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Entry Level Mechatronics Engineering Jobs in Iowa

RFA Engineering

Vehicle Dynamics Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Bachelors of Science in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering, Physics or equivalent degree ... Ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of related work experience, but entry level being considered.

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Entry Level Mechatronics Engineering information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Mechatronics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Mechatronics Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical engineering, electronics, computer programming, and automation, usually backed by a degree in mechatronics or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC programming, MATLAB, and industry-standard robotics platforms is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help distinguish top performers in this position. These skills enable engineers to design, troubleshoot, and optimize integrated systems that are essential for modern automation and manufacturing processes.

What jobs can I get with a mechatronic engineering degree?

Entry-level mechatronics engineering graduates can pursue roles such as automation engineer, robotics technician, control systems engineer, or manufacturing engineer. These positions typically involve working with robotics, embedded systems, sensors, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in industrial or research environments.

What are entry level mechatronics engineers?

Entry level mechatronics engineers are professionals who have recently graduated or are new to the field of mechatronics engineering. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced engineers and are responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of smart mechanical systems that integrate electronics, control systems, and software. Their roles often include tasks such as creating prototypes, troubleshooting problems, and supporting the manufacturing process. Entry level positions provide valuable hands-on experience and a foundation for career growth in industries like robotics, automotive, and manufacturing.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with senior roles and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level mechatronics engineers earn significantly less, some senior or specialized engineers in high-demand industries such as aerospace, robotics, or automation can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, often through bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying sectors or leadership roles.

What types of projects and daily tasks can an entry-level mechatronics engineer expect to work on?

As an entry-level mechatronics engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects, such as assisting in the design, assembly, and testing of automated machinery or robotic systems. Your daily tasks may include troubleshooting electromechanical components, developing and running simulations, supporting senior engineers with data analysis, and collaborating with both mechanical and electrical teams. Often, you will work in multidisciplinary groups, giving you valuable exposure to different engineering fields and practical problem-solving. This role provides an excellent foundation for learning industry standards and advancing your technical expertise.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mechatronics Engineering vs Entry Level Electrical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Mechatronics EngineeringEntry Level Electrical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechatronics, Robotics, or related fieldBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, automation, robotics labsPower systems, electronics, telecommunications
Industry UsageRobotics, automation, product developmentPower generation, electronics, communications

Entry Level Mechatronics Engineering focuses on integrating mechanical, electrical, and software systems, often in robotics and automation. Entry Level Electrical Engineering emphasizes electrical systems, circuits, and power. Both roles require similar foundational degrees but differ in specialization and typical work environments.

Is it hard to find a job as a mechatronics engineer?

Entry level mechatronics engineering jobs are generally accessible for candidates with relevant skills in robotics, automation, and programming, especially if they have internships or certifications. Job availability can vary by industry demand and geographic location, but strong technical skills and practical experience improve employment prospects.
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Entry Level Mechatronics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechatronics Engineering job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.
Simulation Engineer - System Dynamics

Simulation Engineer - System Dynamics

RFA Engineering

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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 a growth-oriented 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.
Job Description
This position requires aptitude in support of Dynamic Systems Modeling (DSM) and analysis as it pertains to whole machine configurations. Through the creation, refinement, and execution of system models, this position will provide analytical support to product development and design.
  • Provide direct analytical support for one or more product groups.
  • Develop a growing understanding of product function.
  • Lead in the development of measurable dynamic performance specifications using simulation and other engineering analysis methods.
  • Work with design teams to develop virtual simulation models that can be used to verify designs analytically.
  • Develop dynamic system analysis plans for specific product development programs.
  • Report results using a standardized reporting system.
  • Document processes that can be used to continually improve our ability to analytically develop and verify our product designs.
  • Contribute to Product and Component Technical Specifications, Design Guidelines, and Engineering Analysis Procedures.

Technical Responsibilities
  • Understand the dynamic interactions of hydraulic systems, linkages, rigid bodies, engines, drivetrains, and control systems.
  • Support the development of robust control strategies for product innovation and differentiation.
  • Use Engineering analysis tools to assess complex hydro-electro-mechanical systems.
  • Maintain models using programming languages and concepts like Object Oriented Programming.
  • Contribute to the specification/selection of components and subsystems for optimal machine level performance.
  • Generate objective machine level dynamic performance objectives that capture ambiguous and/or subjective operator and customer feedback.
  • Support the vision for how analysis tools can change the way Design and PV&V Engineering work is done.
  • Resolve stability issues that can arise from the above, but that cannot be analyzed using linear theory due to the nonlinear nature of both the primitive elements and the subsystem and machine level interactions.
  • Generate mathematical models for previously un-modeled phenomena.
  • Analyze simulation results to distinguish between characteristics of the design and artifacts of the mathematical models.

Requirements
  • Bachelors of Science in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering, Physics or equivalent degree.
  • Masters of Science with a related concentration in System Dynamics would be ideal.
  • Experience with hydraulics, controls, powertrain, and electrical systems beneficial.
  • Experience with MATLAB, Simscape, Simulink, Simscape Fluids, Simscape Multibody is desirable.
  • Experience in a production environment working with cross functional teams.
  • Experience with operating agriculture equipment or off-highway mobile equipment.
  • Ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of related work experience, but entry level being considered.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$90,000 - 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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