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Junior Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Junior Mechanical Engineering information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and foundational knowledge of design and manufacturing processes. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in cross-functional environments. These skills are crucial for delivering accurate designs, collaborating efficiently, and supporting successful project outcomes in engineering teams.

What types of projects do Junior Mechanical Engineers typically work on, and how much autonomy can I expect in this role?

As a Junior Mechanical Engineer, you will often be involved in supporting senior engineers with tasks such as drafting designs, conducting simulations, preparing technical documentation, and performing tests on prototypes. Early in your career, you'll typically work within a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with experienced engineers and other departments such as manufacturing and quality assurance. While you may start with closely supervised assignments, many organizations encourage gradual independence as you demonstrate your skills and reliability. Over time, you will likely take on more complex project components and gain opportunities to lead smaller tasks or initiatives.

What does a Junior Mechanical Engineer do?

A Junior Mechanical Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices and systems under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities often include creating technical drawings, performing basic calculations, supporting prototype development, and helping to solve engineering problems. They also collaborate with other team members to ensure projects meet specifications and deadlines. This role typically serves as an entry-level position, providing valuable hands-on experience and professional development within the mechanical engineering field.

What do junior mechanical engineers do?

Junior mechanical engineers assist in designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical systems and components. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, using CAD software and engineering principles to support product development, manufacturing, and maintenance tasks.

What is the difference between Junior Mechanical Engineering vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectJunior Mechanical EngineeringMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering or Design
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, manufacturing or R&D settingsDesign-focused tasks, CAD software, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, HVACProduct design, engineering firms, industrial equipment

Junior Mechanical Engineers typically perform basic engineering tasks under supervision, focusing on learning and supporting projects. Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on creating and refining product designs using CAD tools, often requiring more specialized design skills. While both roles require a mechanical engineering background, the Design Engineer role emphasizes design and development, whereas the Junior Mechanical Engineer role is more about supporting engineering processes and gaining experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Mechanical Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Junior Mechanical Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Junior Mechanical Engineering jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Junior Mechanical Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Mechanical Engineering job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.
Project Manager Mechanical Engineering

Project Manager Mechanical Engineering

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$88K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Overview
We are seeking a Project Manager - Mechanical Engineering with experience in mechanical systems design, project management, and client coordination to lead projects from pursuit through closeout. This role serves as the primary point of contact for clients and internal teams, managing mechanical engineering projects while ensuring quality, budget, and schedule performance.
This position is for a hybrid or onsite role in our Des Moines or Cedar Rapids IA office.
Responsibilities
Project Management & Delivery
  • Lead mechanical engineering projects through pursuit, initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closeout
  • Develop project management plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules
  • Oversee project team performance and ensure quality deliverables
Client & Business Development
  • Serve as primary point of contact for clients
  • Support proposal development, scoping, and contract preparation
  • Communicate with clients on budgets, schedules, and project updates
  • Identify opportunities for additional services and project growth
Technical & Team Leadership
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and external partners
  • Review technical work and ensure documentation quality
  • Mentor junior staff and contribute to team development
  • Collaborate with leadership on project strategy and delivery
Financial & Operational Management
  • Monitor budgets, manage scope changes, and pursue amendments when needed
  • Review and issue invoices; ensure timely client payment

Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 6+ years of project management or mechanical engineering experience
  • Proven experience managing engineering projects, budgets, and schedules
  • Strong knowledge of project management principles and best practices
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Teams)
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
Preferred
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in Iowa.
  • Experience with HVAC systems, building systems, or industrial mechanical design
  • Project management certification (PMP, PSMJ, EMI, or equivalent)
  • Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering teams
Why MSA
At MSA, our people are our greatest asset. We believe in building strong teams, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where employees can grow professionally while making meaningful contributions to the communities we serve.
You'll join a firm where your work matters - where your expertise, teamwork, and ideas help drive the success of projects and the organization as a whole.
BEST-IN-INDUSTRY BENEFITS
The salary for this position ranges from $88,000 to $142,000, with higher compensation possible for candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.
  • Better Together - A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.
  • Multi-disciplinary Opportunities - As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.
  • We've Got Your Back - Support when you need it and independence when you don't.
  • Commitment to DEIB - We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
  • Passion & Purpose - We are passionate about what we do and proud of it.
  • Communities of Practice - Our Communities of Practice bring together experts across disciplines to collaborate, share knowledge, and generate new ideas.
Additional Benefits
Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents
  • Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year
  • Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually
  • Paid Parental Leave - 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents
  • Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage
  • Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity
Equal Opportunity Employer
MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.