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Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Ethos

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$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

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 · 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 · On-site

$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

$90 - $130/hr

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 ...

H. T. PROF Group

Senior Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible ... Develop mechanical products by studying customer requirements; researching and testing ...

Three Point Solutions

Tool Designer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$34 - $48/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer * Tool & Die Designer * Product Design Engineer (Manufacturing) * CAD Designer - Manufacturing Education * Engineering Degree preferred (Mechanical, Manufacturing ...

Ethos

Customer Support Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

Customer Support Engineer The Customer Support Engineer plays a key role in delivering technical ... The ideal candidate combines mechanical design knowledge with strong communication, organization ...

Ethos

Customer Support Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

Customer Support Engineer The Customer Support Engineer plays a key role in delivering technical ... The ideal candidate combines mechanical design knowledge with strong communication, organization ...

Ethos

Customer Support Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

Customer Support Engineer The Customer Support Engineer plays a key role in delivering technical ... The ideal candidate combines mechanical design knowledge with strong communication, organization ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMechanical Design Engineer JobsMechanical Design Engineer Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Mechanical Design Engineer information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$44.9K

$90.3K

$134.6K

How much do mechanical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineer in Waterloo, IA is $90,300.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,900.00 and $101,600.00 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 Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA?

For Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Mechanical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,300 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Ethos

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$88K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

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 in a finished product that meets the needs and expectations of the customer.

Responsibilities:

  • Plan and complete engineering projects by studying customer requirements, market demand, and competitors' products; scheduling and assigning employees; following up on work results.
  • Evaluate mechanical systems and products by designing and conducting research programs; applying principles of mechanics, hydraulics, and materials.
  • Confirm system and product capabilities by designing feasibility and testing methods; testing properties.
  • Develop manufacturing processes, focusing on cost reduction and process improvement by designing and modifying equipment for fabricating, building, assembling, and installing components.
  • Assure system and product quality by designing testing methods; testing finished product and system capabilities; confirming fabrication, assembly, and installation process.
  • Prepare product reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends.
  • Provide engineering information by answering questions and requests.
  • Maintain product and company reputation by complying with government regulations.
  • Maintain system and product database by writing computer programs and entering data.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
  • Senior-level/experienced Engineer with 5+ years experience.
  • Heavy haul trailer engineering experience a plus.
  • Heavy equipment engineering experience a plus
  • 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 a functional understanding of cost accounting.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development

Apply