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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $33/hr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field OR Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or ...

Controls Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $33/hr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field OR Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or ...

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field OR Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or ...

Controls Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $33/hr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field OR Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or ...

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

The Senior Electrical Engineer also provides mentorship to associate engineers and designers ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (preferred), or a related field such as Mechanical ...

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

The Senior Electrical Engineer also provides mentorship to associate engineers and designers ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (preferred), or a related field such as Mechanical ...

Associate's Degree in Tool & Die preferred; Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering would be an advantage Experience: Five to seven years of Tool & Die Engineer experience; At least two years of ...

Associate's Degree in Tool & Die preferred; Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering would be an advantage Experience: Five to seven years of Tool & Die Engineer experience; At least two years of ...

... associates to do meaningful work and make a lasting impact in the communities we serve. Wherever ... Engineering Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Equivalent * 5 years of Project Management ...

... associates to do meaningful work and make a lasting impact in the communities we serve. Wherever ... Engineering Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Equivalent * 5 years of Project Management ...

Facilities Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$80K - $134K/yr

... associates to do meaningful work and make a lasting impact in the communities we serve. Wherever ... Engineering Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Equivalent * 5 years of Project Management ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

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.

Controls Engineer

Lincoln Electric

Bettendorf, IA • On-site

$22.50 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Lincoln Electric rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Lincoln Electric is a high-performance industrial machinery and technology leader who helps customers manufacture and maintain vital equipment and infrastructure. Lincoln Electric's innovative solutions enable higher quality and productivity across a variety of processes including welding, cutting, brazing, machining, process automation, and field repair. The Company leverages proprietary technologies and expertise in materials science, power electronics, automation, and intelligent software to help customers build better and achieve resilience in their operations. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Lincoln Electric is the essential 'Linc' that keeps the economy running. The Company operates 71 manufacturing and automation facilities across 20 countries and serves customers in over 160 countries. For more information about Lincoln Electric and its products and services, visit the Company's website at https://www.lincolnelectric.com.
Location: Bettendorf
Function: Manufacturing
Pay Range: ($22.50 / hr - $33.00 / hr)
Target Bonus: 5%
Req ID: 29384
Summary
Lincoln Electric Automation is seeking a Controls Engineer to play a key role in the electrical design, development, and startup of custom automated manufacturing systems. This position supports innovative solutions such as robotic welding cells, advanced tooling and fixtures, and integrated automation equipment used by manufacturers around the world.
If you enjoy hands-on engineering, collaborative problem solving, and seeing complex systems come to life on the plant floor, this role offers a highly visible and rewarding opportunity. This is an on-site position in Bettendorf, IA.
In addition to competitive pay, Lincoln Electric offers a bonus plan, medical/dental/vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off and many more outstanding benefits!
Key Responsibilities
  • Take ownership of control system tasks to ensure successful project execution, on time and within budget
  • Design, debug, and validate safe, reliable PLC and HMI control programs that meet customer and company standards
  • Collaborate closely with robotic programmers, HMI developers, and mechanical teams to ensure full system functionality
  • Debug electrical and mechanical systems during machine build, startup, and commissioning
  • Ensure equipment meets internal run-off requirements, safety inspections, and quality standards prior to shipment
  • Maintain high equipment quality and support continuous improvement initiatives
  • Communicate clearly with project managers and supervisors regarding technical issues, risks, and solutions
  • Support on-site startup activities and customer acceptance as required
  • Travel as needed to support project execution. Up to 50% possible (25%-30% is normal)

Experience / Skills
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field OR Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline with relevant experience
    • Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience will be considered
  • 1-2+ years of PLC programming experience in an industrial or automation environment
  • Ability to plan, prioritize, and execute daily and weekly engineering tasks
  • Proven team player with strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
  • PLC and machine control programming experience (Rockwell preferred)
  • Experience with HMI development, safety systems, and industrial networks
  • Working knowledge of electrical troubleshooting and system integration
  • Willingness to safely operate fork trucks and overhead cranes

Lincoln Electric is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to promoting equal employment opportunity for applicants, without regard to their race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to, lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

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