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Design Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Rite-Hite

Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA · Hybrid

Write test plans and direct tests to verify analysis. * Design test stands. * Develop new product cost estimates with cost accounting. * Coordinate with suppliers. * Write purchase specifications.

Rite Hite

Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

Write test plans and direct tests to verify analysis. * Design test stands. * Develop new product cost estimates with cost accounting. * Coordinate with suppliers. * Write purchase specifications.

Bazooka Farmstar

Design Engineer

Washington, IA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

May lead and/or direct projects through entire product life cycle; inception through production and maintenance of product line (Combined design and manufacturing engineering). * Prepares complete 3D ...

Bazooka Farmstar

Senior Design Engineer

Washington, IA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

May lead and/or direct projects through entire product life cycle; inception through production and maintenance of product line (Combined design and manufacturing engineering). * Prepares complete 3D ...

Productive Resources LLC

Product Design Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

Product Design Engineer II Eldridge, IA - Direct Hire Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com) is seeking a candidate to be part of our client's team at their facility in Eldridge, IA. As a ...

Productive Resources

Product Design Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

Product Design Engineer II Eldridge, IA - Direct Hire Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com) is seeking a candidate to be part of our client's team at their facility in Eldridge, IA. As a ...

Productive Resources LLC

Product Design Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

Product Design Engineer II Eldridge, IA - Direct Hire Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com) is seeking a candidate to be part of our client's team at their facility in Eldridge, IA. As a ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA

$87K/yr

... direct all third-party relationships with architects, engineers, etc. Provide extensive and rapid-fire knowledge of FF&E vendors and resources to the team Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from a ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA

$87K/yr

... direct all third-party relationships with architects, engineers, etc. Provide extensive and rapid-fire knowledge of FF&E vendors and resources to the team Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from a ...

RFA Engineering

Electrical Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

... growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization ... Electrical Design Engineer The Electrical Design Engineer is a responsible for creating and ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA

$87K/yr

... direct all third-party relationships with architects, engineers, etc. Provide extensive and rapid-fire knowledge of FF&E vendors and resources to the team Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from a ...

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All JobsDesign JobsDesign Director JobsDesign Director Jobs in Iowa

Design Director information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$127.5K

$228.2K

How much do design director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for design director in Iowa is $127,517.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,800.00 and $153,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a design director do?

A Design Director leads and oversees the creative vision and direction of design projects within an organization. They manage design teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure that all visual outputs align with the company's brand and objectives. Design Directors are responsible for setting design standards, mentoring team members, and ensuring the quality and consistency of creative work across various platforms. Their role often includes strategic planning, project management, and communication with clients or upper management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design director?

To thrive as a Design Director, you need deep expertise in design principles, visual communication, and leadership, often supported by a degree in design or a related field and significant industry experience. Mastery of design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools is essential, along with experience in overseeing brand and creative strategy. Exceptional communication, creative vision, and team leadership skills distinguish top performers in this role. These capabilities are crucial for delivering cohesive design solutions, inspiring creative teams, and ensuring alignment with business objectives.

How does a design director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As a Design Director, you will regularly work with product managers, engineers, marketing teams, and other stakeholders to ensure that design solutions align with business goals and user needs. This role often involves leading design reviews, facilitating brainstorming sessions, and providing clear feedback to your team. Effective communication and the ability to advocate for design principles are essential, as you'll need to balance creative vision with practical constraints. Being proactive in building relationships across departments helps streamline workflows and fosters a collaborative environment that leads to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Design Director vs Art Director?

AspectDesign DirectorArt Director
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall design strategy, manages multiple projects, and leads design teamsFocuses on visual style, aesthetics, and execution of specific projects or campaigns
Required SkillsLeadership, strategic planning, broad design expertiseVisual creativity, technical skills, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentTypically in corporate, agency, or large studio settingsOften in advertising, media, or entertainment industries
Common UsageUsed when referring to senior design leadership rolesUsed for roles focused on visual and artistic direction

The main difference between a Design Director and an Art Director lies in scope and focus. A Design Director oversees overall design strategy and manages teams across multiple projects, while an Art Director concentrates on the visual style and execution of specific projects. Both roles require strong design skills, but the Design Director's responsibilities are broader and more strategic.

Is it hard to become a design director?

Becoming a design director typically requires extensive experience in design, strong leadership skills, and a proven track record of managing projects and teams. Many professionals advance to this role after years of working in design roles such as senior designer or art director, often developing expertise in design tools and strategic thinking. The path can be competitive and may involve gaining relevant certifications or advanced education in design or management.

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

The most popular types of Design jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Director jobs in Iowa?

For Design Director jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Director jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Director jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Design Director jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Design Director job openings:

Design Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Director job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,517 per year, or $61.3 per hour.

Design Engineer

Rite-Hite

Dubuque, IA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Rite-Hite rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

At Rite-Hite, your work makes an impact. As the global leader in loading dock and door equipment, we design and deliver solutions that keep our customers safe, secure, and productive. Here, you'll find innovation, stability, and the chance to grow your career as part of a team that's always looking ahead.

Rite-Hite is seeking a Design Engineer to join our team. This position is responsible for the designing of products that meet the criteria set forth, and supporting products after production introduction.

This is a Hybrid role based out of Dubuque, IA.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Manage broad and complex tasks/projects in accordance with the Rite-Hite Stage Gate design process.
  • Provide professional leadership to members of the project team.
  • Aggressively pursue participation, feedback and concurrences from all sources which have influence on the project.
  • Take a leadership role in the development of product requirements, concepts and prototypes.
  • Conceptualize designs as relating to product definitions.
  • Design parts/products for prototyping/production.
  • Perform mathematical verification and modeling of designs.
  • Analyze components or systems for design life and performance.
  • Write test plans and direct tests to verify analysis.
  • Design test stands.
  • Develop new product cost estimates with cost accounting.
  • Coordinate with suppliers.
  • Write purchase specifications.
  • Create CAD drawings and models for concepts, prototyping, and testing.
  • Review drawings and models for accuracy.
  • Design tooling and fixtures.
  • Prepare and deliver presentations to project teams and management as required.
  • Support production, customer service, applications, special order engineering and aftermarket engineering.
  • Perform failure analysis.
  • Visit customer sites as necessary to evaluate and troubleshoot product
  • Create or direct engineering change notices and sign for technical acceptance.
  • Follow all established procedures, standards and policies.
  • Maintain a professional working atmosphere.
  • Responsible for executing and supporting the quality system and procedures in the effort for continuous improvement.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • Manage broad and complex tasks/projects.
  • Design and analyze components or systems for design life and performance, failure analysis.
  • Write test plans and direct testing.
  • Create or direct ECN's.
  • Design tooling and fixtures.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's degree (B. S.) from four year college or university in mechanical engineering; with at least two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience as demonstrated by PE certification.

What We Offer

At Rite-Hite, we take care of our people - because when you're supported, you can do your best work. Our benefits are designed to support your health, your future and your life outside of work:

  • Health & Well-being: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life and disability insurance. A robust well-being program with an opportunity to receive an extra day off and more.

  • Financial Security: A strong retirement savings program with 401(k), company match, and profit sharing.

  • Time for You: Paid holidays, vacation time, and personal/sick days each year.

Join us and build a career where you're supported - at work and beyond.

Rite-Hite is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. In accordance with VEVRAA, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for protected veterans. We are also committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace for the safety of our employees and customers.

What Rite-Hite employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Rite-Hite

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rite-Hite is the global leader in the manufacture and distribution of industrial loading dock and door equipment. Our innovative products and world class sales organization ensure solid, consistent growth, both for our company and our staff.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

Year founded

1965

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