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Entry Level Product Engineer Jobs in Pella, IA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Product Engineer information

See Pella, IA salary details

$53.8K

$146.3K

$208.2K

How much do entry level product engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level product engineer in Pella, IA is $146,293.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,400.00 and $208,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level product engineer do?

An Entry Level Product Engineer assists in designing, developing, testing, and improving products under the supervision of senior engineers. Their work typically involves creating technical drawings, running simulations, conducting experiments, and supporting the product development cycle from concept to production. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure products meet quality, safety, and performance standards while learning industry best practices. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to start their engineering careers and gain hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level product engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Product Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree, such as in mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and industry-standard testing systems is commonly required, along with exposure to design and manufacturing processes. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and respond to evolving project needs. These skills and qualities ensure the ability to contribute to product development, support innovation, and drive project success within a technical environment.

What are some common challenges entry level product engineers face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Level Product Engineers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to company-specific design processes, learning new engineering software, and understanding cross-functional communication between teams like design, manufacturing, and quality assurance. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking mentorship, asking questions, and participating in team meetings can help bridge knowledge gaps. Additionally, taking the initiative to familiarize yourself with the product lifecycle and collaborating closely with experienced engineers can accelerate your growth and confidence in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Engineer vs Associate Product Manager?

AspectEntry Level Product EngineerAssociate Product Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Technical backgroundBachelor's in Business, Marketing, or related field
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, product developmentProduct strategy, cross-functional teams
Industry UsageTech, manufacturing, softwareTech, software, digital products
Common Search IntentTechnical roles, product developmentProduct management, project planning

Entry Level Product Engineers focus on technical development, engineering tasks, and product design, often working closely with engineering teams. Associate Product Managers handle product strategy, user experience, and coordinate between teams to guide product development. While both roles are entry-level, they differ in focus: technical versus strategic. Understanding these differences helps candidates choose the right career path in product development.

Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Engineer job openings in Pella, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,293 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

Process Engineer I - Pella, IA

Pella, IA


Pella Corporation
Building Materials and Garden Equipment Dealers • 5 - 10K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 545 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities across all phases of assigned engineering projects to ensure the objectives of quality, time, and cost are met. Prepares project schedules and reviews cost estimates, compiles required cost and equipment information, and writes appropriation requests.  Responsible for effective communication of engineering information among team members. Follows the structure of the Pella Project Management, Safety, Continuous Improvement and Quality Systems throughout project execution.  Investigates problems and requirements of projects and develops plans for solutions in line with economic, personnel, and environmental considerations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

SCOPE:

Projects and tasks as assigned by supervisor.  Entry level position working within a team environment.

SUPERVISING OTHERS:

Primarily an individual contributor role; may supervise non-exempt and hourly employees

APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE:

Performs work which requires direct application of engineering skills to conventional types of tasks, some having complex features. Begins to develop competency in multiple engineering technologies.  Gains exposure to Pella's application of engineering technologies within the fenestration industry.  Learns how to apply engineering tools to deliver business results.

JUDGMENT:

Evaluates, selects and applies standard engineering and scientific techniques, processes, and criteria, using judgment in making minor adaptations and modifications.  Assignments have clear, specific objectives and require investigation of a limited number of variables.

QUALIFICATIONS 

EXPERIENCE:

Entry level; 1-3 years combined engineering experience.  Previous Co-op experience preferred.

EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT:

Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Math, or relevant Science or combination of education and experience.  Responsible for ongoing development of technical and leadership competencies.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Responsibilities: Transfer, modify, procure, install, and start up manufacturing processes at suppliers and Pella. The scope of this position spans manufacturing, engineering, product development, material and equipment vendors. Collaboration skills are necessary when prioritizing, planning and implementing projects.  The ability to effectively present information, defend a position and address concerns is key to driving execution.  The position is expected to understand and apply safe practices in line with Pella's safety policies.

Supervisory responsibilities: None.     

Work hours: Normal + irregular hours/shifts required

Travel expectations: 5% to 40% varies dependent upon role & project assignments: divisional, corporate

Computer skills: Microsoft Office applications and AutoCAD required.  Microsoft Project preferred.

Technical / functional skills:  Developing skills within multiple disciplines or technologies.

Safety:  Periodically exposed to machinery where safe operating procedures must be followed, occasional lifting of materials up to 30 lbs. is required, work environment is noisy. 

Certificates, licenses, and registrations:  Pella CI / 2P Leader Certification

Leadership competencies:  Apply technical and functional expertise, Manage and improve processes, Foster collaboration, Build Relationships, Drive execution


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About Pella

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pella Corporation, headquartered in Pella, IA, is an innovative leader in creating a better view for homes and businesses by designing, testing, manufacturing, and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling, and replacement applications. Founded in 1925, Pella is a family-owned and professionally managed privately held company, known for its history of innovation, making outstanding products, providing quality service, and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship.

Industry

Building materials and garden equipment dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pella, IA, US

Year founded

1925


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