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Trainee Engineer Jobs in Ferguson, IA (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Manager Trainee

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $17.50/hr

Bachelor's Degree in a manufacturing, engineering, or management related field preferred or equivalent management experience * Willing and able to relocate to other plant locations for promotions

Trainee Engineer information

See Ferguson, IA salary details

$28.3K

$63.8K

$107.4K

How much do trainee engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee engineer in Ferguson, IA is $63,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,300.00 and $69,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee engineer?

Trainee engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently completed their engineering education and are undergoing practical training within an organization. Their role is to gain hands-on experience, develop technical skills, and learn about the company's processes under the guidance of senior engineers. Trainee engineers may rotate through different departments to understand various aspects of engineering work and to identify their areas of interest. The goal is to prepare them for full-time engineering positions by building a strong foundation in both technical and soft skills.

What do trainee engineers do?

As a Trainee Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of entry-level engineering projects under the guidance of experienced team members. Typical responsibilities include assisting with technical documentation, conducting research, performing basic calculations or tests, and supporting ongoing design or implementation tasks. You'll often collaborate closely with engineers from different disciplines, attend regular team meetings, and participate in training sessions to build your technical and soft skills. This hands-on experience is designed to help you understand company processes and prepare you for more complex assignments as you progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee engineer?

To thrive as a Trainee Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, analytical skills, and a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and an openness to learning new technologies is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure you can effectively contribute to projects, adapt to evolving technical requirements, and integrate smoothly into engineering teams.

What is the difference between Trainee Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectTrainee EngineerJunior Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degree or diplomaCompleted degree or diploma, with some work experience
Work EnvironmentTraining period, supervised tasks, learning-focusedIndependent task execution, project involvement
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior staff, learning proceduresPerforming assigned technical tasks, supporting projects
Career StageEntry-level, training phaseEarly career, gaining experience

In summary, a Trainee Engineer is in the learning and training phase, focusing on skill development under supervision, while a Junior Engineer has completed their education and is actively working on technical tasks with more independence, marking the beginning of their professional career.

How much does a trainee engineer make?

A trainee engineer's salary typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of education. Entry-level positions often include on-the-job training and may offer additional benefits such as certifications or skill development opportunities.
Infographic showing various Trainee Engineer job openings in Ferguson, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,776 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Manager Trainee

Midwest Manufacturing

Marshalltown, IA • On-site

$15.75 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Midwest Manufacturing rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Position Summary:

This position is responsible for learning all production, management, and supervision operations of their assigned Midwest Manufacturing production facility.

Primary Responsibilities:

Production

  • Ensure that all product is built in the most efficient way
  • Ensure that all orders are filled within an acceptable lead time.
  • Involved in setting and evaluating production quotas, both quantity and quality
  • Manage and lead team members in your area
  • Work with supervisors and managers in your area to accomplish goals
  • Come up with innovative ideas to improve current processes

Facility Maintenance and Utilization

  • Keep all production facilities in good repair, orderly, and clean
  • Use equipment to capacity to fill orders

Safety

  • Ensure all safety policies are enforced, all training is up to date, and all equipment is guarded and well maintained.
  • Keep all safety training and maintenance documented
  • Keep open communication with all Team Members regarding safety issues

Attain the highest profit dollars possible

Balance inventory and reduce stock to ensure maximum turn and in-stock position.

Position Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in a manufacturing, engineering, or management related field preferred or equivalent management experience
  • Willing and able to relocate to other plant locations for promotions
  • Working knowledge of modern sales and management methods and techniques
  • Able to write and speak clearly and accurately
  • Able to establish and maintain effective working relationships
  • Able to tactfully deal with guests and team members
  • Strong knowledge of construction industry
  • Analytical and Interpersonal skills.
  • Leadership Abilities
  • Self-motivated and Goal oriented
  • Innovative
  • Organizational skills
  • Ability to multitask
  • Articulate
  • Develop action plans
  • Decision making qualities

What Midwest Manufacturing employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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