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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Field Test Technician - Onsite

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Electrical Engineering Technology, Diesel Power Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology ... Will consider more entry level candidates recently coming from an Ag. Tech school or similar.

New

Calibration Tech is an entry level position with no certification required. The purpose for an ... engineers. External candidates will receive a $1,000 sign on bonus. What You Will Do * Learn how to ...

Software Test Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a growth-oriented entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of ... This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing ...

Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world ... Work in dynamic environments-manufacturing floors, labs, and more-with occasional lifting (up to 60 ...

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing ...

This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing ... Ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of related work experience, but entry level being considered.

Calibration Tech is an entry level position with no certification required. The purpose for an ... engineers. External candidates will receive a $1,000 sign on bonus. What You Will Do * Learn how to ...

Position Highlights In-office position in Des Moines, IA Open to both entry-level and experienced ... From engineering and design to manufacturing and field support, we help customers turn vision into ...

Be Seen First

Experience with CNC programming (G-code or CAM software) is a plus * Strong understanding of ... To lead the industry in manufacturing of critically machined, close tolerance components, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$29

$47

How much do entry level manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing engineer in Iowa is $29.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, process improvement, and project planning in manufacturing settingsOperating machinery, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, engineering firms, production plantsFactories, production lines, manufacturing facilities

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineers focus on designing processes, improving efficiency, and supporting production planning, often requiring an engineering degree. Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What does an entry level manufacturing engineer do?

An Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes within a production facility. They work closely with senior engineers and production teams to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing operations. Typical tasks may include analyzing workflow, troubleshooting equipment issues, implementing process improvements, and supporting new product introductions. This role often involves hands-on problem solving and the use of engineering principles to ensure smooth and cost-effective manufacturing. Entry level engineers are also expected to learn company-specific processes and industry regulations.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering (usually mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing), strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and foundational knowledge of manufacturing processes. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and process improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma is highly valued. Effective communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and identifying process improvements. These skills and qualities are important because they enable engineers to optimize production efficiency, ensure product quality, and support continuous improvement in manufacturing environments.

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

Entry level manufacturing engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, learning to troubleshoot equipment issues quickly, and understanding complex manufacturing processes. Balancing hands-on problem solving with documentation and process improvement tasks can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and are typically supported by mentorship from senior engineers and collaboration with cross-functional teams. As you gain experience, you'll become more confident in identifying inefficiencies and proposing solutions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in IA? For Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,174 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Software Engineer - Displays

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 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 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.

Application Developer - Display Systems

This position is associated with the design and development of advanced system displays and the applications each display would contain. Various roles are available that require use of C++, Qt/QML, and virtual machines that run Linux based operating systems. The developer will be creating robust operating system driven software for advanced displays in conjunction with the display systems team and product testing team.

** Note: This is not an embedded software engineering opportunity.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and maintain software applications and frameworks for Linux-based operating systems that power advanced machine display systems.
  • Implement features, graphical interfaces, and system controls using C++, and Qt/QML.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, systems, and test engineers to define software requirements and system behavior.
  • Work within an Agile development environment to plan, implement, test, and deliver iterative software improvements.
  • Perform peer code reviews, troubleshoot issues, and provide solutions to both software and hardware interface challenges.
  • Develop and execute unit and system-level tests to validate software functionality and performance.
  • Utilize modern development tools such as VS Code, Git, and Linux-based build environments to manage and deliver quality software releases.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of software processes, tools, and practices.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Proficiency in Object Oriented Programming. (C++, Java, or C# Preferred)
  • Experience developing in Linux environments using VS Code or similar IDEs.
  • Practical experience with Git or equivalent version control systems.
  • Understanding of UI/UX development principles and application design.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills for both software and system-level issues.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, including cross-functional and international collaboration.
  • Ability to interpret requirements and translate them into efficient, maintainable software solutions

Desired Skills and Attributes

  • Experience with 2D/3D graphics rendering and visualization.

  • Knowledge of OpenGL or OpenCV for display rendering or image processing.

  • Working knowledge of JavaScript or Python for scripting or automation.
  • Experience developing graphical user interfaces using Qt/QML.

  • Exposure to Full Stack Development concepts and frameworks.

  • Familiarity with CAN protocol or other machine communication interfaces.

  • Understanding of MQTT or similar message-based communication systems.

  • Passion for creating innovative software solutions that enhance operator experience in rugged, real-world environments.

  • Collaborative mindset with a proactive approach to learning new technologies and tools.

VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this role.

Salary Range: $65,000-$95,000/year commensurate with experience

Why work for RFA?

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided machine design and engineering services to industry leading customers dating back to 1943. Our primary focus is project based product 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, MN, Satellite office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.

We Offer Competitive Benefits:

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plans for Medical Expenses and Dependent Care
  • Extra Time Bonuses
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday Pay
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

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