ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Ethos

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$88K - $122K/yr

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting ...

Ethos

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$83K - $115K/yr

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting ...

Ethos

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$83K - $115K/yr

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting ...

Ethos

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting ...

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 products ...

Three Point Solutions

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Support mechanical design and troubleshooting for production line * Evaluate and improve design ... Analyze engineering requirements and specifications * Collaborate with cross-functional teams ...

Saige Partners

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Aug 30, 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 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.

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 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 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 is the work of a Mechanical Design Engineer?

A Mechanical Design Engineer develops and creates mechanical systems, components, and products using CAD software and engineering principles. They analyze specifications, perform simulations, and collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are functional, efficient, and manufacturable.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% 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

Dubuque, IA • On-site

RFA Engineering
Engineering Professional Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about RFA Engineeringexternal

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
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 focuses on cost reduction projects and will operate across multiple product lines and vehicle systems (structures, hydraulics, powertrain, electrical, and cabs). You will work with various stakeholders to understand function and requirements.
Responsibilities
  • Create models and prints utilizing proper model-based definition methods and GD&T
  • Ability to work with many stakeholders and communicate project scope, status, changes, and challenges
  • Work with various suppliers and internal departments to facilitate part fit up, testing, and start of production
  • Support fit ups on the factory floor and support new part testing as needed
  • Communicate project details across all levels of the organization
  • Manage multiple tasks and projects with different product groups

Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Agricultural Engineering or related degree
  • 3+ years of demonstrated design or cost reduction experience.
  • Excellent communication, both written and verbal
  • Demonstrated ability to get projects completed with minimal oversight
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to work independently

Desired Skills
  • Creo and Windchill proficiency
  • Knowledge and application of GD&T standards
  • Familiarity with CI processes
  • Strong communication skills with ability to present and speak in front of groups
  • Collaboration and flexibility across multiple design disciplines and product lines
  • Adaptability to accommodate changes in scope and schedule of projects
  • Familiarity with construction and forestry equipment

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $80,000-$110,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply