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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Iowa City, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Engineer information

See Iowa City, IA salary details

$29.4K

$67.9K

$115.5K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Iowa City, IA is $67,870.00, 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 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.
More about Entry Level Engineer jobs

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

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA?

For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA are:

What cities near Iowa City, IA are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Iowa City, IA with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Iowa City, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, and 92% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,870 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Municipal Water Engineer

Muscatine Power and Water

Muscatine, IA • On-site

$65K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

This role focuses on meaningful electric and water transmission and distribution projects that support reliable service to the Muscatine community. You will manage MPW and federally funded initiatives, including the Lead Service Line Replacement Program and water main replacement efforts, while working closely with consultants, contractors, and field crews. You will also coordinate infrastructure improvements with city planners and industrial and commercial customers and contribute to electric system projects such as pole design and work like the riser structure along Mississippi Drive.
Job Purpose
Provide civil engineering support for on-going electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunication projects. Work with internal and external customers to provide engineering guidance and administer contract responsibilities as needed. Work with other departments to schedule work as needed.
This position has a level I and a level II grading based on experience and demonstrated abilities. Tasks are performed at each level based on the individual's knowledge and experience.
Specific Responsibilities
  1. Monitor and coordinate current construction and maintenance projects. Including:
    1. Work with contractors and consultants.
    2. Periodically review and update construction standards and practices.
    3. Apply engineering principles to the evaluation and selection of alternatives.
    4. Assist in the design and layout of electrical transmission and distribution lines, including substation structures.
    5. Assist in the coordination, interpretation, and preparation of electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunication system studies and computer models.
    6. Design and document civil and structural components of projects, including site surveys and inspections, drainage systems, foundations, structures, and roadways.
  2. Coordinate engineering activities with industrial and commercial customers. Activities include MP&W policy, technical details, and general assistance with service installations.:

Other Responsibilities
  1. Assist Chief Operations Engineer with technical problems related to the operation and maintenance of electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunications systems.
  2. Assist with overall system reliability improvement efforts, including the development, population, and use of databases used to track failure, maintenance, and outage issues.
  3. Assist in the development of the annual operating budget and appropriate projections for the department.
  4. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Knowledge
  1. Bachelor's degree in civil engineering preferred.
  2. Civil Engineer I is an entry-level engineering position. Civil Engineer II is a minimum 2 years utility experience preferred.
  3. Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Iowa beneficial for level II position, or working toward certification. If obtained, certification must be maintained while employed in the position.
  4. Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal codes and standards that govern work on electric and water transmission and distribution systems.
  5. Familiarity with CAD and GIS preferred.

Skills
  1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  2. Excellent interpersonal and listening skills, with ability to build productive professional relationships and promote a team atmosphere.
  3. Project management skills.
  4. Good judgment and reasoning skills.
  5. Problem identification, analysis, and solving.
  6. Proficiency with use of Microsoft Office Word at an intermediate level and Excel at an advanced level.

Abilities
  1. Ability to work as part of a team, either as team leader or a member of a team.
  2. Ability to drive results and ensure work is accomplished properly, safely, and in a timely manner.
  3. Ability to work independently, effectively prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adjust work priorities as needed to meet department/organizational objectives.
  4. Ability to develop, read, and interpret drawings, schematics, specifications, and technical manuals.
  5. Ability to distinguish colors.

Other Position Requirements
  1. Must be able to attend work on a regular basis and work extended hours as needed.
  2. Must maintain a method of communication in order to be contacted by MP&W outside normal work hours.

Work Environment
  1. Work environment is primarily in an office environment. Occasional visits to an industrial coal-fired power plant or outside job sites may be required. Fieldwork is completed in all weather conditions.
  2. Must comply with all safety and site rules at all locations.

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