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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Electrical Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies * Excellent ...

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Mechanical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

Project Engineer I: o Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. o Offers information, helps with coordination and preparation, assists with analyzing and compiling data. o May help ...

ACI Mechanical

Laborer

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service ... This is an entry-level position. Duties: * Transport construction materials and equipment to and ...

ACI Mechanical

Laborer

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service ... This is an entry-level position. Duties: * Transport construction materials and equipment to and ...

Zobility

Be Seen First

Mechanical Manufacturing Technician

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

* Mechanical Manufacturing Technician I is an entry level position with no certification required ... or engineers. Responsibilities: * Learn how to set up and operate test stand to check nozzles ...

Signal Energy

Field Engineer - Iowa

Coggon, IA · On-site

The Field Engineer (FE) is an entry-level, field-based position responsible for the support and ... Bachelor's degree in construction management, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical ...

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 ... Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Weld, or Quality Engineering preferred Work ...

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Laborer

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service ... This is an entry-level position. Duties: * Transport construction materials and equipment to and ...

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Laborer

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service ... This is an entry-level position. Duties: * Transport construction materials and equipment to and ...

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Laborer

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service ... This is an entry-level position. Duties: * Transport construction materials and equipment to and ...

RFA Engineering

Vehicle Dynamics Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Use Engineering analysis tools to assess complex hydro-electro-mechanical systems. * Contribute to ... Ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of related work experience, but entry level being considered.

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Laborer

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service ... This is an entry-level position. Duties: * Transport construction materials and equipment to and ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$31

$51

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Iowa is $31.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.29 and $35.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level mechanical engineer do?

An entry level mechanical engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical devices, such as engines, tools, and machines. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to learn industry practices and gain hands-on experience. Their tasks often include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, creating prototypes, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. Entry level engineers also help prepare technical reports and documentation while collaborating with other engineering teams.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level mechanical engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level mechanical engineer, you will typically be involved in a variety of projects that support more senior engineers. Your tasks may include creating and revising CAD drawings, assisting with prototype development, conducting basic calculations and simulations, and performing hands-on testing in the lab or on the production floor. You'll also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and design. This exposure helps you build foundational technical skills while learning effective teamwork and communication in a professional engineering environment.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to project needs. These abilities are crucial for delivering accurate designs, meeting project deadlines, and integrating smoothly into engineering teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer?

AspectEntry Level Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly internship experienceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing, and project collaboration in engineering teamsCreating detailed drawings and models, often using CAD software, in design departments
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveDesign firms, manufacturing companies, product development
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Mechanical Engineers focus on applying engineering principles to design, analyze, and test mechanical systems, often working on projects from concept to prototype. Mechanical Designers primarily create detailed CAD drawings and models for manufacturing and assembly. While both roles require a mechanical engineering background, engineers typically engage in broader engineering tasks, whereas designers concentrate on detailed design work.

How to get into entry level mechanical engineering with no experience?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions often require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Gaining relevant skills through internships, co-op programs, or personal projects, and learning industry tools like CAD software, can improve your chances; certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) may also be beneficial.
More about Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs

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The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

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Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:

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

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,861 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Electrical Design Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 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.
Electrical Design Engineer
The Electrical Design Engineer is a responsible for creating and developing the layout and design of electrical wire harness systems used in off-highway equipment. They work on the configuration, routing, and integration of wires, connectors, and other electrical components, ensuring efficient and organized assembly.
Job Description
  • Route and develop wiring harnesses while coordinating with cross-functional teams to meet design standards and integration guidelines.
  • Create designs and modify existing designs using Creo, ProCable and Capital Harness
  • Participate in print reviews and formal design reviews to support new product development.
  • Support manufacturing and assembly teams during the build and launch of new model designs.
  • Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve electrical system issues on prototype and production machines.
  • Work with manufacturing and quality engineers to identify improvements to designs
  • Interact with other design teams and the electrical team to coordinate co-effective changes
  • Work with supplier(s) to determine best design practices and components
  • Review and approve two-dimensional harness drawings
  • Participate on a cross functional team and perform design reviews

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Electrical, Mechanical Engineering or related degree
  • 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

Desired Attributes
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; experience (Preferred)
  • Previous experience with Windchill or PDMLink
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment
  • Experience with ProCable
  • Wire harness or cable design for vehicles
  • Experience with Capital Harness Systems (CHS)
  • Read electrical schematics to relate to wire harness designs

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$85,000 - 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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