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Entry Level Design Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

State of Iowa

Staff Engineer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$66K - $103K/yr

In this entry-level engineering role, you'll work under the guidance of experienced Professional Engineers while supporting the planning, design, and delivery of highway improvement projects that ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Industrial

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... design, material selection, estimating, and creation of proposals, scope letters, contracts, etc ... Project Engineer I: * Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. * Offers ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Mechanical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

... design, material selection, estimating, and creation of proposals, scope letters, contracts, etc ... Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. o Offers information, helps with ...

QA Graphics

Be Seen First

Vector/SVG Production Designer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

This is a production focused design role for someone with strong Adobe Illustrator skills, clean ... Ability to take feedback and apply it consistently * Entry level candidates will be considered if ...

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Entry Level Design Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$29.3K

$67.8K

$115.4K

How much do entry level design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level design engineer in Ames, IA is $67,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $76,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level Design Engineer do?

An Entry Level Design Engineer assists with creating and developing designs for products, structures, or systems, often under the supervision of senior engineers. They typically use computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft blueprints, modify existing designs, and perform basic engineering calculations. Their role may also involve collaborating with manufacturing teams, preparing documentation, and ensuring designs meet required standards and specifications. This position provides hands-on experience and learning opportunities for those starting their engineering careers.

What are some common challenges new Entry Level Design Engineers face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Level Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to industry-specific software, understanding project requirements, and effectively communicating design ideas to both technical and non-technical team members. Building strong relationships with mentors, proactively seeking feedback, and dedicating time to learn design tools and standards can help ease the transition. Embracing a growth mindset and actively participating in team discussions can also accelerate learning and confidence in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and deliver accurate designs. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable and innovative engineering solutions that meet project requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in Ames, IA? For Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Entry Level Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Entry Level Design Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,849 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Design Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Bolton & Menk, Inc

Ames, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Bolton & Menk rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 443 rated engineering

Job description

Bolton & Menk has an exciting opportunity for a Design Engineer, EIT, to join our Water/Wastewater team in our Ames office. As a Top Workplace, this is a fantastic chance to work with a talented team of professionals and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. With over 75 years of experience, Bolton & Menk specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions across the Midwest, Southeast, and beyond.

In this entry level civil engineering role, we are looking to add an EIT who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities! The majority of your time will be spent assisting project managers and project engineers in design and construction phase activities on Water/Wastewater projects. This position is open to December 2025 or May 2026 graduates or an experienced EIT with 1-3 years of experience.

What You Will Be Doing:

  • Assist Project Engineers with design and construction phase activities on municipal projects
  • Perform basic design computations, preliminary layout and design, research and prepare rough drafts of preliminary reports and feasibility studies
  • Assist with project plans and specifications, preparing cost and quantity take-off estimates
  • Construction observation activities may include performing construction staking, performing construction administration duties such as documenting activities, measuring and testing, providing general oversight, and interacting with contractors, sub-contractors, residents and City staff.

What We Are Looking For:

  • Master of Science or Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering from an ABET accredited post-secondary institution with an emphasis on water and/or wastewater treatment.
  • Certified Engineer-in-Training or able to obtain within 12 months of hire
  • Experience with water or wastewater treatment
  • Working knowledge and skills in CAD and design software. (i.e. AutoCAD Civil3D, REVIT)
  • Possess a valid drivers license as travel to various facilities and job sites may be required

Bolton & Menk will currently not be providing visa sponsorship or Optional Practical Training Extensions for STEM Students. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the US at the start of employment without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.

WHY BOLTON & MENK?
Bolton & Menk, Inc. specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions. Since 1949, we have been committed to improving quality of life through engineering excellence and client satisfaction. From advocating for our communities to designing their dreams to finding funding; we take pride in our work because we live in these same communities. Today, Bolton & Menk has more than 1,000 employees throughout more than 40 locations in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Colorado, North Carolina and South Carolina providing services to more than 400 communities and agencies. Learn more about our history here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/about-us/

OUR BENEFITS
At Bolton & Menk, we value our people and provide an exceptional Total Compensation and Benefits Package to protect our most valuable asset. We are committed to the well-being of our employees and their families. Perks of being a Bolton & Menk employee include peace of mind with our benefits package and competitive compensation plan, flexible schedules, and career development opportunities. Learn more here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/careers

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Bolton & Menk does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party agencies in response to Bolton & Menk job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team is required after any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team.

It is our responsibility and privilege to embrace the diversity of people, thoughts, and experiences necessary to develop infrastructure systems that serve all people. Bolton & Menk, Inc., is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer including disability and vets.

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