1

Contract Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate with Engineers and cross-functional teams to create or modify detailed designs using ... Additionally, we have expanded into the business of contract manufacturing, working with an array ...

Collaborate with Engineers and cross-functional teams to create or modify detailed designs using ... Additionally, we have expanded into the business of contract manufacturing, working with an array ...

Experience with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations and/or Maintenance is recommended as well as ... Assigns, coordinates and reviews the work of support and contract personnel. Some specific duties ...

Contract manger - Midwest Region

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Preferred Qualifications * 3+ years' experience in construction, manufacturing, engineering, energy, or industrial services industries; * Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) or similar ...

Contract manger - Midwest Region

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Preferred Qualifications * 3+ years' experience in construction, manufacturing, engineering, energy, or industrial services industries; * Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) or similar ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Manufacturing Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$44.6K

$80.4K

$112.7K

How much do contract manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract manufacturing engineer in Iowa is $80,414.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $88,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges contract manufacturing engineers face when managing multiple vendor relationships?

Contract Manufacturing Engineers often juggle several vendor relationships simultaneously, which can present challenges in maintaining consistent quality standards, ensuring timely delivery, and managing clear communication across different teams. Balancing the expectations of internal stakeholders with the capabilities and constraints of external partners requires strong organizational and negotiation skills. Proactively addressing production issues and fostering transparent communication with vendors are key strategies for overcoming these challenges and ensuring project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and Lean or Six Sigma certifications are commonly required for overseeing production efficiency and compliance. Strong project management, problem-solving skills, and effective communication with both internal teams and external vendors make professionals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing solutions and seamless collaboration across organizations.

What is the difference between Contract Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectContract Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six Sigma or LeanBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six Sigma or Lean
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often project-specific, in manufacturing plants or supplier facilitiesFull-time, in manufacturing plants or corporate offices
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing firms, suppliers, contract manufacturersManufacturing companies, industrial firms, OEMs

Both roles require similar technical credentials and work in manufacturing environments. However, Contract Manufacturing Engineers focus on managing outsourced production projects, while Manufacturing Engineers oversee ongoing production processes within a company. The choice depends on whether the role is project-specific or continuous process improvement.

What is a contract manufacturing engineer?

A Contract Manufacturing Engineer is a professional who is hired on a temporary or project basis to manage and optimize manufacturing processes for a company. Their responsibilities often include designing efficient production systems, ensuring product quality, and collaborating with suppliers or contract manufacturers. They may also help with scaling production, troubleshooting issues, and implementing cost-saving measures. Contract Manufacturing Engineers are typically employed for their specialized expertise and flexibility, supporting organizations during periods of transition, growth, or when specific skills are needed.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,414 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Quality Engineer - Pella, IA

Pella Corporation

Pella, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Pella rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

SUMMARY PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

 Responsible for coordination of complex and multi-disciplined engineering projects from concept to implementation.  Coordinates all work within the scope of assigned projects to ensure objectives in terms of quality, cost, and time are met.  Follows the structure of Pella's Safety, Quality, Project Management & Continuous Improvement Systems from concept through project execution. Approves product/process design and prepares engineering documents; such as cost estimates, appropriation requests, projects schedules, design specifications, instruction specifications, purchase requisitions, operating manuals, and technical reports.  Assures that contracts are awarded to the outside vendors that offer the best value and appropriate quality.  Responsible for effective communication of engineering information among team members.  May supervise assigned technical team members and coordinates their work within the scope of assigned responsibilities.  Serves as an expert resource across the organization, providing technical information, and engineering recommendations that influence projects. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

SCOPE:

Capable of working independently and with minimal direction on complex projects.  Also responsible for the advancement and application of engineering technologies and processes.

SUPERVISING OTHERS:

Primarily an individual contributor role.  Capable of leading a team in complex technical projects from development through implementation.  Serves as a mentor and coach to others in area of expertise.  May supervise exempt, non-exempt, and hourly employees.

APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE:

Develops and evaluates plans and criteria for a variety of projects and activities.  Plans, schedules, and coordinates detailed phases of a project or task. 

Technology process owner; responsible for developing and applying knowledge across multiple disciplines across the organization.

Assesses the feasibility and soundness of proposed approaches, techniques or equipment when necessary data are insufficient. Performs as requested as advisor and consultant relative to a scientific or engineering specialty or a product function. Carries out assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures.  Possesses in-depth problem solving skills utilized to determine and address root cause.  Work results in the development of refined equipment, materials, processes, products, technologies, and/or scientific methods.

JUDGMENT:

Plans and coordinates work requiring independent judgment in the evaluation, selection, and adaptation of advanced techniques and processes.  Knowledge and judgment have a direct effect on advancement of assigned technology.

QUALIFICATIONS 

EXPERIENCE:

7+ years combined engineering experience within 2-3 disciplines (Process, Product, CI, Project, Quality, Plant).

EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT:

Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Math, or relevant Science or combination of education and experience.  Masters Degree preferred in Engineering, Math, or relevant Science.

QUALIFICATIONS

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

3+ years combined engineering experience.

EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT:

Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Math, or relevant Science or combination of education and experience.  Responsible for ongoing development of technical and leadership competencies.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - QUALITY Engineer III / IV (Plant):  Job Code #05041

Responsibilities: Manage and improve processes to uphold product quality standards.  Track and monitor key quality performance metrics in order to reduce manufacturing defects.  The scope of influence of this position spans manufacturing, engineering, product development, sales branches and material vendors.  Strong influential leadership skills are necessary when planning and implementing PPM projects and when prioritizing plant quality activities. The ability to effectively present information, defend a position and address concerns is key to fostering collaboration.  Responsible for the deployment of the Pella Quality System including the development and oversight of each plant's annual quality plan. 

Supervisory responsibilities:  Plant quality & gauge technicians     

Work hours: Normal + irregular hours/shifts required

Travel expectations:  Minimal, but required.

Computer skills: Microsoft Office applications and Minitab 

Technical / functional skills: Engineering statistics (Lean Sigma tools)

Safety: Periodically exposed to machinery where safe operating procedures must be followed, occasional lifting of materials up to 30 lbs. is required, work environment is noisy. 

Certificates, licenses, and registrations:  Lean Sigma Green Belt certification and ASQ Certified Quality Engineer preferred.

Leadership competencies:  Apply technical and functional expertise, Manager and improve processes, Foster collaboration, Establish plans, Coach and develop people, Lead courageously

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Senior Quality Engineer:                

Responsibilities: Manage and improve processes to uphold product quality standards.  Track and monitor key quality performance metrics in order to reduce manufacturing defects.  The scope of influence of this position spans manufacturing, engineering, product development, sales branches and material vendors.  Strong influential leadership skills are necessary when planning and implementing PPM projects and when prioritizing plant quality activities. The ability to effectively present information, defend a position and address concerns is key to fostering collaboration.  Responsible for the deployment of the Pella Quality System including the development and oversight of each plant's annual quality plan. 

Supervisory responsibilities:  Plant quality & gauge technicians     

Work hours: Normal + irregular hours/shifts required

Travel expectations:  Minimal to moderate

Computer skills: Microsoft Office applications and Minitab 

Technical / functional skills: Engineering statistics (Lean Sigma tools)

Safety:  Periodically exposed to machinery where safe operating procedures must be followed, occasional lifting of materials up to 30 lbs. is required, work environment may be noisy. 

Certificates, licenses, and registrations:  Lean Sigma Green Belt certification and ASQ Certified Quality Engineer preferred.

Leadership competencies:  Apply technical and functional expertise, Manager and improve processes, Foster collaboration, Establish plans, Coach and develop people, Lead courageously


What Pella employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Pella logo

About Pella

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pella Corporation, headquartered in Pella, IA, is an innovative leader in creating a better view for homes and businesses by designing, testing, manufacturing, and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling, and replacement applications. Founded in 1925, Pella is a family-owned and professionally managed privately held company, known for its history of innovation, making outstanding products, providing quality service, and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship.

Industry

Building materials and garden equipment dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pella, IA, US

Year founded

1925