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Engineering Design Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services ...

Puck Enterprises

Product Design Engineer I

Manning, IA · On-site

$121K - $146K/yr

... Management * Business Acumen * Communication Proficiency * Professionalism Required Education & Experience: * High school diploma or GED or higher * Minimum 3 years of related design engineering ...

Puck Enterprises

Product Design Engineer I

Manning, IA · On-site

$121K - $146K/yr

... Management * Business Acumen * Communication Proficiency * Professionalism Required Education & Experience: * High school diploma or GED or higher * Minimum 3 years of related design engineering ...

Puck Enterprises

Product Design Engineer I

Manning, IA · On-site

$121K - $146K/yr

... Management * Business Acumen * Communication Proficiency * Professionalism Required Education & Experience: * High school diploma or GED or higher * Minimum 3 years of related design engineering ...

Deloitte

Manager, UX Product Design

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$113K/yr

As a Manager, UX Product Designer for the Deloitte DT-US Product Engineering team, you will be tasked with solving complex challenges through elegant, user-centered design solutions. Our ideal ...

Design Hire LLC

Project Engineer

Des Moines, IA

Sustainable materials and waste management programs * Civil design, project documentation, and construction support Key Responsibilities * Support engineering design, permitting, reporting, and ...

Deloitte

Senior Manager, UX Design Lead

Davenport, IA · On-site

$110K/yr

As an Experience Design specialist for Deloitte's DT-US Product Engineering team, you will be ... Work with design, research, program management, and product leaders on process for product ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsEngineering Design Manager JobsEngineering Design Manager Jobs in Iowa

Engineering Design Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$49.3K

$126.3K

$194.9K

How much do engineering design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering design manager in Iowa is $126,299.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,400.00 and $140,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Engineering Design Manager vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEngineering Design ManagerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with management certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, oversees projects, collaborates with cross-functional departmentsDesigns, analyzes, and tests mechanical systems, often working in labs or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and engineering firms for leadership rolesCommon in product design, manufacturing, and R&D sectors

The Engineering Design Manager focuses on leading design teams and managing projects, requiring leadership skills and project management experience. In contrast, Mechanical Engineers are involved in the technical design and analysis of mechanical systems. Both roles often require similar engineering credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What does a design engineering manager do?

A design engineering manager oversees the development and execution of engineering designs, ensuring projects meet technical specifications, quality standards, and deadlines. They coordinate teams of engineers, review design plans, and utilize CAD software, often requiring leadership and project management skills. Their role involves balancing technical expertise with team management to deliver innovative and efficient engineering solutions.

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

To thrive as an Engineering Design Manager, you need a strong background in engineering principles, project management, and team leadership, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering and relevant industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software, PLM systems, and certifications such as PMP or PE are commonly required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to inspire and coordinate multidisciplinary teams make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering innovative design solutions, meeting project deadlines, and ensuring effective collaboration across the organization.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineering roles such as software engineers, petroleum engineers, and aerospace engineers can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive-level engineering managers and technical directors may also earn this level of compensation, often including bonuses and stock options.

How much should an engineering manager be paid?

The salary for an engineering design manager typically ranges from $100,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior managers with specialized skills or working in high-cost areas can earn higher compensation, often including bonuses and stock options.

What does an Engineering Design Manager do?

An Engineering Design Manager oversees the design process for engineering projects, coordinating teams of engineers and designers to ensure that project goals are met efficiently and effectively. They are responsible for planning, organizing, and reviewing design work, ensuring compliance with industry standards and client requirements. Additionally, they often liaise with clients, stakeholders, and other departments to align the design vision with project specifications and timelines. Their leadership is crucial in solving technical challenges and delivering innovative solutions within budget.

What are the main challenges an Engineering Design Manager faces when balancing project deadlines with innovation?

Engineering Design Managers often need to ensure that their teams deliver high-quality designs within tight project timelines while also encouraging creativity and innovation. One of the main challenges is managing stakeholder expectations and resource constraints, as pushing for innovative solutions can sometimes require more time and iterative testing. Effective communication, prioritization, and fostering a collaborative environment help address these challenges, ensuring that projects remain on schedule without stifling new ideas. Managers frequently coordinate between engineering teams, clients, and other departments to align goals and keep projects moving forward.

What Does an Engineering Design Manager Do?

The job duties of an engineering design manager include overseeing a team of engineers and CAD designers on engineering projects. In addition to providing leadership to staff, in this career, you manage the budget planning for each project, work with concept development, and ensure that plans meet company or client needs and engineering standards. You offer guidance throughout the design process and inspect and sign off on design plans to ensure that they meet quality standards. As a manager, you are also responsible for providing effective staffing strategies and workflow.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineering roles such as Software Engineering Managers, Principal Engineers, and Engineering Directors can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like technology, aerospace, and finance. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities, with compensation including base salary, bonuses, and stock options.
More about Engineering Design Manager jobs
What are popular job titles related to Engineering Design Manager jobs in Iowa? For Engineering Design Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Engineering Design Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Engineering Design Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Engineering Design Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Engineering Design Manager job openings:
Engineering Design Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engineering Design Manager job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,299 per year, or $60.7 per hour.
CAD Designer

CAD Designer

WesTech Engineering

Ames, IA • On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

WesTech Engineering rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 355 rated engineering

Job description

Our mission at WesTech is to help communities thrive by delivering high-quality water solutions with superior service - safely and sustainably. To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services and more.
As one of the leading operating brands of Swire Water, our values of integrity, humility, endeavor, excellence and continuity make this an outstanding working environment. Our continuing success creates attractive opportunities for purpose-driven professionals to develop new skills, support vital industries, and grow their careers.
Summary
WesTech is in search of a CAD Designer to participate in automated drafting activities for the purpose of laying out and preparing structural, mechanical & engineering drawings for new or existing water, wastewater & industrial equipment, and systems.
Some of the work you will do:
  • Draws structural, mechanical and engineering details of equipment, structures, and more using Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Vault Professional.
  • 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 produce accurate drawings
  • Maintains sets of drawings and drawing changes
  • Prepares a variety of detail drawings that are clear & complete the first time
  • Creates detail drawings from sketches or layouts
  • Changes design to meet required specifications
  • Works from verbal instructions and sketches
  • Be aware of budget and schedule constraints on all work. Make every effort to complete assignment on time and on schedule
  • Visually compare design of components or other equipment, with drawing of parts; matching coordinating points for accuracy of fit
  • Other duties as assigned or requested

Here are the skills that you need:
  • Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor or other 3D CAD software
  • Knowledge of design concepts, planning, modeling techniques, standard plans and specifications, and engineering and drafting practices
  • Ability to prepare layouts, and drawings neatly, accurately, and legibly
  • Ability to make accurate drawings to scale from field notes, design drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions
  • Ability to make mathematical calculations related to the work
  • Ability to maintain records and drawings relative to the work
  • Ability to communicate effectively

Here are the skills and qualifications that will set you apart:
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
  • six or more years of related experience
  • Complex CAD model management
  • CAD library management
  • Ability to teach and mentor others
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of AutoCAD, and Inventor, AND CREO
  • Experience working in Team environment
  • Structural Detailing and GDT experience
  • Knowledge of steel fabrication
  • Familiarity with AISC steel manual
  • Familiarity with detailing of piping, fittings, valves, instruments
  • Knowledge and use of iLogic and other automation features of Autodesk Inventor
  • Experience with Autodesk Vault

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to work at desk computer/phone system.
  • Some lifting may be involved, (50 lbs), specifically when in the warehouse area(s)
  • May be required to be clean-shaven for proper respiratory equipment
  • When at job sites will be required to inspect equipment. This may involve:

    • Bending/stooping/walking on ladders, walkways, catwalks, (may involve heights)
    • Exposure to elements; cold, heat, wet, and/or dark. May be in a safety harness
    • When in fabrication shop, may involve utilizing hands in and around mechanical parts

Benefits and perks we offer:
  • Competitive salary and performance-based annual bonuses
  • Dollar for dollar 401K match of 6%
  • Flexible work hours, hybrid schedules with remote work options
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package
  • Company HSA contribution, Paid Parental Leave, Employee Assistance Program
  • Company-paid Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Long-term Disability
  • PTO plan and Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

WesTech considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
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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