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Freelance Electrical Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa

DLR Group

Senior Electrical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

As a Senior Electrical Engineer at DLR Group you will be responsible for the design of electrical systems from schematics through construction administration on a wide range of building types. As ...

Talent Solutions

Senior Electrical Engineer

Ames, IA

$105K - $137K/yr

Design and coordinate power distribution, lighting, lighting controls, and low-voltage systems. * Develop electrical construction documents and specifications using Autodesk Revit. * Lead projects ...

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer As a Mechanical Design Engineer in this role, you will be responsible ... electrical, and cabs). You will work with various stakeholders to understand function and ...

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All JobsElectrical Design Engineer JobsFreelance Electrical Design Engineer JobsFreelance Electrical Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Freelance Electrical Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$48.4K

$94.9K

$139K

How much do freelance electrical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance electrical design engineer in Iowa is $94,933.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance electrical design engineer do?

A Freelance Electrical Design Engineer is a professional who specializes in designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components for various projects on a contract or project basis. Their work can include creating electrical schematics, selecting appropriate components, ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standards, and collaborating with other engineers or clients to meet project requirements. Freelance engineers enjoy flexibility in choosing projects and clients, but are also responsible for managing their own business operations such as invoicing and client communication.

What does a freelance electrical design engineer do?

The job of a freelance electrical design engineer is to help bring a project plan from concept to manufacturing, typically on a contract basis. Someone in this role may help determine the equipment and materials needed to produce the product, design its power supply and any energy storage, and help prototype the product to verify that it works. Electrical engineering can take a wide variety of forms, such as designing an electronic toy or creating a power layout plan for a large building. Although similar job titles, a freelance electrical design engineer and an electrical engineer perform separate functions. A design engineer focuses on the design concept, while the duties of an engineer concentrate more on the actual manufacturing of a project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance electrical design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Electrical Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, proficiency in circuit design, and typically a relevant degree or professional certification such as a PE license. Expertise with CAD software (like AutoCAD or Altium Designer), simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards are essential. Strong project management, problem-solving abilities, and clear client communication help distinguish top professionals in this freelance role. These combined skills ensure the delivery of safe, compliant, and innovative electrical solutions that meet client needs and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance electrical design engineers, and how can they be managed?

Freelance electrical design engineers often encounter challenges such as fluctuating workloads, managing multiple client expectations, and staying updated with industry standards and software. To manage these, it's helpful to establish clear communication with clients, set realistic project timelines, and invest in continuous learning for new tools and regulations. Building a network of industry contacts can also provide support and potential collaboration opportunities, helping freelancers maintain steady work and deliver quality results.

What is the difference between Freelance Electrical Design Engineer vs Electrical Project Engineer?

AspectFreelance Electrical Design EngineerElectrical Project Engineer
CredentialsRelevant electrical engineering degree, certifications like PE or LEED often preferredSimilar credentials, often with additional project management certifications
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, often remote or client-site workTypically employed by companies, working on-site or in office
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance basis across various industries like construction, manufacturing, renewable energyIn-house or contractor roles within engineering firms or construction companies

The main difference is that Freelance Electrical Design Engineers work independently on diverse projects, often remotely, while Electrical Project Engineers are employed by organizations to oversee electrical projects from within. Both roles require similar technical credentials but differ in work setting and employment structure.

More about Freelance Electrical Design Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa?

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For Freelance Electrical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities in Iowa with the most Freelance Electrical Design Engineer job openings:

Freelance Electrical Design Engineer jobs near you

Electrical Engineer

Life Line Emergency Vehicles

Sumner, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Join the Team That Builds Life-Saving Vehicles

Why Life Line?

At Life Line, you won’t just build parts — you’ll help build ambulances that save lives every day. When you join our team, you become part of something bigger. We foster a supportive, team-oriented environment where your skills grow, your hard work is valued, and your contributions truly make a difference.

Position Summary

The Electrical Engineer – Mobile Upfitting is responsible for designing, developing, and supporting 12V/24V electrical systems installed in Life Line ambulances. This role focuses on integrating aftermarket electrical component lighting, communications equipment, power distribution, inverters/converters, switching systems, and control modules—into OEM vehicle chassis while maintaining electrical integrity, safety, and code compliance.

Working closely with production, design, and installation teams, the Electrical Engineer develops wiring schematics, harness designs, and component layouts that support durability, serviceability, and manufacturability in a high-mix, project-based upfitting environment. This individual troubleshoots electrical issues on the shop floor and field issues, ensures designs comply with relevant standards and supports continuous improvement of electrical installation processes.

Responsibilities
  • Design electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and harness layouts for vehicle upfits (lighting, sirens, radios, computers, power management systems, etc.)
  • Select and integrate components such as switches, relays, circuit protection, inverters, converters, and battery/power management systems
  • Ensure designs comply with OEM electrical specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements
  • Collaborate with sales, project managers, and production teams to translate customer requirements into functional electrical designs
  • Support prototyping, bench testing, and vehicle-level validation of new upfit configurations
  • Troubleshoot and resolve electrical issues during production, quality inspection, and after delivery
  • Create and maintain documentation including BOMs, wiring diagrams, and installation instructions for production technicians
  • Identify opportunities to standardize designs and improve efficiency, quality, and reliability across upfit programs
Skills and Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 2–5+ years of experience in automotive, fleet, RV, or specialty vehicle electrical systems (upfitting experience strongly preferred)
  • Familiarity with 12V/24V DC systems, vehicle multiplexing/CAN bus, and low-voltage electrical design
  • Proficiency with CAD/electrical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, SEE Electrical, Zuken, or similar)
  • Working knowledge of relevant standards
  • Strong hands-on troubleshooting skills and comfort working in a shop/manufacturing environment
  • Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration with production and customers
Additional Requirements
  • Must adhere to all safety policies and procedures.
  • Team player who is results-oriented and motivated to achieve high standards in every aspect of the role.
Contingencies of Employment
  • Successful completion of a background check, pre-employment drug screen and physical examination.
  • Successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, if applicable to the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer

Life Line is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Work Authorization

Life Line Emergency Vehicles does not offer employment sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.