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Design Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Doist

Senior Electrical Design Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Senior Electrical Controls Engineer In this role you will work with the electrical , mechanical, process and controls teams at Redwood Materials. You will review and design electrical controls ...

Jobtailor

Electrical Project Designer, Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Lead design efforts for the analysis of electrical systems, utilizing engineering software and tools to create detailed designs, specifications, and calculations according to code requirements and ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other sources such as part catalogs to find additional data * Work as a member of a design team * Interprets contract drawings & specifications to ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other sources such as part catalogs to find additional data * Work as a member of a design team * Interprets contract drawings & specifications to ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other sources such as part catalogs to find additional data * Work as a member of a design team * Interprets contract drawings & specifications to ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other sources such as part catalogs to find additional data * Work as a member of a design team * Interprets contract drawings & specifications to ...

Baker Group

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

PURPOSE The Senior Electrical Engineer serves as a subject matter expert in electrical systems ... Technical Leadership & Design * Serve as lead electrical designer for assigned projects from ...

Mannik Smith Group

Senior Drainage Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$130 - $180/hr

Design and analysis of roadway and regional flood control facilities * Prepare clear and accurate ... Professional Engineering (PE) licensure * 8 - 15+ years of professional hydraulics design ...

Mannik Smith Group

Senior Traffic Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$130 - $180/hr

Senior Traffic Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Reno, NV ... Design and analysis of striping, signing, signals and lighting, traffic control, ITS, and other ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA

$87K/yr

Collect data from client and stakeholders by engaging in programming, surveys, focus groups, charrette exercises, and benchmarking to maximize design outcomes and occupant satisfaction. Cushman ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA

$87K/yr

Collect data from client and stakeholders by engaging in programming, surveys, focus groups, charrette exercises, and benchmarking to maximize design outcomes and occupant satisfaction. Cushman ...

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All JobsDesign Engineer JobsDesign Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA

Design Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$39.6K

$86.2K

$155K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Ames, IA is $86,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $96,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design engineer?

Design engineers develop ideas for new products and determine ways to improve existing products. As a design engineer, you put a creative perspective on your technical engineering knowledge to perform your job duties, which include creating sketches of design ideas and using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to generate plans for prototypes. To ensure the product is viable, you also evaluate other aspects of the product design, such as safety, cost, sustainability, aesthetics, and user experience. You collaborate with a team of technicians and other engineers to run tests, troubleshoot problems, and ultimately produce a newly designed product.

What does a design engineer do?

A Design Engineer is responsible for creating and developing new products, systems, or structures by combining engineering principles with creative design. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed drawings and specifications, working closely with other engineers and teams to ensure functionality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Design Engineers are involved in every stage of product development, from initial concept through prototyping, testing, and final production. Their work often requires problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly.

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

To thrive as a Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with teams and translating ideas into workable designs. These abilities ensure innovative, efficient, and manufacturable solutions that meet both technical and client requirements.

How does a design engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Design Engineers regularly work alongside teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and product management to ensure that designs are both innovative and feasible for production. Collaboration often involves participating in cross-functional meetings, reviewing prototypes, and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders. This teamwork is essential to address technical and practical challenges early in the design process, which ultimately helps in delivering a successful product to market. Strong communication and adaptability are key skills for thriving in this collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDesign EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Design certifications often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, project planningManufacturing plants, labs, fieldwork, CAD and testing
Employer & Industry UsageProduct design firms, automotive, aerospace, consumer goodsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Design Engineers focus on creating and developing product designs using CAD tools, while Mechanical Engineers often work on the broader application, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Design Engineers typically emphasize design skills and software proficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers may engage more in analysis and system integration.

What jobs can a design engineer do?

A design engineer creates and develops new products, systems, or structures across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing. They use CAD software, perform simulations, and collaborate with teams to ensure functionality and safety. Design engineers often work in research and development, product design, or process improvement roles.
More about Design Engineer jobs

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For Design Engineer jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,227 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Industrial Design Engineer

The Reserves Network Inc

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Industrial Design Engineer | $75,000 to $95,000 | Full Time | Direct Hire

What Matters Most
• Competitive base salary of $75,000 to $95,000
• Locations: Ankeny, Iowa or Kansas City, Missouri
• Full time direct hire opportunity with long term career growth
• Join a growing engineering team supporting industrial facility design and construction projects
• Opportunity to work on food processing, grain handling, feed manufacturing, seed processing, and industrial manufacturing facilities
• Collaborative culture that values teamwork, humility, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off

Job Description
Our client is growing and looking to add an experienced Industrial Design Engineer who can make an immediate impact on active engineering projects. This is an opportunity to join a collaborative team supporting the design and construction of complex industrial facilities while working alongside Project Managers, Engineers, Architects, and field personnel. If you enjoy solving technical challenges, creating innovative design solutions, and seeing projects come to life, this is an excellent opportunity to build a long term career with a growing organization.

Responsibilities:
• Develop detailed engineering drawings, Revit models, construction documents, and production plans for industrial facility projects
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Engineers, Architects, Contractors, and field teams to optimize designs and resolve technical challenges
• Prepare bills of material, cost estimates, engineering change documentation, RFIs, submittals, and technical specifications
• Perform design calculations, evaluate constructability, review applicable building codes, and support value engineering initiatives
• Support product development, prototype testing, continuous improvement efforts, and project documentation throughout the project lifecycle

Qualifications and Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Civil Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline preferred
• Five or more years of engineering or design experience with industrial facilities, manufacturing, food processing, agricultural processing, grain handling, or similar industrial environments
• Proficiency with Revit, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office. Experience with Inventor, Navisworks, and BIM software is a plus
• Ability to contribute immediately with minimal supervision while managing multiple priorities
• Ability to travel up to 25 percent as project needs require

Benefits and Perks:
• Base salary of $75,000 to $95,000
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Your New Organization:
Our client is a growing engineering and construction organization experiencing increased demand across its Industrial Division. As project volume continues to expand, they are investing in experienced engineering talent to strengthen an already successful team. The company values humility, collaboration, strong character, and continuous improvement, providing engineers with the opportunity to contribute immediately while building rewarding long term careers.

Your Career Partner:
The Reserves Network, a veteran founded and family owned company, specializes in connecting exceptional talent with rewarding opportunities. With extensive industry experience, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your professional goals and shine in your field. The Reserves Network values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, we foster an environment of respect, integrity, and trust in every aspect of employment.

The base salary range for this position is $75,000 to $95,000, excluding benefits, bonuses, or other compensation. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, technical expertise, and internal pay equity. Please note that hiring at the top of the range is uncommon to allow room for future salary growth.
Reserves Network logo

About Reserves Network

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Reserves Network is more than a temporary staffing company. We are a leading provider of flexible staffing services, including temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire placements to create Total Staffing Solutions. We take care of our people - our customers, the communities we serve and, of course, each other. This is what makes us different. This is what makes us great.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fairview Park, OH, US

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