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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Commissioning Engineer 2

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Position Overview A Commissioning Engineer 2 within dbHMS will have the capacity to expand our team, lead projects, and mentor entry-level engineers while they analyze buildings and how integrated ...

Commissioning Engineer 2

Davenport, IA ยท Hybrid

$70K - $90K/yr

Position Overview A Commissioning Engineer 2 within dbHMS will have the capacity to expand our team, lead projects, and mentor entry-level engineers while they analyze buildings and how integrated ...

Position OverviewThe Engineer I - Civil is an entry-level position for professional engineering work, focused on developing foundational knowledge and skills. This individual performs assignments ...

New

Position Overview The Engineer I - Structural is an entry-level position for professional engineering work, focused on developing foundational knowledge and skills. This individual performs ...

New

Position Overview The Engineer I - Civil is an entry-level position for professional engineering work, focused on developing foundational knowledge and skills. This individual performs assignments ...

New

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA ยท 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 ...

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA ยท 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 ...

At DSI, we value growth from within-many of our leaders started in entry-level positions just like ... engineering expertise, and proprietary software solutions-all designed to drive growth and ...

At DSI, we value growth from within--many of our leaders started in entry-level positions just like ... engineering expertise, and proprietary software solutions--all designed to drive growth and ...

At DSI, we value growth from within-many of our leaders started in entry-level positions just like ... engineering expertise, and proprietary software solutions-all designed to drive growth and ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$28.2K

$65.1K

$110.8K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Iowa is $65,149.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $73,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level engineer?

An entry-level engineer designs, builds, and maintains the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. All engineers start out in an entry-level position with fewer responsibilities until they gain work experience. Many start gaining experience through an internship or apprenticeship before moving into an entry-level position. An entry-level engineer job description relates to all of the education requirements, skills, detailed tasks, responsibilities that a company or organization requires for their specific engineering job. For example, civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Electrical engineers design, monitor, and test electrical systems.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as CAD tools, MATLAB, or project management platforms, as well as relevant internships or certifications, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure you can contribute to projects, adapt to organizational needs, and grow professionally in the engineering field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level engineers often face challenges such as adapting to new tools and technologies, understanding company-specific processes, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. It's also common to navigate working on multidisciplinary teams and learning effective communication with colleagues from different backgrounds. With guidance from mentors and proactive engagement, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that contribute to professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships helpfulBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure optional for some roles
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, manufacturing plants, construction sites, labsDesign, testing, manufacturing, research and development
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions across various engineering sectorsMid to senior roles, but entry-level positions are common in manufacturing and design firms

Entry Level Engineers typically have a bachelor's degree and gain hands-on experience through internships. They work in diverse environments like design firms and manufacturing plants. Mechanical Engineers, while often requiring similar credentials, may start in entry-level roles but are more specialized in mechanical systems. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but the term 'Entry Level Engineer' is broader, encompassing various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering.

How do I get into entry level engineering with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often require a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Gaining practical skills through internships, co-op programs, or certifications in tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB can improve your chances; demonstrating problem-solving abilities and a willingness to learn are also important for employers.

What is the easiest entry level engineer job to get into?

Entry-level engineering roles such as manufacturing, technician, or quality assurance positions are often considered easier to obtain due to lower experience requirements and high demand. These jobs typically require basic technical skills, familiarity with tools or software relevant to the field, and sometimes a relevant certification or associate degree.

Why is it so hard to find an entry-level engineer job?

Entry-level engineering jobs are competitive because employers often seek candidates with relevant internships, project experience, or technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or specific tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree and sometimes certifications, which can limit the pool of qualified applicants and make entry into the field more challenging.

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

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,149 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Entry Level Vertical Structures Engineer - Buildings

Snyder & Associates

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is a well-established civil and structural engineering consulting firm delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions to public and private clients throughout the Midwest. As communities continue to grow and infrastructure evolves, we're expanding Shuck-Britson (SBI), our integrated structural engineering team.

SBI has built its reputation by solving complex structural challenges with practical, experience-driven engineering. Today, as Snyder's dedicated structural engineering team, SBI combines decades of specialized expertise with the resources of a full-service engineering firm. Our engineers partner with transportation agencies, municipalities, businesses, architects, and contractors on projects ranging from bridge design and rehabilitation to buildings, specialty structures, and historic preservation.

We're looking for an Entry-Level Structural Engineer to join our vertical structures team in Des Moines. In this role, you'll contribute to the structural analysis, design, and specification development of building projects while working alongside experienced engineers who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of structural professionals. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to build technical expertise, gain hands-on project experience, and grow within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.


What Youโ€™ll Do:

Assignments would involve assisting project engineers in the analysis, conceptualization, design and construction of projects involving vertical structure projects throughout Iowa and bordering states.

The successful candidate can expect to have regular interaction with other engineers, support staff and clients as required. Clients include both public and private entities.


What Weโ€™re Looking For:

  • Minimum of a BS Degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis on structures; Masters degree in Structural Engineering a preferred.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) Certification preferred or the ability to earn within a reasonable timeframe
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills
  • Ability to manage multiple complex projects and tasks concurrently
  • Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
  • Clear written and verbal communication abilities
  • Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment

Why Snyder & Associates?

  • Ownership at Snyder & Associates is held by employee shareholders, fostering a culture of accountability and long-term commitment
  • Local decision-making โ€” not driven by private equity or absentee investors
  • Meaningful projects that serve Iowa communities and strengthen regional infrastructure
  • Strong relationships with public and private clients
  • Opportunities for technical leadership, project ownership, and continued professional growth
  • Stable, respected firm with deep roots in Iowa
  • Supportive culture that values teamwork, integrity, and long-term partnerships

 

Life At Snyder

Snyder & Associates has grown to become a large regional civil engineering and planning firm in the Midwest. With thirteen office locations in five states, the communities we serve are the same places we proudly call home. For us, itโ€™s about more than just the project at hand. Itโ€™s about improving community quality of life, which is why 94 percent of our existing clients continue to trust us as an extension of their staff. Watch the Snyder & Associates About Us Video to learn more. Youโ€™ll also find a welcoming, familyoriented atmosphere that encourages connection, celebrates achievements, and offers opportunities to engage with the community and bring engineering to life outside the office, empowering you to grow your career while making a difference in the places we proudly call home.

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify employer.