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Design Engineer Jobs in Lafayette, IN (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Mechanical Engineer In this role, you will work on mechanical design and product development projects while serving as a key link between engineering and factory operations. You will be responsible ...

Walker Transport

Manager, CAD

Lafayette, IN

Support the engineering data management roadmap -- serve as the CAD team's representative in data system planning and rollout, and drive adoption of data management standards within the team * Lead ...

Caterpillar

Manufacturing Project Engineer

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$128K - $192K/yr

Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Knowledge of tools and techniques of specialized graphics programs; ability to produce, analyze, simulate and test product design drafts. Level Extensive ...

Caterpillar

Manufacturing Project Engineer

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$128K - $192K/yr

Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Knowledge of tools and techniques of specialized graphics programs; ability to produce, analyze, simulate and test product design drafts. Level Extensive ...

Caterpillar

Manufacturing Project Engineer

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$128K - $192K/yr

Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Knowledge of tools and techniques of specialized graphics programs; ability to produce, analyze, simulate and test product design drafts. Level Extensive ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDesign Engineer JobsDesign Engineer Jobs in Lafayette, IN

Design Engineer information

See Lafayette, IN salary details

$39K

$84.8K

$152.5K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Lafayette, IN is $84,812.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,400.00 and $94,800.00 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN?

For Design Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Lafayette, IN are:

What cities near Lafayette, IN are hiring for Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Lafayette, IN with the most Design Engineer job openings:

Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Lafayette, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,812 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Lafayette, IN • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility in Lafayette, IN.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Mechanical Engineer
In this role, you will work on mechanical design and product development projects while serving as a key link between engineering and factory operations. You will be responsible for creating and refining mechanical components, supporting new product development, and ensuring design integrity throughout the manufacturing process. Additionally, you will provide hands-on support to resolve build issues, troubleshoot component quality concerns, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain smooth production. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine design engineering expertise with practical problem-solving in a world-class manufacturing environment.
Job Description
  • Participate in design and product development projects, creating and refining mechanical components and systems.
  • Provide technical support for factory operations, troubleshooting issues related to engine builds and component quality.
  • Provide support and troubleshooting for current production.
  • Ability to understand, assess and select issues directly related to design or as received quality
  • Investigate, gather and analyze data and implement solutions.
  • Ability to inspect and accept/reject parts using basic measuring tools (calipers, mics, etc.) or gauges

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • Exposure to manufacturing, operations, parts logistics, quality, or technology
  • Demonstrates a strong mechanical aptitude through work experience or hobbies.
  • Problem solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Must be a self-starter, good communication skills, able to thrive in a collaborative environment.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.

Desired Experience
  • Experience in a production environment working with cross functional teams.
  • Experience with manufacturing, fabrication, or assembly operations.
  • Database Management.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Salary Range: $65,000-$80,000 Commensurate with Experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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