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Engineering Design Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

WesTech Engineering

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/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 ...

Soap Creek Resources

Design/Project Lead

Hampton, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Education & Experience: * 1-5+ years of experience in construction engineering, design, or drafting * Degree not required, relevant ...

Soap Creek Resources

Design/Project Lead

Hampton, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Education & Experience: * 1-5+ years of experience in construction engineering, design, or drafting * Degree not required, relevant ...

WesTech Engineering

Project Engineer 2

Ames, IA · On-site

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

Project Engineer 2

Ames, IA · On-site +1

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 ...

FTHR

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA · On-site

The ideal candidate will combine strong engineering fundamentals with practical knowledge of design ... Project management experience and ability to manage multiple design projects At Featherlite Exiss ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA

... 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 ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA

... 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 ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... 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 ...

Invio Automation

Design Engineer

Eldridge, IA

... drawings, and engineering specifications. Design Engineers require the ability to work independently and at times manage small-scaled projects from start to finish. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

LCS

Senior Project Manager

Des Moines, IA

$98K - $122K/yr

Review design documents and report comments to the Design Manager. * Other duties may include ... Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Business, Construction Management, Engineering, Real Estate or ...

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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 May 30, 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 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 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 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 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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,299 per year, or $60.7 per hour.
Student Drafter

Student Drafter

WesTech Engineering

Ames, IA • On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 18 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 350 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 seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Student Drafter to join our engineering team. This position is ideal for someone with a passion for design and engineering who is eager to contribute to our diverse projects. The successful candidate will work closely with our engineers and senior designers to create detailed drawings and models that meet project specifications and industry standards.
Some of the work you will do:
  • Develop and prepare detailed CAD drawings from sketches, specifications, and verbal instructions
  • Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software
  • Assist in the design and layout of water treatment equipment and systems
  • Collaborate with engineers and project managers to ensure designs are accurate and meet project requirements
  • Revise drawings and models based on feedback from mentors, engineers, and clients
  • Assist other designers in maintaining organized records of all drawings and project documentation
  • Participate in project meetings and contribute to the development of design solutions
  • Assist with ensuring designs comply with company standards, industry codes, and safety regulations.
  • Monitor progress to keep projects on schedule and report any potential delays

Here are the skills that you need:
  • Currently enrolled and active in Sophomore or Junior year of CAD related 4-year degree
  • 0-1 years of experience in CAD design (internships or co-op experience considered)
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of common CAD applications (AutoCAD or Solidworks)
  • Understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with drafting terminology
  • Knowledge of nomenclature and conventional symbols of structural, mechanical, and engineering drawings
  • Knowledge of trigonometry, geometry, and general mathematics used in CAD work
  • Detail, accuracy, and outcome-oriented
  • Excellent verbal and written communications including the ability to prepare drawing from a variety of written and verbal instructions
  • Team player who collaborates well with internal and external customers

Here are the skills and qualifications that will set you apart:
  • Associate's Degree or equivalent work experience
  • Recommendations from faculty in CAD program attesting to good work ethic and potential CAD skill expertise
  • Two or more years of related experience outside of education
  • Familiarity with CAD model management
  • CAD library management
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of AutoCAD, and Inventor, AND CREO

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-shaved for proper respiratory equipment.

Benefits and perks we offer:
  • Competitive salary and performance-based annual bonuses
  • Flexible work hours, hybrid schedules with remote work options
  • PTO plan and Paid Holidays
  • 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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