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Entry Level Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of ...

State of Iowa

Staff Engineer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$66K - $103K/yr

In this entry-level engineering role, you'll work under the guidance of experienced Professional Engineers while supporting the planning, design, and delivery of highway improvement projects that ...

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Entry Level Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$28.2K

$65.1K

$110.8K

How much do entry level engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering 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 the difference between Entry Level Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; often requires licensure for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level positions in offices, labs, or manufacturing plantsDesign, analysis, testing in offices, labs, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, construction, technology companiesManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Entry Level Engineering typically involves foundational engineering tasks with a bachelor's degree, often in various disciplines, and is used across many industries. Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, often requiring specific technical skills and licensure for advanced roles. Both roles share similar work environments but differ in specialization and scope.

How to 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, certifications, or personal projects can improve your chances, and demonstrating proficiency with tools like CAD or programming languages can be beneficial for entry-level candidates.

What is an entry level engineer?

Entry level engineering jobs are positions designed for recent graduates or individuals with limited professional experience in the engineering field. These roles typically involve assisting senior engineers with projects, performing basic technical tasks, and gaining hands-on experience in a specific engineering discipline such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. Entry level engineers often receive on-the-job training and mentoring to develop their skills and advance their careers. These roles serve as a foundation for future growth and specialization within the engineering industry.

How to get hired as an entry-level engineer?

To get hired as an entry-level engineer, candidates should obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, develop practical skills through internships or projects, and demonstrate proficiency with industry tools and software. Building a strong resume that highlights technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience increases employment prospects. Certifications such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) can also enhance job opportunities.

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 solid educational background in engineering fundamentals, strong problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in mathematics, usually obtained through a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, industry-specific modeling programs, and basic project management systems is typically expected. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you integrate into engineering teams and adapt to new challenges. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate technical work, smooth collaboration, and ongoing professional development in a dynamic engineering environment.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level engineer?

As an entry-level engineer, you’ll typically begin by supporting more senior engineers on a variety of projects, which may include drafting designs, running simulations, conducting data analysis, or assisting with testing and troubleshooting. Your daily tasks will often involve collaborating with team members, participating in meetings, and learning industry-specific tools and software. Over time, you'll gain more responsibility, such as managing small project components or communicating directly with clients. This role is designed to help you build foundational technical skills while gaining exposure to different aspects of engineering within your organization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineering jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Engineering jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Engineering job openings:
Entry Level Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,149 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Engineering - Project Engineer 1

efcoforms

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Purpose

The Project Engineer 1 is an entry-level engineering position that prepares visual representations of EFCO products for safe and efficient use in manufacturing and construction. This role supports other engineering positions within EFCO and has no direct reports.

Key Responsibilities

Drafting and Engineering (75%)

  • Draft preliminary layouts and engineer contracted and presale projects.
  • Prepare equipment requirements for projects.
  • Under guidance, supervise specific project tasks and collaborate with other key personnel to ensure project requirements are met.
  • Apply mathematics and technical skills to ensure engineering designs align with EFCO’s Quality standards and customer needs. 

Training and Standards (25%)

  • Complete all required training, including EFCO’s core value training, policies, procedures, and forming systems.
  • Learn and apply EFCO’s drafting and engineering standards.
  • Leverage effective oral and written communication to ensure adoption of standards while fostering Innovation in engineering practices.

Additional duties may be assigned to meet organizational goals and priorities. Duties and responsibilities, as required by business necessity, may be added, deleted, or changed at any time at the discretion of management, formally or informally, either verbally or in writing, to meet organizational goals and priorities.

 

 

Core Competencies

  • Communication: Communicates effectively verbally and in writing, producing clear, concise, and professional content and adapting style to audience and setting.
  • Mathematics: Applies basic and advanced math skills accurately in job-related functions. 
  • Technical Skills: Proficiently uses job-specific tools, systems, and procedures to perform tasks effectively.
  • Professionalism: Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and a respectful approach to all work and interactions.
  • Adaptability: Adjusts quickly and effectively to changing circumstances, priorities, and feedback.

 

 

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering required.
  • Experience: Up to 2 years of professional or construction experience.
  • Certification(s) and License(s): Must obtain FE (EIT certification or international equivalent if available) before advancing to higher engineering levels.
  • Computer Skills: Familiarity with Autodesk Revit and Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD).
  • Other Requirements: Problem-solving skills, organizational abilities, and PC proficiency are a plus. Some travel is necessary.

 

 

Working Arrangement

  • This role will work 100% onsite at our Des Moines, IA office.

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