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Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer - Hydraulics We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer with a focus on hydraulic systems to support product design and integration. This role involves working closely ...

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$80K - $110K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer As a Mechanical Design Engineer in this role, you will be responsible for finding projects, vetting & designing them, and bringing these projects into production. This role ...

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 for finding projects, vetting & designing them, and bringing these projects into production. This role ...

Intellectt INC

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Forest City, IA · On-site

$82K - $113K/yr

My name is Vyshu, and I'm reaching out from Intellectt Inc. regarding an exciting contract opportunity for a Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer based in Forest City, lowa with one of our prestigious ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA

$73K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a highly qualified individual to join our team as a Mechanical Design Engineer (Automation) in our Hawarden, Iowa location. Responsibilities: * Design automation for a variety of ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a highly qualified individual to join our team as a Mechanical Design Engineer (Automation) in our Hawarden, Iowa location. Responsibilities: * Design automation for a variety of ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a highly qualified individual to join our team as a Mechanical Design Engineer (Automation) in our Hawarden, Iowa location. Responsibilities: * Design automation for a variety of ...

Saige Partners

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA · On-site

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and continuous improvement of trailer systems, including structural frames, suspension systems ...

Ethos

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$96K - $133K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager The Mechanical Design Engineering Manager is responsible for leading a team that manages a defined portion of standard product offerings to support the ...

Ethos

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager

Waterloo, IA

$102K - $141K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager The Mechanical Design Engineering Manager is responsible for leading a team that manages a defined portion of standard product offerings to support the ...

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All JobsMechanical Design Engineer JobsMechanical Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Mechanical Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$42.7K

$86K

$128.2K

How much do mechanical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineer in Iowa is $86,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,400.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Mechanical Design Engineer?

A mechanical design engineer is a professional who designs mechanical products or systems. Mechanical design engineers often work in every aspect of product development: conducting research, designing, prototyping, and testing. Mechanical design engineers use their knowledge of science, technology, design, and mathematics to meet the product requirements.

What are some typical challenges Mechanical Design Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Mechanical Design Engineers often collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing teams. One common challenge is ensuring that mechanical designs align with the requirements and constraints of other disciplines, such as electronics placement or thermal management. Effective communication and regular meetings are crucial to resolve conflicts, address design changes, and keep projects on schedule. Building strong cross-functional relationships helps Mechanical Design Engineers anticipate potential issues early and deliver integrated solutions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior mechanical design engineers working in industries like aerospace or defense with advanced skills and certifications may also reach this level, especially in leadership roles or with extensive experience.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and relevant certifications (like FE or PE) is highly valuable. Strong teamwork, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on multidisciplinary projects and present design solutions. These abilities are crucial for developing innovative, manufacturable designs that meet both technical requirements and client needs.

What does a Mechanical Design Engineer do?

A Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices and systems. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed blueprints and models, ensuring that products meet required specifications and standards. Their work often involves problem-solving, selecting appropriate materials, and collaborating with other engineers and teams to bring a concept from idea to production. Mechanical Design Engineers are found in a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Earning $200,000 annually as a mechanical design engineer is possible but typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, working in high-paying industries such as aerospace or automotive, and often holding senior or managerial positions. Salaries vary based on location, education, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What is the difference between Mechanical Design Engineer vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectMechanical Design EngineerMechanical Drafter
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredAssociate degree or technical diploma in drafting or CAD technology
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDrafting departments, engineering firms, manufacturing settings
ResponsibilitiesDesigns, analyzes, and develops mechanical systems and componentsCreates detailed technical drawings and plans based on engineers' designs

The main difference is that Mechanical Design Engineers focus on designing and developing mechanical systems, requiring engineering degrees and licenses, while Mechanical Drafters prepare detailed drawings based on engineers' concepts, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles work closely in the engineering process but serve different functions within the product development cycle.

What does a mechanical designer engineer do?

A mechanical design engineer develops, analyzes, and tests mechanical devices and systems, creating detailed drawings and specifications using CAD software. They collaborate with teams to ensure designs meet functional, safety, and manufacturing requirements, often working within project deadlines and industry standards.
More about Mechanical Design Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Mechanical Design Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in IA? For Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Mechanical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,016 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Design Hire LLC

Sanborn, IA

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description


Design Hire is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to develop detailed 3D designs for manufacturable products and components. This role is a strong fit for someone who is detail-oriented, production-minded, and comfortable turning design concepts into accurate models and documentation that support fabrication and release.


Key Responsibilities

  • Create and revise 3D CAD models and drawings for sheet metal structures, assemblies, and related mechanical components.
  • Design parts with a strong focus on manufacturability, fabrication methods, production efficiency, and quality requirements.
  • Work with engineering, manufacturing, and production teams to resolve design issues and improve buildability.
  • Review dimensions, tolerances, materials, and documentation to support accurate release to the shop floor or supplier base.
  • Support design updates, prototype changes, and continuous improvement efforts throughout the product development cycle.


Qualifications

  • 5+ years of mechanical design experience preferred.
  • Strong experience with Creo 3D CAD.
  • Background designing sheet metal parts, structures, assemblies, or fabricated components.
  • Understanding of design for manufacturability and production-based design practices.
  • Experience working with fabrication, forming, cutting, welding, fastening, or related manufacturing processes.
  • Ability to create accurate drawings with proper dimensions, tolerances, and technical details.
  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering, Drafting, or a related technical field preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.


Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Design Hire is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. It is our policy to consider for employment all individuals regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.


Employment Eligibility: If hired, a Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification must be completed at the start of employment. Temporary work authorization or the need for sponsorship may disqualify you from employment.