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Design Engineer Jobs in Ankeny, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Experience with SolidWorks CAD software * Experience with PLM PDM/PLM systems * Experience with ASME Y14.5 Dimensioning and Tolerancing Standard * Experience with manufacturing in an Aerospace ...

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Civil Design Engineer We are seeking a Civil Design Engineer to support the planning, design, and development of a variety of civil engineering projects. In this role, you will be responsible for ...

Civil Design Engineer We are seeking a Civil Design Engineer to support the planning, design, and development of a variety of civil engineering projects. In this role, you will be responsible for ...

R&D Product Design Engineer

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$91K - $141K/yr

Analyzes and recommends engineering or design solutions for product, process, design, or other technical challenges. * Capable of leading cross-functional teams having broader, less-defined initial ...

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Design Engineer information

See Ankeny, IA salary details

$38K

$82.6K

$148.5K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Ankeny, IA is $82,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,700.00 and $92,300.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA are:

What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA are:

What cities near Ankeny, IA are hiring for Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ankeny, IA with the most Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Ankeny, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,620 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Experienced Bridge Design Engineer

Snyder & Associates

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview
Snyder & Associates, Inc. is a well-established civil and structural engineering consulting firm delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions to public and private clients throughout the Midwest. As communities continue to grow and infrastructure evolves, we're expanding Shuck-Britson (SBI), our integrated structural engineering team.
SBI has built its reputation by solving complex structural challenges with practical, experience-driven engineering. Today, as Snyder's dedicated structural engineering team, SBI combines decades of specialized expertise with the resources of a full-service engineering firm. Our engineers partner with transportation agencies, municipalities, businesses, architects, and contractors on projects ranging from bridge design and rehabilitation to buildings, specialty structures, and historic preservation.
We're looking for an Experienced Bridge Design Engineer to join our structural team in Des Moines. This is an opportunity for an experienced bridge engineer to play a visible role in projects that support Iowa's transportation network - from local municipal bridges to work in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Transportation and other regional partners. Based in our Des Moines office, you'll contribute technical expertise, build client relationships, and help strengthen our growing bridge practice in Central Iowa.
Responsibilities
What You'll Do:
  • Lead and support the analysis, planning, and design of bridge and transportation structure projects
  • Prepare bridge designs, plans, specifications, and technical reports
  • Collaborate closely with the Iowa DOT, municipalities, counties, and internal civil engineering teams
  • Support projects through construction, including coordination, field review, and problem-solving
  • Contribute to project planning, schedules, budgets, and quality control
  • Mentor junior staff and contribute to the continued growth of our Iowa structures team

Qualifications
What We're Looking For:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis
  • 5+ years of experience designing bridge projects in the U.S.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred (or ability to obtain in Iowa)
  • Experience working with state DOT standards and procedures
  • Demonstrated progressive responsibility and technical growth
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to manage priorities and deliver projects on scope, budget, and schedule
  • A collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset with interest in long-term professional growth

Why Snyder & Associates?
  • Ownership at Snyder & Associates is held by employee shareholders, fostering a culture of accountability and long-term commitment
  • Local decision-making - not driven by private equity or absentee investors
  • Meaningful projects that serve Iowa communities and strengthen regional infrastructure
  • Strong relationships with public agencies and long-standing municipal clients
  • Opportunities for technical leadership, project ownership, and continued professional growth
  • Stable, respected firm with deep roots in Iowa
  • Supportive culture that values teamwork, integrity, and long-term partnerships

Life At Snyder
Snyder & Associates has grown to become a large regional civil engineering and planning firm in the Midwest. With thirteen office locations in five states, the communities we serve are the same places we proudly call home. For us, it's about more than just the project at hand. It's about improving community quality of life, which is why 94 percent of our existing clients continue to trust us as an extension of their staff. Watch the Snyder & Associates About Us Video to learn more. You'll also find a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere that encourages connection, celebrates achievements, and offers opportunities to engage with the community and bring engineering to life outside the office, empowering you to grow your career while making a difference in the places we proudly call home.
Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify employer.