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Entry Level Design Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Origin Design Co

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

IA · On-site

Origin Design is currently hiring a full-time Entry-Level Civil Engineer capable of working across multiple teams and disciplines. This position will work under seasoned engineers to hone their ...

Three Point Solutions

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Ottumwa, IA 52501 Duration: 24 Months (Possibility of Extension/Conversion) Shift: 1st Shift (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Job Summary Entry-level product engineering role focused on mechanical design support ...

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$121K - $145K/yr

Ottumwa, IA 52501 Duration: 24 Months (Possibility of Extension/Conversion) Shift: 1st Shift (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Job Summary Entry-level product engineering role focused on mechanical design support ...

Shive Hattery Group

Design Professional

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

... Design Professional with approximately 3 years of professional experience. This new team member ... Required Experience: * Entry level position and applies to individuals with approximately 3 years ...

Palmer Group

Product Design Engineer

Manchester, IA

$70K - $100K/yr

You will be responsible for the design and support of new product development and existing product ... From entry-level positions to professional and executive-level openings, we work with companies of ...

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Entry Level Design information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$21

$27

How much do entry level design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level design in Iowa is $21.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level design job?

An entry level design job is a starting position in the design industry, typically suited for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles often involve assisting senior designers, creating basic design assets, and learning industry tools and workflows. Entry level designers may work in fields such as graphic design, web design, or industrial design, and are expected to have a foundational understanding of design principles and software like Adobe Creative Suite. The goal is to build practical skills, gain experience, and develop a professional portfolio to advance in the field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level design professional expect in their first year?

Entry-level design professionals typically work on a variety of supporting tasks, such as preparing drafts, creating visual assets, and assisting with layout or branding projects. They often collaborate closely with senior designers and art directors, gaining exposure to client feedback and the revision process. While responsibilities may start with smaller assignments, there are frequent opportunities to contribute ideas during team brainstorming sessions and to gradually take on more complex projects as skills develop. This hands-on experience is crucial for building a strong portfolio and understanding real-world design workflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Designer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, proficiency in visual communication, and a relevant degree or coursework in graphic, web, or industrial design. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and basic knowledge of design systems or prototyping platforms is important. Strong attention to detail, creativity, collaboration, and openness to feedback set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities enable designers to produce high-quality work, adapt to team needs, and grow in a fast-evolving creative field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Design vs Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level DesignGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant courseworkBachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field
Work EnvironmentInternships, junior roles, freelance projectsDesign agencies, corporate marketing teams, freelance
Industry UsageEntry positions in various industriesCreative and marketing industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in designEntry-level design roles and career path

Entry Level Design typically refers to initial roles requiring basic skills and minimal experience, often involving internships or freelance work. Graphic Designer is a more specific job title that usually requires a formal degree and involves creating visual content for clients or companies. While both roles serve as starting points in the design industry, Entry Level Design is broader, encompassing various entry positions, whereas Graphic Designer is a specialized role within the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Design jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Design job openings:

Entry Level Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,913 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

Dubuque, IA

Origin Design
Specialized Design Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Origin Designexternal

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

DUBUQUE OR DAVENPORT, IOWA


Origin Design is a full-service professional design firm offering architecture, engineering, field services and land survey. We deliver impactful, sustainable solutions to help the clients and communities we work with thrive and grow. 


Origin Design is currently hiring a full-time Entry-Level Civil Engineer capable of working across multiple teams and disciplines. This position will work under seasoned engineers to hone their design skills while working to serve our municipal and county clients. 


We are looking for candidates that are excited about planning and design in the transportation, water resources, municipal, and utility infrastructure disciplines. The preferred candidate is one excited to work on diverse projects including: trails, bridges, urban/rural roadways, wastewater and stormwater collection and conveyance systems, as well as water distribution systems. Knowledge of, or willingness to learn software and skills related to traffic design, hydraulic and hydrology for structure sizing, and accessibility upgrades is required. This position will allow the individual to grow their knowledge base under highly skilled engineers while figuring out which parts of civil engineering they love and want to specialize in. 


Origin Design emphasizes training and professional development to facilitate personal and professional growth in your career. We've worked hard to develop a culture of collaboration and position our employees for success. If you join our team, we will help you grow your skills and encourage your creativity. Your future starts here. #itstartshere #origincrew


Position Responsibilities.

  • Support construction phase services, primarily in the field in an on-site observation role. Additional duties will include review of shop drawings, submittals, and responses to contractor questions, as appropriate for experience level. 
  • Assist Project Managers and Project Engineers in the planning, design and delivery of municipal, water resources, and transportation engineering projects. 
  • Support coordination with municipal and county clients to understand project needs and contribute to successful project outcomes. 
  • Assist with the preparation of engineering plans, specifications, cost estimates, and contract documents. 
  • Perform engineering design tasks under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer. 
  • Assist in with engineering calculations, quantity takeoffs, and preparation of technical reports. 
  • Ensure completeness, accuracy, and organization of design-related forms, calculations and documentation. 
  • Coordinate with internal project team members and assist with interdisciplinary collaboration. 

Position Requirements.

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering or related engineering discipline. 
  • Engineering Intern Certification, or ability to get one within 6 months.
  • 0-4 years of relevant engineering experience, including internships or co-op experience.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications.

Preferred Position Qualifications.

  • Prior experience or internship exposure to municipal, water resources, or transportation projects. 
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Civil3D or similar design software. 

Benefits.

  • Work-life balance. 
  • Flexible work schedule.
  • Competitive compensation package.
  • Discretionary bonuses.
  • PTO.
  • Paid holidays.
  • Paid Parental Leave.
  • ESOP Employee Ownership.
  • Strong health care plans.
  • Life insurance coverage.
  • 401k program with employer match.
  • Full Employee Assistance Program.
  • Health Savings Account with employer match.
  • Continuing education.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Relocation assistance.

How to Apply.

Cover letters and resumes can be uploaded to: 


https://origindesign.com/careers.


Origin Design is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. 

Apply