ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automotive 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 ...

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 ...

The Boyd Group

Automotive Mobile ADAS Technician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$60K - $95K/yr

... programming, ADAS calibrations and analysis Performs wiring repairs Advises shop of needed repairs ... the automotive trade Basic computer knowledge including using email, spreadsheet and messaging ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomotive Engineer JobsAutomotive Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Automotive Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$26

$32

$47

How much do automotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive engineer in Iowa is $32.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.13 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a relevant degree in automotive or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards such as ISO and SAE, as well as certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), are typically required. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and respond to rapidly changing technologies. These skills ensure successful vehicle design, compliance with safety standards, and innovation in a competitive automotive market.

What does an automotive engineer do?

Automotive engineers design, develop, and test the mechanical components and subsystems of vehicles. As an automotive engineer, you may be asked to create engineering specifications, conduct design reviews, provide technical direction to other staff, modify existing parts in a lab, or perform various analyses. In some cases, automotive engineers perform emergency tests and checks to search for manufacturing defects and decide whether or not a recall should be ordered.

What does an automotive engineer do?

An automotive engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing vehicles and their subsystems. They work on improving the performance, safety, and efficiency of cars, trucks, and other automobiles. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers to create new technologies, address regulatory requirements, and solve engineering challenges in vehicle production. Automotive engineers may specialize in areas such as structural design, electronics, or powertrain systems.

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

Automotive engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing innovative design with strict safety and regulatory standards. They must also work within tight project timelines and budget constraints, all while ensuring that new technologies are both reliable and manufacturable at scale. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—including designers, software specialists, and manufacturing engineers—is essential to address issues such as integration of electronics, fuel efficiency, and sustainability. Navigating these complexities requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability.

What is the difference between Automotive Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAutomotive EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or related fields; possibly certifications like SAE or ASEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; professional engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentAutomotive manufacturing plants, R&D labs, design studiosFactories, design offices, research labs across various industries
Industry UsageAutomotive industry focus on vehicle design, testing, and productionBroad industry application including aerospace, manufacturing, energy, and more

Automotive Engineers specialize in vehicle design, testing, and manufacturing within the automotive industry, often requiring specific automotive certifications. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working across multiple industries with similar foundational skills. Both roles share core engineering principles but differ in industry focus and application.

More about Automotive Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Automotive Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Automotive Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automotive Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Automotive Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Engineer jobs in IA? For Automotive Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Automotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,021 per year, or $32.7 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.