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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 ...

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.

Staff RFIC Design Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site +1

$144K - $187K/yr

... automotive, EVs, battery-powered appliances, network infrastructure, healthcare and aerospace ... Switch/LNA/RF IC Design Engineer, the design of GaAs/SOI/SiGe/CMOS based switch and LNA or RFIC ...

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 ...

Gestamp

IA

Long Description Process Engineer - Divisional Drive the Future of Automotive Manufacturing Are you ... Travel to supplier and plant locations for design reviews, equipment buyoffs, technology ...

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Controls Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

... automotive systems, or other off-highway machinery. * Knowledge of hydraulic system design ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

Big River Steel LLC

Engineer I, BRS

Osceola, IA · On-site

O. systems and design layout; three-phase motors and ability to troubleshoot; network ... far ranging as automotive, construction, containers and packaging, appliances, and energy.

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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 Aug 30, 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 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive design engineer?

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.

How much do automotive design engineers make in the US?

Automotive design engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $75,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or advanced degrees can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% 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

Re-posted 14 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.

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