ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automotive Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Saige Partners

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA · On-site

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for the design ... automotive, heavy equipment, transportation, or a related industry. Proficiency with 3D CAD ...

Protouch Staffing

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA

$75K - $95K/yr

Job Title Design Engineer Job Roles and Responsibilities * Design and develop trailer components ... automotive, heavy equipment, or a related manufacturing industry. * Proficiency in CAD software ...

E91

Electrical Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

E91 Design Center is seeking an Electrical Design Engineer LOCATION: Dubuque, Iowa DURATION: Full ... Exposure to electrical systems used in mobile equipment, automotive, or industrial applications

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.

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.

Qorvo, Inc.

Principal Design Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site +1

$170K - $221K/yr

... automotive, EVs, battery-powered appliances, network infrastructure, healthcare and aerospace ... POSITION DESCRIPTION We are looking for an experienced RF power amplifier (PA) design engineer in ...

Coilcraft

CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

We operate in a wide range of industries including telecommunications, computers, automotive ... Work closely with engineers and designers to ensure models and drawings meet functional and ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

We operate in a wide range of industries including telecommunications, computers, automotive ... Work closely with engineers and designers to ensure models and drawings meet functional and ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

We operate in a wide range of industries including telecommunications, computers, automotive ... Work closely with engineers and designers to ensure models and drawings meet functional and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomotive Design Engineer JobsAutomotive Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Automotive Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$38K

$82.8K

$148.9K

How much do automotive design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive design engineer in Iowa is $82,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Automotive Design Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, proficiency in CAD software, and a strong understanding of automotive systems and materials. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, and relevant certifications such as FE or PE are highly valued. Creativity, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this field. These skills and qualities enable engineers to develop innovative vehicle designs that meet safety, performance, and manufacturing requirements within cross-functional teams.

What does an automotive design engineer do?

An automotive design engineer develops and refines vehicle concepts, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. They use CAD software to create detailed models, collaborate with manufacturing teams, and ensure designs meet industry standards and customer needs throughout the development process.

What does an Automotive Design Engineer do?

An Automotive Design Engineer is responsible for developing and improving vehicle designs, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create blueprints and collaborate with engineers to refine concepts. Their work includes designing body structures, interiors, and aerodynamics while ensuring compliance with industry standards. They also test prototypes and analyze performance to enhance efficiency and durability.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior automotive design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and a strong understanding of vehicle systems can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level engineers in the automotive industry often work in leadership roles or specialized fields such as electric vehicle design or autonomous systems. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What does a typical day look like for an Automotive Design Engineer?

As an Automotive Design Engineer, your days often involve collaborating with other engineers and designers to create and refine vehicle components using CAD tools, participating in design reviews, and ensuring that your solutions meet safety and regulatory standards. You might analyze prototypes, troubleshoot design challenges, and incorporate feedback from cross-functional partners such as manufacturing or testing teams. It's common to split time between computer-based design work and hands-on activities like inspecting prototypes or components. This role offers a dynamic mix of creative problem-solving, technical analysis, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior automotive design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand markets or with bonuses and stock options. Such compensation typically reflects seniority, specialized expertise, and working for major automotive manufacturers or suppliers.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automotive design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and leadership roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with working in large companies, specialized expertise, or managerial positions within the automotive industry.
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Design Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Automotive Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Design Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,796 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Design Engineer

FTHR

Cresco, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description
Design Engineer
Reports To: Senior Design Engineer
Location: Cresco, IA
Job Summary:
This role owns on the design, development, and continuous improvement of trailer systems, including structural frames, suspension systems, braking components, and load-handling features. The ideal candidate will combine strong engineering fundamentals with practical knowledge of design and manufacturing principles.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop trailer components such as frames, axles, suspensions, couplers, and braking systems
  • Perform structural analysis (FEA) to ensure durability, load capacity, and compliance with safety standards
  • Create detailed 3D models and manufacturing drawings using CAD software
  • Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize designs for fabrication, welding, and assembly
  • Evaluate materials (e.g., high-strength steel, aluminum) for weight reduction and durability
  • Support prototype builds, field testing, and validation of trailer performance under real-world conditions
  • Troubleshoot issues related to fatigue, vibration, and load distribution
  • Ensure designs meet regulatory standards (e.g., DOT, FMVSS) and customer specifications
  • Work closely with suppliers on component selection (axles, tires, braking systems, lighting, etc.)
  • Contribute to cost reduction, quality improvement, and product innovation initiatives

Skills, Qualifications, and Experience Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• [3-5] years of experience in trailer, automotive, heavy equipment, or similar industries
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar)
• Strong understanding of structural design, welding processes, and fabrication techniques
• Familiarity with braking systems, suspension design, and load dynamics
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and standards (DOT, FMCSA, FMVSS)
• Experience with FEA tools and design validation methods
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
  • Experience with trailer types such as flatbeds, enclosed trailers, tankers, or refrigerated units
  • Familiarity with hydraulic or pneumatic systems used in trailers
  • Understanding of logistics and transportation industry requirements
  • Project management experience and ability to manage multiple design projects

At Featherlite Exiss Sooner Holdings Co., LLC, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all qualified applicants and employees and the workplace is free from unlawful discrimination or harassment. Employment decisions are based on merit alone, without consideration of an applicant's or employee's membership in any protected class.

Apply