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Design Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

These detailed technical drawings incorporate the input of engineers, project managers, and most importantly, the customer. The Design Engineer translates their ideas, rough sketches, and ...

These detailed technical drawings incorporate the input of engineers, project managers, and most importantly, the customer. The Design Engineer translates their ideas, rough sketches, and ...

The Design Lead is also responsible for managing and mentoring all design roles at all levels across the agency. Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a ...

The Design Lead is also responsible for managing and mentoring all design roles at all levels across the agency. Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a ...

Design Engineers require the ability to work independently and at times manage small-scaled projects from start to finish. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Design complex welding and machining ...

Design Engineers require the ability to work independently and at times manage small-scaled projects from start to finish. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Design complex welding and machining ...

Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects * Ability to work on multiple ... Perform engineering calculations and design analysis, including FEA * Ability to read and interpret ...

Design Engineer Ankeny, IA- Full Time Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com) is seeking ... Deliver small- or medium-scale projects within established management plans. * Participate in ...

You will report to the Manager, Project Management NAM. The Opportunity JBT Marel is looking for a Design Engineer in Des Moines, IA. The Design Engineer is responsible for creating optimal solutions ...

Design Engineer Ankeny, IA- Full Time Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com) is seeking ... Deliver small- or medium-scale projects within established management plans. * Participate in ...

You will report to the Manager, Project Management NAM. The Opportunity JBT Marel is looking for a Design Engineer in Des Moines, IA. The Design Engineer is responsible for creating optimal solutions ...

The equipment we make manages natural resources, connects people and feeds and fuels communities ... In this role you will research, design, build, and test new equipment. We're looking for someone to ...

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Design Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$39.4K

$107.5K

$189.3K

How much do design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for design manager in Iowa is $107,537.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $135,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Design Manager in Construction Do?

A design manager oversees a design team during a project and typically works in the construction and architecture industries. As a design manager, you may work for specialty companies that contract out to construction firms on a per-project basis. Or, you may spend your career working as an in-house design manager for a construction company or architect firm. Regardless of the location of your job as a design manager, your duties revolve around supervising the design of a building project and include adhering to legislation and codes, eliminating safety and financial risks, and advising clients during development.

How does a Design Manager typically balance creative vision with project deadlines and client expectations?

A Design Manager is responsible for guiding their team's creative direction while ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. This often means carefully prioritizing tasks, setting clear milestones, and communicating regularly with clients and stakeholders to manage expectations. They serve as a bridge between creative teams and project managers, helping to resolve conflicts and maintain a productive workflow. By fostering open collaboration and providing constructive feedback, Design Managers help ensure both the creative vision and practical project requirements are met.

What are Design Managers?

Design Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design process within a project or organization. They coordinate and lead design teams, ensure design objectives align with business goals, and manage timelines, budgets, and resources. Design Managers often act as a bridge between creative teams and other departments, facilitating communication and ensuring that the final product meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. Their role can span across industries such as architecture, graphic design, product design, and digital media.

What is the difference between Design Manager vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign ManagerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, management experienceBachelor's degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, oversees projectsCreates visual content, works independently or in teams
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, agency, and studio settingsCommon in advertising, publishing, branding

The main difference between a Design Manager and a Graphic Designer lies in their responsibilities and scope. Design Managers oversee design teams and strategic project planning, while Graphic Designers focus on creating visual content. Both roles require relevant design credentials, but Design Managers also need leadership experience. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

To thrive as a Design Manager, you need a strong background in design principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a degree in design or a related field and several years of design experience. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools like Asana or Trello is essential. Exceptional communication, team leadership, and problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively leading creative teams, delivering high-quality design outcomes, and meeting client or organizational goals.
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 Manager jobs in Iowa? For Design Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Design Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Design Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Design Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Manager job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,537 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Role DefinitionThe Design Engineer supports the engineering team by creating plans and designs followed by construction workers, architects, and manufacturers. These detailed technical drawings incorporate the input of engineers, project managers, and most importantly, the customer. The Design Engineer translates their ideas, rough sketches, and specifications into general production and installation drawings used in the fabrication and installation of company products and projects.

They will contribute to the preparation of design and bid documents, phasing drawings, as-built drawings, marketing support information, and construction sketches. They will be challenged with projects from different industries and will thrive in this environment by working with design principles, varied construction material types and properties, and manufacturing processes. This role profile is subject to change at any time.PROTECT PEOPLE Safety comes first in everything I do I protect our seat at the table by doing my best work I develop myself and others I put the needs of the Company and others above my own I represent myself and the Company professionally at all times BUILD RELATIONSHIPS I respect people I have a positive attitude I collaborate and build healthy external relationships I collaborate and build healthy internal relationships I engage in healthy conflict I act with honesty, integrity, and ethics I avoid dramatic and toxic behavior FOCUS ON END GOALS I focus my efforts on providing value-added work to the customer; work in the business I start with the end in mind I honor our process I act with the greater good of the company and the team in mind I embrace the EOS process and take the appropriate amount of time to 'work on the business' I respect Company resources DRIVE INNOVATION I offer 2 Second Lean improvements I act with a continuous improvement mindset; low tech or high tech I think differently to create value and solve problems Top 5 role responsibilites:Process Documentation (PFDs) Perform job site observations and report deficiencies, non-conformance, safety issues, quality control issues, and opportunities for improvement to the senior-most project manager on an assigned project

Collaborate with engineers to solve design issues when they arise. Comply with Risk Management Programs applicable to assigned projects including contracts, and any special owner or regulatory requirements. Identify areas of risk, investigate, and propose solutions.

Coordinate project leader or supervisor on special product projects, product development, and redesign projects as assigned. Apply and understand the design to develop products that conform to Keen quality standards and philosophy. Provide cost estimates and bills of material for all non-configurable orders.

Initiate and manage RFQs and RFPNs; coordinate with suppliers; write purchase specifications for components and materials. Provide support for the technical workers who contribute to the building of our structures and products. The individual directs efforts for Keen drafting, forecasting, and other technical activities relating to the project.

Prepare high-quality contract documents and specifications throughout the schematic, design, design development, and construction document phases. Demonstrate experience in the implementation of concept design solutions through the architectural contract documents and construction administration phases. Prepare engineering change documentation.

Research and analyze customer design proposals to evaluate the feasibility, cost, or maintenance requirements. Design Evolution Tracking Analyze and incorporate building codes, by-laws, space and site requirements, and other technical documents to determine effect on architectural designs. Analyze problems through data analysis, field returns, and experimentation to create more robust designs to reduce service incidence rates.

Critique designs for safety, manufacturability, failure modes, customer usage, and functionality. Integrate new technology or environmentally friendly practices into existing processes. Research, design, and evaluate equipment, systems, and processes to meet requirements.

Develop and obtain prototype parts for testing and pre-production activities. Revit Modeling Specialize in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical drafting and design plans, blueprints, and drawings to create schematics that can be viewed, printed, or programmed directly into building information modeling (BIM) systems. Develop complete and accurate electronic working plans, elevations, details, charts, and/or revisions from existing drawings, measurements, sketches, specifications, etc.

Specify dimensions, materials, and procedures for new products. Build layouts, elevations, sections, and field connections during the shop drawing process for both structural and architectural projects. Resolve discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information through collaboration with the CAD department, structural analysts, project managers, and engineers.

Develop and modify designs and drawings for mechanical components and subsystems, materials, or complete products using Revit and other software. Design calculations for component sizing and constraint identification Interpret design concepts to ensure safety, structural integrity, and quality. Must possess an outstanding skillset in sketching, rendering, concept presentation, and computer-aided design.

Demonstrate proficiency in technical drawings and required to solve mathematical calculations involving factors such as angles, weights, and costs. Prepare layouts that show the details for a wide variety of machinery and mechanical tools and devices. These layouts indicate dimensions, fastening methods, and other requirements needed for assembly.

Design team collaboration tasks- rfis and submittals on procore Work closely with internal team, architects, consultants, contractors, directly hired tradespersons, and others related to the project to obtain technical details, optimize designs, and resolve issues. Build teams to effectively manage projects, resolve design issues, answer questions, solve production problems, and make sure that final plans are accurate. Communicate effectively with team, vendors, architects, engineers, general contractors, and field personnel to produce drawings.

This collaboration may be on the job site when needed. Communicate directly with team to design, cost, and document special products. Other responsibilities Provide basic support for all other departments as needed, along with other assigned duties.

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS Bachelors degree in a related science field such as Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering preferred.Combined experience and industry educational certifications to demonstrate competency considered. Minimum 5+ years of experience. Certification of completion in Professional Engineer License (P.Eng), Certified Professional Engineer (PE), Fundamentals of Engineering (FE), Engineer in Training (EIT), Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE), and/or Lean Qualifications or willing to obtain

Working knowledge of basic computer programs like Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, and on-line collaboration tools. Proficient in Autodesk/Plant Design Suite products like Revit and AutoCAD is desired, with knowledge of Inventor, Navisworks, etc., beneficial. Travel up to 25% or as needed, by air and ground

PHYSICAL DEMANDS Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly. Continuously requires vision, hearing, twisting, and talking. Frequently requires standing, fine dexterity, sitting, and handling.

Must be able to ascend and descend ladders, scaffolds, stairs, and work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud equipment. Must be able to position one-self to work in confined spaces such as trenches, pits, manholes, attics, and tunnels. Must be able to respond quickly to sounds.

Must be able to move safely over uneven terrain or in confined spaces. Must be able to see and respond to dangerous situations. Must be able to wear personal protective gear most of the day.

Must be able to work in cold/hot environments and on concrete floors. Occasionally requires walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, kneeling, pushing/pulling, bending, and crouching. Continuously requires vision, hearing, twisting, and talking.

Must be able to traverse irregular and steep terrain. Must be able to stand for extended durations. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position at this time.Keen Project Solutionsis anAffirmative Action andEqual Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment (minorities, females, veterans, individuals with disabilities, sexual orientation, or other protected categoriesin accordance withstate andfederal laws).Keenis a drug andalcohol-freeworkplaceand background checks arerequiredif applicable.Benefits and additional Company Information is located on the career section of our website. https://thinkdifferentthinkkeen.com/careers