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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Software Test Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a growth-oriented entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using ...

RFA Engineering

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using ...

Three Point Solutions

Quality Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$37 - $39/hr

Experience in a union environment Role Scope * Entry-level quality engineering role * Supports fabrication and welding operations * Works with production, quality, and engineering teams * Focuses on ...

RFA Engineering

Design Engineer - Electrical Systems

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using ...

RFA Engineering

Vehicle Dynamics Simulation Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of related work experience, but entry level being considered ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsEngineer JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in Dubuque, IA

Entry Level Engineer information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$28.3K

$65.4K

$111.3K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Dubuque, IA is $65,407.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 personal projects, and learning industry tools like CAD or MATLAB, can improve your chances. Certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can also demonstrate your commitment and knowledge to employers.

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.

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 specific technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or industry-standard tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fields, and the limited availability of entry-level roles can make the job search challenging for new graduates.

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 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.

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.

More about Entry Level Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA? For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA are:
What cities near Dubuque, IA are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs? Cities near Dubuque, IA with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Dubuque, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,407 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Software Test Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$65K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking a growth-oriented entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Software Test Engineer
RFA Engineering is seeking a Software Test Engineer to support validation and verification efforts for advanced equipment systems. This role will focus on executing and developing test strategies across both software and hardware components to ensure product reliability, quality, and performance. The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, and thrives in a collaborative engineering environment.
Responsibilities
  • Execute product validation and verification testing to support reliability, cost reduction, and overall product quality across development and continuous improvement programs.
  • Define, design, execute, and document test plans for new product designs, including both software and hardware components.
  • Support testing activities in lab and real-world environments, including bench, simulator, and machine-based testing.
  • Analyze data from supplier, laboratory, and field testing to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Develop comprehensive test reports that clearly document procedures, results, and conclusions.
  • Participate in software code reviews to support quality and maintainability.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams to support product development and validation efforts.
  • Travel occasionally to support field testing, data collection, and issue resolution (typically 0-10%, up to 25% as needed, including potential international travel).
  • Provide on-site engineering support in a team-oriented environment.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field (Software, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, or similar).
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Proven problem-solving ability and analytical thinking skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment with strong collaboration.
  • Demonstrated initiative, ambition, and willingness to learn.
  • General knowledge of off-road equipment or machinery systems.
  • Ability to operate machinery or heavy equipment during testing.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.

Desired Skills and Attributes
  • High attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and quality.
  • Hands-on troubleshooting and problem-solving experience.
  • Strong technical documentation and reporting skills.
  • Experience working with cross-functional or diverse engineering teams.
  • Mechanical aptitude gained through professional, educational, or personal experience.
  • Experience with design, testing, and/or engineering analysis.
  • Ability to interpret software requirements and technical specifications.
  • Ability to read and understand electrical and hydraulic schematics.
  • Working knowledge of hydraulic and hydrostatic systems, including plumbing and routing.
  • Experience with off-road vehicle systems or equipment.

What Makes You Stand Out
  • Experience with equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, or repair.
  • Prior experience operating construction or agricultural equipment.
  • Hands-on testing experience including setup, execution, analysis, and reporting.
  • Knowledge of CAN communication systems.
  • Experience with MATLAB.
  • Programming experience in C and/or C++.
  • Experience with vehicle network tools such as CANalyzer or CANape (e.g., Vehicle Spy).
  • Familiarity with EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) testing.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position
Pay Range: $65,000-$110,000 - Commensurate with experience.
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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