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Freelance Trailer Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

XL Specialized Trailers

Design Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

XL Specialized Trailers, 1086 South 3rd St., Manchester, Iowa 52057 Summary: Generally expected to ... This job will collaborate inside a team of design engineers (10) responsible for designing ...

Arrowhead Talent Solutions

Design Engineer

Kent, OH · On-site

... complex liquid tank trailers and components. • Represent ASME Section VIII compliance and ... design standards to provide quality design, safety, constructability, reliable operation ...

Ethos

Senior Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Senior Design Engineer The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design ... Heavy haul trailer engineering experience a plus. * Heavy equipment engineering experience a plus

Ethos

Senior Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Senior Design Engineer The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design ... Heavy haul trailer engineering experience a plus. * Heavy equipment engineering experience a plus

Ethos

Senior Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Senior Design Engineer The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design ... Heavy haul trailer engineering experience a plus. * Heavy equipment engineering experience a plus

Marmon

Product Design Engineer (On-site)

Haleyville, AL · On-site

$106K - $128K/yr

Fontaine Commercial Trailer, Inc. As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings ... The Product Design Engineer's responsibilities are to utilize fundamental engineering strategies to ...

Great Dane LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Savannah, GA

$72K - $97K/yr

The Position The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and support ... We not only engineer durable and high-quality trailers and truck bodies; we foster relationships ...

NLB Corp.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Wixom, MI · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

A Professional Engineering license is highly desired * Experience with machine design, including ... Designing high-pressure water pump skids and trailers , ranging from 60 to 1,000 HP. These systems ...

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Freelance Trailer Design Engineer information

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How much do freelance trailer design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance trailer design engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Freelance Trailer Design Engineer?

A Freelance Trailer Design Engineer is a professional who specializes in designing trailers, such as those used for transporting goods, vehicles, or equipment. Unlike a full-time employee, a freelance engineer works independently and is typically hired on a project-by-project basis by companies or individuals. Their responsibilities include creating detailed technical drawings, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and collaborating with clients to meet specific requirements. They often use CAD software and have strong knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes. Freelance Trailer Design Engineers offer flexibility and specialized expertise to a variety of clients.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Trailer Design Engineer, you need expertise in mechanical engineering principles, trailer design standards, and a relevant engineering degree or certification. Proficiency in CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), finite element analysis tools, and knowledge of regulatory requirements is essential. Strong problem-solving, time management, and client communication skills help you succeed in a freelance environment. These skills ensure you can deliver safe, compliant, and innovative trailer designs while meeting client expectations and deadlines.

What is the difference between Freelance Trailer Design Engineer vs Freelance Vehicle Body Designer?

AspectFreelance Trailer Design EngineerFreelance Vehicle Body Designer
CredentialsEngineering degree, CAD skillsDesign background, CAD proficiency
Work EnvironmentProject-based, client sites or remoteDesign studios, client offices, remote
Industry UsageTransport, logistics, manufacturingAutomotive, transportation, custom vehicle design

While both roles involve CAD design and client collaboration, a Freelance Trailer Design Engineer specializes in designing trailers for transport and logistics industries, focusing on structural integrity and functionality. A Freelance Vehicle Body Designer works on the aesthetic and aerodynamic aspects of vehicle exteriors across various automotive sectors. The key difference lies in their specific focus areas within vehicle design and industry applications.

What are some common challenges Freelance Trailer Design Engineers face when managing multiple client projects?

Freelance Trailer Design Engineers often juggle several projects with differing timelines and requirements, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. They must adapt quickly to various client expectations, industry standards, and sometimes rapidly changing specifications. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage revisions or feedback efficiently are crucial for staying on track and maintaining client satisfaction. Building a reliable workflow and clear client agreements can help mitigate these common challenges.
What cities are hiring for Freelance Trailer Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Trailer Design Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Trailer Design Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Trailer Design Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Trailer Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Trailer Design Engineer jobs include:
Freelance Trailer Design Engineer jobs near you

Design Engineer

XL Specialized Trailers

Manchester, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Country:
United States of America
Location:
XL Specialized Trailers, 1086 South 3rd St., Manchester, Iowa 52057
Summary:
Generally expected to work as a valued member of the XL Specialized Trailers team. This job will collaborate inside a team of design engineers (10) responsible for designing mechanical products and systems resulting in a finished product that meets the needs and expectation of the customer.
Responsibilities, Qualifications or Skills Required:
  1. Plans and completes engineering projects by studying customer requirements, market demand, and competitors' products; scheduling and assigning employees; following up on work results.
  2. Evaluates mechanical systems and products by designing and conducting research programs; applying principles of mechanics, hydraulics and materials.
  3. Confirms system and product capabilities by designing feasibility and testing methods; testing properties.
  4. Develops mechanical products by studying customer requirements; researching and testing manufacturing and assembly methods and materials, soliciting observations from operators.
  5. Develops manufacturing processes, focusing on cost reduction and process improvement by designing and modifying equipment for fabricating, building, assembling and installing components.
  6. Assures system and product quality by designing testing methods; testing finished product and system capabilities; confirming fabrication, assembly and installation process.
  7. Prepares product reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends.
  8. Provides engineering information by answering questions and requests.
  9. Maintains product and company reputation by complying with government regulations.
  10. Maintains system and product database by writing computer programs and entering data.
  11. Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
  12. Contributes to team effort by accomplishing relating results as needed.

Education and Experience Requirements: Education and Experience:
  1. Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
  2. Heavy haul trailer engineering experience a plus; heavy equipment engineering experience a plus

Essential Skills and Experience:
  • Must have advanced computer skills and be able to understand electronic processing. Technically proficient in Excel, and Design software systems.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective interface with all internal and external contacts.
  • Possess, analytical and technical skills required to understand business practices and recommend proper automation opportunities.
  • Must have functional understanding of cost accounting.
  • Must be an innovator and embrace lean enterprise principles and practices.
  • Ability to quickly learn new tools, systems, etc.
  • Ability to not only identify problems but also take action towards solving them.
  • Aptitude to manage by influence not only by hierarchy.

Work Environment:
Work is primarily performed indoors.
Has the ability to work remotely.
Some of our competitive benefits package includes:
  • Free Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee AND dependents!
  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
  • 12 Paid Holidays -including your birthday!
  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Life insurance and disability coverage
  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits

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