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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Vibotek LLC

Mechanical Engineer

Davenport, IA

Experience developing and implementing mechanical engineering project work. Candidate Details: 1+ to 2 years experience. Seniority Level: Associate. Management Experience Required: No. Minimum ...

Design Hire LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Sanborn, IA · On-site

Associate or bachelor's degree in Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering, Drafting, or a related technical field preferred. * Strong attention to detail, communication, organization, and problem ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent * Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent * Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent * Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor ...

Crystal Group

Senior Mechanical Designer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

Associate of Science degree in mechanical engineering with 5+ years of mechanical design experience or 8+ years of mechanical design experience in lieu of degree Preferred Qualifications * 2+ years ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent * Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering Associate JobsMechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Iowa

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$42.7K

$96.6K

$156.4K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Iowa is $96,630.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,600.00 and $118,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineering associate?

Mechanical Engineering Associates are early-career professionals who support engineering teams in designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems and products. They typically assist with creating technical drawings, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and solving engineering problems under the supervision of senior engineers. This role is often a starting point for recent graduates in mechanical engineering, offering hands-on experience and opportunities to learn industry practices. Mechanical Engineering Associates may work in various sectors, such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineering associate?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Associate, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation tools, as well as exposure to industry standards like ASME, is often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and convey technical concepts clearly. These capabilities ensure high-quality project outcomes and efficient integration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Associate vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering AssociateMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or equivalentBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting roles in design, testing, and manufacturingDesign, analysis, and project management responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, product development, and technical supportDesign firms, industrial companies, and R&D departments

The Mechanical Engineering Associate typically holds an associate's degree and performs support tasks in engineering projects, while the Mechanical Engineer has a bachelor's degree and takes on more complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles are essential in engineering teams, but the associate role is more entry-level and supportive in nature.

What are the most common challenges faced by mechanical engineering associates when transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering tasks?

One of the most common challenges Mechanical Engineering Associates encounter is adapting to the pace and complexity of real-world engineering projects compared to academic assignments. In industry, projects often involve tight deadlines, multidisciplinary teams, and the need to balance technical accuracy with practical constraints like budget and manufacturability. Associates must also become proficient in using industry-standard software and tools, and learn to interpret and apply company-specific standards. Effective communication with senior engineers and other departments is essential for success in this collaborative environment.

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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:

Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,630 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Vibotek LLC

Davenport, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job description:

We:

Act With Integrity: We lead with respect, honesty, transparency and accountability.
Safeguard our Future: We protect and improve the health and safety of our employees, communities and environment.
Grow Stronger Together: We cultivate an inclusive and diverse culture that advocates for equity.
Earn Customer Loyalty: We build customer partnerships through best-in-class products and service.
Drive Operational Excellence: We pursue continuous improvement through innovation, agility, people development and collaboration.
Create Value: We achieve success by generating and growing value for our stakeholders.
This Mechanical Engineer will provide services to the Sheet Finishing department to safely meet our business plan for engineering, production, maintenance, and quality standards. In this role, you will serve as a critical team member to optimize the safety, efficiency, output, and quality of our plant infrastructure and manufacturing processes. This position is responsible for mechanical system integration for assigned area projects to create, sustain, or improve manufacturing infrastructure, equipment, and processes. This role is driven by self-directed work and collaborative efforts with a team of Engineers, Technical staff, maintenance, and production across the department.

In this role, you will:

Utilize project management tools for the successful implementation of both sustaining and new capital improvement projects.
Coordinate all phases of assigned area mechanical engineering projects from concept, scope development, written specifications, project safety reviews, bid solicitations, design, manufacturing, equipment commissioning, and project closure.
Manage external vendors and contractors who provide design, material, installation, and other support functions.
Focus on tactical projects in the areas of safety, infrastructure reliability, training, and production.
Lead and support the execution of problem-solving efforts related to process and machine improvements.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Ag Engineering from an accredited institution.
Excellent verbal written communication skills with the ability to work interact at all levels of an organization.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Project programs.

Exceptional Candidates possess:

3 years of Engineering experience in an industrial manufacturing environment.
1 year or more experience with aluminum rolling mill or related technology.
Experience interpreting design and control of mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and/or utility systems for machine understanding and performing improvement modifications.
Experience developing and implementing mechanical engineering project work.

Candidate Details:

1+ to 2 years experience.
Seniority Level: Associate.
Management Experience Required: No.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's Degree.