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Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Mechanical Design Engineer Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Mechanical Design Engineer Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Mechanical Design Engineer - Hydraulics We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer with a focus on ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Mechanical Design Engineer As a Mechanical Design Engineer in this role, you will be responsible ...

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Forest City, IA · On-site

$82.60K - $113.90K/yr

BE in Mechanical Engineering Key Requirements: * 3-4 years of experience in the recreational vehicle (RV) industry * Strong knowledge of structural and chassis design * Hands-on experience with UG NX ...

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Forest City, IA · On-site

$82.60K - $113.90K/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, IA with one of our prestigious ...

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73.80K - $100K/yr

Possess a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field * Bring at least 5 years of recent mechanical design experience in the realm of manufacturing and automation, showcasing your ...

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73.80K - $100K/yr

Possess a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field * Bring at least 5 years of recent mechanical design experience in the realm of manufacturing and automation, showcasing your ...

Hawarden Mechanical Design Engineer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$73.80K - $100K/yr

Possess a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field * Bring at least 5 years of recent mechanical design experience in the realm of manufacturing and automation, showcasing your ...

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$121.40K - $145.90K/yr

Ottumwa, IA 52501 Duration: 24 Months (Possibility of Extension/Conversion) Shift: 1st Shift (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Job Summary Entry-level product engineering role focused on mechanical design support ...

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Ottumwa, IA 52501 Duration: 24 Months (Possibility of Extension/Conversion) Shift: 1st Shift (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Job Summary Entry-level product engineering role focused on mechanical design support ...

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Engineer Product I - Mechanical Systems // Line Support Engineer // CI Design Engineer Location ... Determines engineering specifications which must be fulfilled for routine problems or projects.

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Mechanical Design Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$42.7K

$86K

$128.2K

How much do mechanical design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineering 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 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 understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and certifications like FE or PE, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and efficient design solutions that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What are some of the common challenges Mechanical Design Engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Mechanical Design Engineers often collaborate with electrical engineers, manufacturing teams, and project managers. One common challenge is ensuring that the mechanical design aligns with electrical requirements and manufacturability constraints, which can require frequent communication and compromise. Balancing innovative ideas with practical limitations such as budget, materials, and timelines is also a recurring challenge. Successful engineers develop strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to navigate these multidisciplinary interactions effectively.

What is mechanical design engineering?

Mechanical design engineering is a branch of engineering focused on designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems and products. Mechanical design engineers use principles of physics, mathematics, and material science to create everything from small individual parts to large-scale machinery. Their work often involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed models and prototypes before manufacturing. This discipline is essential in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer electronics, ensuring that products are efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.

What do mechanical design engineers do?

Mechanical design engineers develop, analyze, and improve mechanical systems and components using CAD software and engineering principles. They create detailed drawings, select materials, and test prototypes to ensure functionality, safety, and efficiency in products or machinery.

What is the difference between Mechanical Design Engineering vs Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectMechanical Design EngineeringMechanical Manufacturing Engineering
Primary FocusDesign and development of mechanical components and systemsManufacturing processes, production efficiency, and quality control
Skills & CertificationsCAD software, engineering principles, often requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineeringManufacturing methods, quality assurance, often requires a bachelor's in mechanical or manufacturing engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, CAD workstationsFactories, production lines, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageProduct design, R&D, prototypingMass production, assembly, process optimization

Mechanical Design Engineering focuses on creating and developing mechanical systems and components, while Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering emphasizes the production, process improvement, and quality control of those designs. Both roles require a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles and often collaborate closely in product development cycles.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineering jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Mechanical Design Engineering job openings:
Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer

RFA Engineering

Waterloo, IA

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 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 Entry-Level to 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
Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept and development of mechanical components and systems that may include multiple plastic processes, castings or forgings, stampings, laser cut parts, and welding or bonding of components.
Responsibilities
  • Communication with suppliers and customers on product selection and integration
  • Use of Creo and Windchill to support 3-D Modeling of components, sheet metal and possibly hydraulic or electrical routings.
  • Creation and support of 2D drawings and specification documentation
  • Work with manufacturing, product verification and validation, and suppliers to develop efficient and cost effective designs
  • Compile and furnish necessary information (engineering decisions and reports of pertinent design analyses data) to document the design solution required for building of prototypes and adoption of the design with possible involvement of other functional engineers.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Agricultural Engineering or related degree
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment
Desired Attributes
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo 7.0 experience (Preferred)
  • Previous experience with Windchill or PDMLink
  • Strong understanding of GD&T
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment
  • Ability to address quality issues, determine root cause and drive to a corrective action
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective designs
Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $60,000-$80,000 - 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