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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

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Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35.90 - $41.90/hr

Manufacturing Engineer II - Factory Engineering // PDP ME Assembly Location: Waterloo, IA - 50703 (onsite; may travel locally for meetings) Duration: 24 Months (possible extension) 1st Shift: 7:00 AM ...

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 ...

KYYBA

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Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · Remote

$35 - $42/hr

On w2 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 ...

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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 Jul 26, 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Manufacturing engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation and process optimization, and in senior or managerial roles. High salaries are often associated with industries like aerospace, automotive, or specialized manufacturing, and may require certifications such as Six Sigma or professional engineering licensure.

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 are Manufacturing Engineers?

Manufacturing Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and improve manufacturing processes in factories and production plants. They focus on increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring that products are made safely and cost-effectively. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers, quality control teams, and production staff to optimize workflows and integrate new technologies into manufacturing systems.

What is the job of a manufacturing engineer?

A manufacturing engineer designs, develops, and improves manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze production workflows, select appropriate tools and equipment, and often use CAD software to optimize operations. The role typically requires knowledge of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and familiarity with industry standards and safety regulations.

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 engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Manufacturing engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually, but senior engineering roles such as engineering managers, director-level positions, or specialized consultants in manufacturing can reach or exceed this salary level, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves bonuses, stock options, or profit-sharing in addition to base salary.

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.

How much do manufacturing engineers earn?

Manufacturing engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $100,000 annually.
More about Manufacturing Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA? For Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,405 per year, or $38.2 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

Van-Am Tool & Engineering

Waverly, IA • On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 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 Do

As 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 For

Qualified 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 package
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Opportunity to work on challenging aerospace and defense programs
  • Collaborative engineering environment
  • Modern manufacturing equipment and technology
  • Stable, growing organization committed to continuous improvement
  • Career growth and professional development opportunities

Location: Waverly, Iowa


As 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.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro