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Contract Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Why This Role Matters As a Mechanical Engineer on the industrial team with 10+ years of experience ... Attend project and client meetings with design professionals for projects under contract and for ...

Why This Role Matters As a Mechanical Engineer on the industrial team with 10+ years of experience ... Attend project and client meetings with design professionals for projects under contract and for ...

ALMACO in Nevada, IA is seeking entry level Mechanical Engineer or Senior Designer who want to work ... Additionally, we have expanded into the business of contract manufacturing, working with an array ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer - Industrial

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$92K - $122K/yr

PURPOSE The Senior Mechanical Engineer-Industrial will develop strategies for Industrial growth in ... Participate in negotiation of business and legal provisions of construction contracts * Drive use ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer - Industrial

Fort Dodge, IA ยท On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

PURPOSE The Senior Mechanical Engineer-Industrial will develop strategies for Industrial growth in ... Participate in negotiation of business and legal provisions of construction contracts * Drive use ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer - Industrial

Ankeny, IA ยท On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

PURPOSE The Senior Mechanical Engineer-Industrial will develop strategies for Industrial growth in ... Participate in negotiation of business and legal provisions of construction contracts * Drive use ...

Senior MEP Engineer

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Specifically relating to the mechanical systems: * Lead responsibility for complex projects such as ... Analyze existing site conditions and all contract documents (plans, specifications, etc.) to ...

Senior MEP Engineer

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Specifically relating to the mechanical systems: * Lead responsibility for complex projects such as ... Analyze existing site conditions and all contract documents (plans, specifications, etc.) to ...

Senior MEP Engineer

West Des Moines, IA

$95K - $126K/yr

Specifically relating to the mechanical systems: * Lead responsibility for complex projects such as ... Analyze existing site conditions and all contract documents (plans, specifications, etc.) to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Mechanical Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$42.7K

$96.6K

$156.4K

How much do contract mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract mechanical engineer in Iowa is $96,630.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,600.00 and $118,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract mechanical engineer?

Contract Mechanical Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test mechanical devices and systems, but work on a contractual basis rather than as permanent employees. They may be hired for specific projects or periods by companies needing specialized expertise. Their responsibilities can include creating technical drawings, overseeing manufacturing processes, and ensuring products meet quality standards. Contract roles offer flexibility and variety in work, but may not provide the same benefits or job security as permanent positions.

What does a contract mechanical engineer do?

Contract mechanical engineers are independent contractors who work directly with their own clients on projects. You find these professionals in a broad range of industries, including robotics, medical devices, and manufacturing. As a contract mechanical engineer, you design a product or machine according to your client's specifications, analyze the blueprints to ensure they are accurate, test a model to identify any potential issues, and repair them as necessary. Your job duties typically involve the extensive usage of specialized computer programs, such as CAD for technical drawings. Depending on the project, you may collaborate with other engineers on different aspects of the plans to ensure they do not conflict with other parts of the project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant engineering degree, often complemented by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), finite element analysis tools, and project management systems is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and time management skills help you excel in diverse project environments and collaborate effectively with clients and teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering high-quality engineering solutions on time and within budget in a contract-based setting.

What are some common challenges faced by contract mechanical engineers when working on short-term projects?

Contract Mechanical Engineers often need to quickly adapt to new team dynamics and project requirements, as short-term assignments can vary widely in scope, tools, and expectations. They may face challenges such as limited onboarding time, integrating with established teams, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential to succeed, as contract engineers must rapidly build rapport with colleagues and deliver results within tight deadlines. Additionally, proactively seeking feedback and clarifying project goals early can help navigate these challenges and ensure project success.

What is the difference between Contract Mechanical Engineer vs Contract Mechanical Designer?

AspectContract Mechanical EngineerContract Mechanical Designer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, possibly PE licenseBachelor's degree in Mechanical Design, CAD certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, manufacturing, product developmentDesign studios, manufacturing, product development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across engineering and manufacturing sectorsCommon in design and product development sectors
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for engineering roles involving analysis and designCompared for roles focused on detailed design and CAD work

Contract Mechanical Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical systems, requiring engineering credentials. Contract Mechanical Designers primarily work on creating detailed CAD models and drawings, often with design certifications. Both roles are vital in manufacturing and product development, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Contract Mechanical Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,630 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Shive Hattery Group, Inc.

Iowa City, IA โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description


Let's Do great things-Together


At Shive-Hattery, we believe great design starts with great people. We're a full-service architecture and engineering firm with a legacy of collaboration, innovation, and putting people first, our clients and each other. If you're looking for a place where your ideas matter and your growth is supported, you'll feel at home here.


Why This Role Matters


As a Mechanical Engineer on the industrial team with 10+ years of experience you'll play a key role in supporting the firm and shaping projects that make a difference-from concept through completion. You'll collaborate with talented teammates, contribute your expertise, and help us deliver thoughtful, high-quality solutions for those we serve.


What You'll Doย 

  • Lead the mechanical design of building systems to include plumbing, heating, cooling, ventilation, fire protection, building automation, and industrial process systems.
  • Work in a team setting, collaborating with other disciplines to perform the design and construction administration services for projects of all sizes.
  • Attend project and client meetings with design professionals for projects under contract and for business development opportunities.
  • Establish and manage the mechanical scope, schedule, and budget.
  • Provide direction to less experienced engineers and designers assisting with project work.
  • Oversee the completion and quality of construction drawings, specifications, reports, and other project documentation.
  • Mentor and teach other team members.
  • Visit project sites and provide technical assistance to help resolve construction issues.

Requirements

You don't need to check every box to succeed here. If your experience aligns with many of the items below and you're excited about the work we do, we encourage you to apply.

  • Graduate of an accredited engineering school with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, or architectural engineering with a mechanical emphasis.
  • 8+ years of experience in the mechanical design of building systems.
  • Experience leading the mechanical design for projects.
  • Registration as a licensed Mechanical Professional Engineer is a requirement.
  • Excellent communication skills which sets you apart in the profession. Comfortable presenting design solutions to Owners.
  • Manage time and workload effectively which includes planning, organizing, and prioritizing with attention to engineering detail.
  • Self-motivated and able to problem-solve independently adding great value to your role, while understanding, and supporting the importance of collaboration across project teams and disciplines.
  • Experience with 3D modeling software (Revit preferred) and HVAC load calculation software.

What will make you stand outย 

  • Ability to develop new technical approaches
  • Leadership of small teams and coordination efforts
  • Strong integration of analysis tools into design workflow
  • Early influence on project direction and outcomes

Our Commitment to You


Great work happens when you feel secure in your future, confident in your support, and trusted to grow. That's why our benefits support your health, financial stability, and life beyond work - including medical, dental and vision coverage, paid time off and holidays, 401(k) retirement savings, disability protection, wellness incentives, and flexibility. When we succeed, you share in that success. Guided by truth, trust, mentoring, and care, we're committed to helping you build a lasting career.


Who We Are


Shive-Hattery is a privately held architecture and engineering consulting firm with design offices across the United States. Here, you'll work alongside multidisciplinary teams delivering integrated design solutions for clients across industries. You'll contribute to meaningful projects guided by our principle to design what matters and make our world a better place. You're looking to build something great. So are we.


Shive-Hattery is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.


This position is primarily performed in an office or hybrid environment and may require travel to project sites, other Shive-Hattery office locations or to meet with clients. A full clean driver's license is required. The role involves sitting, standing, and working at a computer for extended periods. May also require lifting light to medium weight objects of up to 50 lbs., the wearing of PPE and navigating active construction sites. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.ย 


U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:


We are unable to provide visa sponsorship now or in the future. Candidates must have current and ongoing authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.


If this role sounds like a fit for your skills and interests, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help us design what matters to make the world a better place. Interested applicants should submit their cover letter, resume, and portfolio for consideration. If you are unable to submit your portfolio due to size constraints, please include a link to your portfolio in your cover letter.ย 


Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies:


To protect the interests of all parties, Shive-Hattery and its partners will not accept unsolicited candidate submissions from a recruiter or staffing agency who is not operating under an executed recruiting or staffing services contract with Shive-Hattery. Please do not contact our employees directly in that regard or otherwise submit unsolicited candidate information in any form.ย