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Assistant Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kidwell

Low Voltage - Design Engineer

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$91K - $125K/yr

The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a strong foundation in design engineering ... Work with Virtual Construction Team for providing construction documents. * Assist project managers ...

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Assistant Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$31K

$83.4K

$126.3K

How much do assistant design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant design engineer in Iowa is $83,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,200.00 and $98,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant design engineer do?

An Assistant Design Engineer supports senior engineers in creating and developing designs for products, structures, or systems. Their tasks often include preparing technical drawings, conducting research, creating prototypes, and assisting with testing and analysis. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create models and work closely with other team members to ensure designs meet project requirements and safety standards. This role is typically an entry-level position that provides valuable experience in engineering design and project management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with design tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as EIT (Engineer-in-Training) are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork and communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure precise, innovative design solutions and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Assistant Design Engineer vs Design Engineer?

AspectAssistant Design EngineerDesign Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience
Work EnvironmentSupport role in design teams, assisting senior engineersLead or primary role in designing projects, overseeing technical details
ResponsibilitiesAssist in creating designs, preparing drawings, and conducting researchDevelop and finalize designs, review technical specifications, and coordinate with manufacturing

The main difference between an Assistant Design Engineer and a Design Engineer lies in responsibility level and experience. Assistant Design Engineers support the design process and gain experience, while Design Engineers take on more complex tasks and lead design projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Design Engineers typically have more hands-on experience and responsibility.

What are some common challenges assistant design engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to professional engineering environments?

Assistant Design Engineers often find that transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering roles involves adapting to tighter deadlines, larger teams, and stricter compliance with industry standards. Unlike classroom assignments, professional projects require precise documentation, coordination with other departments such as manufacturing and quality assurance, and adherence to budget constraints. Embracing collaborative tools and clear communication is essential, as is being open to feedback from senior engineers to grow technically and professionally.
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What cities in Iowa are hiring for Assistant Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Assistant Design Engineer job openings:
Assistant Design Engineer jobs near you

Product Design Engineer

Three Point Solutions

Ottumwa, IA • On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Title:         Product Design Engineer
Client:              Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Location:         Ottumwa, IA 52501
Duration:         24 Months (Possibility of Extension/Conversion)
Shift:                1st Shift (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Job Summary

Entry-level product engineering role focused on mechanical design support, troubleshooting, and product validation for production lines (Windrower Platform), with strong involvement in design improvements and testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Support mechanical design and troubleshooting for production line
• Evaluate and improve design solutions for cost, quality, and performance
• Execute product validation and verification (V&V) activities
• Analyze engineering requirements and specifications
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, suppliers, manufacturing)
• Document design decisions, analysis, and test results
• Assist in prototype development and implementation of design changes
• Support continuous improvement initiatives

Core Duties

• Mechanical design support (CAD-based)
• Product testing & validation (V&V)
• Troubleshooting production/design issues
• Engineering documentation & reporting
• Cross-functional coordination
• Process and product improvement

Work Environment / Role Nature

• Mix of office (design) and shop-floor support
• Collaboration-heavy engineering team environment
• May require occasional overtime for production support
• Exposure to assembly line and manufacturing processes

Required Skills

• Mechanical design (Creo or similar CAD tools) – 1–2 years
• Problem-solving & troubleshooting – 2+ years
• Engineering fundamentals (design, testing, analysis) – 1–2 years
• Communication & teamwork – 2+ years
• Product testing & validation – 1+ year

Preferred Skills

• Product Verification & Validation (V&V)
• Assembly line processes & documentation

• Weld processes & documentation
• SAP
• Excel & PowerPoint

Technical Exposure Areas

• CAD / Engineering tools – 1–2 years
• Engineering specifications & analysis – 1–2 years
• EPDP / product development lifecycle – 1+ year exposure

Education / Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical / Agricultural Engineering (or equivalent)
• Entry-level to early-career (0–2 years experience)

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