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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mechdyne Corporation

Mechanical Engineer

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Design, Industrial Design, or related field. * Experience with 2D and 3D CAD software. * Hands‑on engineering or manufacturing ...

New

Elanco

Advisor-Manufacturing Engineering

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

... associate's degree in a related field with 5 years of relevant experience. * Experience: Experience supporting mechanical, HVAC, facility utilities, capital projects, or engineering systems in an ...

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 ...

Eobrands

Senior Mechanical Designer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

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+ ...

Crystal

Senior Mechanical Designer

Hiawatha, IA

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 ...

Crystal

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 · 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 ...

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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 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 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,630 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Mechdyne Corporation

Marshalltown, IA • On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Location: Marshalltown Tech Center | Marshalltown, IA
Travel: ~30% (Domestic & International)
Salary Range: $65,000 - $75,000

Mechdyne Corporation is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to help design and develop innovative solutions for clients around the world. In this role, you'll transform customer requirements into manufacturable products and systems while balancing performance, quality, budget, and timeline expectations.

What You'll Do
  • Create and modify 2D and 3D CAD models, drawings, and technical documentation.
  • Develop engineering concepts and solutions for client projects.
  • Assist with project estimating, proposals, and Statements of Work.
  • Design structural components, weldments, machining operations, and hardware requirements.
  • Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs).
  • Support manufacturing, quality inspections, assembly, and documentation efforts.
  • Collaborate with customers to understand requirements and deliver effective solutions.
  • Travel periodically to customer sites (approximately 30%).
What We're Looking For
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Design, Industrial Design, or related field.
  • Experience with 2D and 3D CAD software.
  • Hands‑on engineering or manufacturing experience.
  • Strong problem‑solving and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
Why Mechdyne?
  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Performance incentives and profit sharing
  • Collaborative and innovative culture
  • Meaningful work with global impact

Mechdyne is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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