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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Lafayette, IN (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

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

Supplier Quality Engineer

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

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 ...

Actalent

Quality Assurance Assistant

Lafayette, IN

$20 - $22/hr

... Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Lafayette, IN. Pay and ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

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All JobsEngineer JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in Lafayette, IN

Entry Level Engineer information

See Lafayette, IN salary details

$28.9K

$66.9K

$113.7K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Lafayette, IN is $66,852.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,600.00 and $75,700.00 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 Lafayette, IN? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN? For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN are:
What cities near Lafayette, IN are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs? Cities near Lafayette, IN with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Lafayette, IN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,736 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Lafayette, IN • On-site

$65K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 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 an Entry Level 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.
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff in the development of large diesel or gas engine sub-systems. Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, and product health in large engine systems. The work will be highly collaborative with both internal customers and external suppliers.
Responsibilities
  • Participate in design, development, build, and validation related to diesel and natural gas engines.
  • Collaborate with design teams to develop new engine systems used in Oil and Gas applications.
  • Work with validation and system engineers to ensure completion of FMEAs and activities needed to fully validate engine designs.
  • Support engine performance development and validation in test cells
  • Improve and maintain Bill of Material (BOM) tracking tool for upcoming, current, and field test engines.
  • Coordinate the completion of Virtual Design Review Audits (VDRAs) for NPI proto and pilot builds.
  • Responsible for prove design parts management, ordering, and shipping to support prototype builds, lab or field testing.
  • Track and resolve issues discovered during build and test processes.
  • Manage releasing and procurement status for new component designs.
  • Create and update Teamcenter engine arrangement (ARC) models.
  • Work with factory technicians to assemble prototype and field follow engines.
  • Coordinate virtual & on engine safety and serviceability audits to be completed and complete the appropriate follow-up activities that result.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Marketing, Purchasing, etc.) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project need (up to ~5%)

Requirements
  • BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience.
  • Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes.
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment or engines.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$78,000 - 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
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • 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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