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Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Van-Am Tool & Engineering

Manufacturing Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Van-Am Defense Systems is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join our engineering team in Waverly, Iowa. This is an opportunity to make a direct impact on the manufacturing of high ...

Three Point Solutions

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company Location: Waterloo, IA 50701 Duration: 24 Months (Possible extension/conversion) Shift: 2nd (3:30 PM - 12:00 AM) OR 3rd (10:30 PM ...

Kyyba Inc

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

As a Foundry OFP Manufacturing Engineer, you will plan, coordinate, and perform manufacturing engineering projects across the foundry. Operating in a team environment, you will collaborate closely ...

Life Line Emergency Vehicles

Manufacturing Engineer

Sumner, IA · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

Position Summary The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes to support safe, efficient, and high-quality production. This role works ...

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All JobsManufacturing Engineer JobsManufacturing Engineer Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Manufacturing Engineer information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$44.2K

$79.7K

$111.7K

How much do manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing engineer in Waterloo, IA is $79,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a manufacturing engineer faces in optimizing production processes?

Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing efficiency with product quality, minimizing production costs while maintaining safety standards, and implementing new technologies without disrupting existing workflows. They may also need to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate with cross-functional teams, such as quality assurance and maintenance, to resolve issues quickly. Staying up-to-date with industry advancements and continuous improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma is essential to overcoming these challenges and driving process enhancements.

What is a manufacturing engineer?

A manufacturing engineer is a specialized engineer who improves product manufacturing processes. As a manufacturing engineer, your primary duties are to design and develop production systems and improve the tools and systems within the manufacturing process. You will use computer software such as CAD to create, modify, and test the products and manufacturing processes.

What exactly do manufacturing engineers do?

Manufacturing engineers design, develop, and improve manufacturing processes to produce products efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. They analyze production workflows, select appropriate equipment, and implement quality control measures, often using tools like CAD software and lean manufacturing principles. Their work ensures that manufacturing operations run smoothly and meet quality standards.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process optimization, and quality control, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications, and experience with automation systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate and drive continuous improvement. These abilities ensure efficient production processes, cost reduction, and high product quality in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectManufacturing EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering; certifications like CMfgEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production plants, manufacturing facilitiesDesign offices, research labs, manufacturing settings
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, industrial sectorsAutomotive, aerospace, energy, product design

Manufacturing Engineers focus on optimizing production processes and workflows within manufacturing environments, while Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Manufacturing Engineers are more involved in process improvement and production efficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers often work on product design and mechanical system development.

More about Manufacturing Engineer jobs

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What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,419 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Van-Am Tool & Engineering

Waverly, IA • On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Van-Am Defense Systems is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join our engineering team in Waverly, Iowa. This is an opportunity to make a direct impact on the manufacturing of high-precision components and assemblies supporting the aerospace and defense industries.We are looking for an engineer who enjoys solving complex manufacturing challenges, improving production processes, designing tooling and fixtures, and collaborating with production, quality, and engineering teams to deliver world-class products. If you thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoy turning engineering concepts into efficient, repeatable production processes, we would like to hear from you.What You Will DoAs a Manufacturing Engineer, you will:Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for precision machined and fabricated components.Design manufacturing methods, tooling, fixtures, and workholding solutions that improve productivity and quality.Create and maintain manufacturing documentation including process plans, Bills of Material (BOMs), work instructions, and engineering changes.Support CNC machining, forming, welding, assembly, and static load testing operations.Partner with Production, Quality, and Engineering to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and improve throughput.Support quoting and estimating by evaluating manufacturing methods and labor requirements.Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, cost reduction, and waste elimination.Ensure manufacturing processes comply with AS9100 quality requirements and customer specifications.What We Are Looking ForQualified candidates will have:Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline (or equivalent manufacturing engineering experience).5+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or other precision manufacturing environments preferred.Experience supporting CNC machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, and manufacturing process development.Experience designing tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing workholding.Working knowledge of CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).Experience with ERP systems (Epicor preferred).Strong analytical, troubleshooting, project management, and communication skills.Experience with AS9100 or ISO 9001 manufacturing environments is highly desirable.Working knowledge of ITAR requirements is preferred.Why Van-Am Defense Systems?At Van-Am Defense Systems, our engineers play a key role in delivering products that support critical defense and aerospace programs. You will work alongside experienced manufacturing professionals while helping shape the future of our operations through innovation, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.We offer:Competitive compensation packageComprehensive benefits packageOpportunity to work on challenging aerospace and defense programsCollaborative engineering environmentModern manufacturing equipment and technologyStable, growing organization committed to continuous improvementCareer growth and professional development opportunitiesLocation: Waverly, IowaAs a federal government contractor, Van-Am Defense Systems is required to maintain a drug-free workplace under the Drug-Free Workplace Act. As part of the hiring process, all candidates who receive a conditional job offer must undergo a pre-employment drug test, which includes testing for marijuana, regardless of state legalization.Testing is conducted after a job offer is extended, and results are kept confidential. A positive result may impact the final offer of employment. Van-Am complies with all applicable Federal, State (including Missouri and Iowa), and DOT regulations, where relevant.Van-Am is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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