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Automobile Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Gestamp

IA · On-site

Long Description Process Engineer - Divisional Drive the Future of Automotive Manufacturing Are you passionate about designing world-class manufacturing processes and bringing innovative automotive ...

Gestamp

IA

$83K - $113K/yr

SR. ADVANCED QUALITY ENGINEER Are you passionate about driving world-class quality and launching cutting-edge automotive programs? Gestamp is seeking a Senior Advanced Quality Engineer to lead ...

Gestamp

IA · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

... into automotive and apply their expertise in new ways. Relaunch Lane is a six-month, paid ... The selected participant will join our Mason, Michigan, facility as a Quality Engineer, where they ...

RFA Engineering

XIL Integration Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

RFA Engineering ( www.rfamec.com ) supports industry-leading clients through the full software ... Knowledge of automotive communication protocols including CAN and Ethernet. * Familiarity with ...

Stefanini

Embedded Software Engineer - Automotive

Grimes, IA · On-site

$129K - $170K/yr

Stefanini is looking for an Embedded Software Engineer - Automotive in Grimes, IA (ONSITE) For quick apply, please reach out to Merwyne Guillermo Call: +1 / Email: Responsibilities: Responsible for ...

Saige Partners

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline. 3-5 years of experience in trailer manufacturing, automotive, heavy equipment, transportation, or a ...

FTHR

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA · On-site

Description Design Engineer Reports To: Senior Design Engineer Location: Cresco, IA Job Summary ... automotive, heavy equipment, or similar industries • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

... automotive, broadband communications and consumer electronics. We are seeking a highly qualified ... Possess a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related fieldBring at least 5 years of ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

... automotive, broadband communications and consumer electronics. We are seeking a highly qualified ... our team as a Mechanical Design Engineer (Automation) in our Hawarden, Iowa location.

Coilcraft

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

... automotive, broadband communications and consumer electronics. We are seeking a highly qualified ... our team as a Mechanical Design Engineer (Automation) in our Hawarden, Iowa location.

Crystal Group

Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Job Title: Test Engineer Reports to: Manager, Engineering Department: Engineering Work Model ... Current and past industry standards for military, automotive industry, or industrial environments

Crystal Group

Test Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

Job Title: Test Engineer Reports to: Manager, Engineering Department: Engineering Work Model ... Current and past industry standards for military, automotive industry, or industrial environments

Crystal Group

Test Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

Job Title: Test Engineer Reports to: Manager, Engineering Department: Engineering Work Model ... Current and past industry standards for military, automotive industry, or industrial environments

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomobile Engineer JobsAutomobile Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Automobile Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$34.3K

$100.8K

$129.1K

How much do automobile engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automobile engineer in Iowa is $100,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,100.00 and $127,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges automobile engineers face when working on new vehicle models?

Automobile Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating advanced technologies, meeting stringent safety and environmental regulations, and balancing performance with cost efficiency. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including designers, manufacturing specialists, and software engineers—is essential to address these complexities. Additionally, engineers must stay updated on emerging trends like electric vehicles and autonomous systems, which requires continuous learning and adaptation. These challenges make the role dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy problem-solving and innovation.

How much does an automobile engineer make?

Automobile engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those in managerial roles can earn over $100,000 annually. Skills in CAD software, vehicle design, and testing are often required for higher-paying roles.

What is the difference between Automobile Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAutomobile EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automotive Engineering or Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentAutomotive manufacturing plants, R&D labs, design studiosFactories, design firms, research labs across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily automotive and transportation sectorsBroad sectors including aerospace, manufacturing, energy
Common Search IntentAutomobile design, vehicle testing, automotive systemsMachine design, thermodynamics, manufacturing processes

Automobile Engineers specialize in vehicle design, testing, and manufacturing within the automotive industry, focusing on cars, trucks, and related systems. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working across multiple industries with skills in machine design, thermodynamics, and manufacturing. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Automobile Engineers focus specifically on automotive applications, making them more targeted for those interested in the vehicle sector.

What does an automobile engineer do?

An automobile engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing vehicles such as cars, trucks, and buses. They work on improving vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency by applying principles of mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. Automobile engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to create innovative automotive technologies and ensure vehicles meet regulatory standards. Their work also involves solving engineering problems related to engines, transmissions, and vehicle systems.

What is the work of automobile engineers?

Automobile engineers design, develop, and test vehicles and their components, focusing on improving safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. They work with tools like CAD software and often collaborate with manufacturing teams to bring designs to production, requiring knowledge of engineering principles and industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automobile engineer?

To thrive as an Automobile Engineer, you need a solid grounding in mechanical engineering principles, automotive design, and manufacturing processes, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in automotive or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of automotive regulations and standards is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and teamwork skills help set top professionals apart in this field. These capabilities are vital for designing innovative, safe, and efficient vehicles while working effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
What are popular job titles related to Automobile Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Automobile Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automobile Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automobile Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automobile Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Automobile Engineer job openings:
Automobile Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automobile Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,766 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Product Development Engineer

Life Line Emergency Vehicles

Sumner, IA • On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Join the Team That Builds Life-Saving Vehicles

Why Life Line?

At Life Line, you won’t just build parts — you’ll help build ambulances that save lives every day. When you join our team, you become part of something bigger. We foster a supportive, team-oriented environment where your skills grow, your hard work is valued, and your contributions truly make a difference.

Position Summary

We are seeking a New Product Development Engineer to join our engineering team and support the design, development, and continuous improvement of our ambulance and emergency vehicle products, including custom ambulance builds. Reporting to the Director of New Product Development, this role takes new vehicle concepts, standard product features, and customer-driven custom configurations from initial concept through prototyping, testing, and full production release — ensuring all designs meet the highest standards of safety, durability, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and develop new ambulance modules, patient compartments, chassis integrations, and related subsystems from concept through production
  • Support the Director of New Product Development in executing the product roadmap and translating strategic priorities into engineering deliverables
  • Develop engineering solutions for custom ambulance builds, working directly with sales and customers to translate unique specifications and requests into manufacturable designs
  • Create detailed engineering drawings, 3D models, and BOMs using CAD software (AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar)
  • Develop and execute prototypes, conduct testing, and validate designs against performance, safety, and durability requirements
  • Ensure designs comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., KKK-A-1822, NFPA 1900, GVS/GSA specifications, CAAS, or applicable regional/national standards)
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, production, and quality teams to ensure both standard and custom designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and meet production timelines
  • Work with suppliers and vendors to source components, evaluate materials, and manage engineering changes
  • Support root-cause analysis and corrective action for field issues, warranty claims, and quality concerns
  • Manage engineering documentation, change orders, and revision control throughout the product lifecycle for both standard and custom builds
  • Partner with sales and customer teams to scope custom orders, provide engineering feasibility input, and set realistic delivery expectations
  • Stay current on emerging technologies, materials, and regulatory changes affecting emergency vehicle design
  • Support cost reduction initiatives and continuous improvement efforts across existing product lines

Skills and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field
  • 3+ years of experience in product development or design engineering, ideally in automotive, truck body, specialty vehicle, or heavy equipment manufacturing
  • Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Inventor, or equivalent)
  • Working knowledge of vehicle electrical systems, structural design, and/or fabrication methods (sheet metal, composites, welding)
  • Comfort working on both structured new-product programs and fast-turnaround, customer-specific custom builds
  • Familiarity with relevant regulatory and industry standards (FMVSS, KKK-A-1822, NFPA, or similar) is a strong plus
  • Experience with DFM (Design for Manufacturability) and DFA (Design for Assembly) principles
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work cross-functionally with production, quality, and sales teams
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills; comfortable presenting design updates to leadership, including the Director of New Product Development

Preferred Experience

  • Experience specifically in ambulance, fire apparatus, or emergency/specialty vehicle manufacturing
  • Prior experience supporting custom or made-to-order vehicle builds
  • Knowledge of GVWR/weight distribution analysis for upfit vehicles
  • Experience with FEA (Finite Element Analysis) or other simulation tools
  • Familiarity with electrical/12V-24V systems, lighting, and communication equipment used in emergency vehicles

Contingencies of Employment

  • Successful completion of a background check, pre-employment drug screen and physical examination.
  • Successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, if applicable to the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Life Line Emergency Vehicles (LLEV) is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are valued, respected, and supported.

LLEV does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Work Authorization

Life Line Emergency Vehicles does not offer employment sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.