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Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for the design ... Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline. 3-5 ...

... Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept and development of mechanical ... Compile and furnish necessary information (engineering decisions and reports of pertinent design ...

CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

... Design, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar).Strong understanding of mechanical design principles ...

Hawarden CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

... Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred. * Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar). * Strong understanding of mechanical design principles ...

Hawarden CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

... Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred. * Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar). * Strong understanding of mechanical design principles ...

Design Engineer

Pella, IA

$31.25 - $33.65/hr

The Design Engineer drives continuous improvement of utility equipment across the entire product ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Agricultural Engineering. * At least 1 year of ...

Design Engineer

Pella, IA

$31.25 - $33.65/hr

The Design Engineer drives continuous improvement of utility equipment across the entire product ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Agricultural Engineering. * At least 1 year of ...

... design starts with great people. We're a full-service architecture and engineering firm with a ... Lead the mechanical design of building systems to include plumbing, heating, cooling, ventilation ...

... design starts with great people. We're a full-service architecture and engineering firm with a ... Lead the mechanical design of building systems to include plumbing, heating, cooling, ventilation ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 8, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical design engineer?

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 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.

Are mechanical design engineers in demand?

Mechanical design engineers are in steady demand across industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive, especially for those skilled in CAD software and product development. Employment growth is driven by technological advancements and the need for innovative, efficient designs, making it a stable career choice.

What does a mechanical design engineer do?

A mechanical design engineer develops, analyzes, and tests mechanical devices and systems using CAD software and engineering principles. They create detailed drawings, select materials, and ensure designs meet safety and performance standards, often collaborating with manufacturing teams. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering tools are essential for this role.

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:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineering job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,016 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Design Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

IFP Motion Solutions Inc. is a growing motion control company based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with operations in 13 states. All locations work together to provide a range of services including manufacturing, repair, design engineering, and distribution of components. Our customer base includes industrial manufacturers, mobile integrations, and fluid power OEMs. With a knowledgeable sales team and a large inventory, we have the capability to design, prototype, manufacture, and service a wide range of motion control systems.

Summary

We are seeking a talented and driven Design Engineer to join our team. As a Design Engineer, you will design and develop hydraulic power units (HPUs), valves and manifolds, and complete hydraulic systems; taking projects from concept through detailed design and into production. You will work hands‑on in SolidWorks and collaborate closely with our internal engineering teams and shop floor to deliver quality designs.

Responsibilities
  • Provide hydraulic design and development for power units (HPUs), valves, manifolds, and complete systems of varied complexity.
  • Create and maintain 3D models, detailed part drawings, and assemblies in SolidWorks.
  • Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure manufacturability and proper fit.
  • Select appropriate hydraulic components and size systems to meet performance and application requirements.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and the shop floor to resolve design and production issues.
  • Support prototyping, testing, and design validation, and revise designs based on findings.
  • Maintain accurate engineering documentation, BOMs, and revision control.
Job Requirements
  • Minimum 2-4 years of mechanical design engineering experience, OR equivalent experience with a strong hydraulic systems/components background.
  • Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling, detailing, and assemblies.
  • Working knowledge of GD&T and the ability to produce manufacturable, production‑ready drawings.
  • Solid understanding of hydraulic principles and components.
  • Has the ability to manage multiple tasks, has excellent attention to detail, and is willing and able to learn new technologies quickly.
  • Has solid verbal and written communication skills. Works well as an individual and in a team within a manufacturing or production environment.
Additional Beneficial Skills
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field from an accredited college/university (strongly preferred).
  • Experience reading and interpreting hydraulic schematics.
  • Familiarity with FEA / stress analysis.
  • Prior experience designing HPUs, manifolds, or complete hydraulic systems.
Benefits

Starting wage commensurate with the experience level of the candidate. Enjoy a rewarding work environment and competitive benefits, including 401(k) and Profit Sharing with financial advisor support, medical, dental, vision plans, life and pet insurance, wellness program, and fitness club subsidies.

About IFP

IFP Motion Solutions Inc. is a growing motion control corporation headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Our business spans 13 states with four physical locations: Cedar Rapids, Minneapolis, Houston, and Kansas City. It employs 210+ team members across Engineering, Manufacturing, Assembly, Hydraulic Repair, Field Service, Warehouse & Distribution, Customer Service, Purchasing, Accounting, Marketing, and Sales. Our locations collaborate to serve a unique blend of manufacturing, repair & refurbishing, design engineering, and components distribution. Our customers include industrial manufacturers, mobile integrations, and fluid power OEMs. Combined with our knowledgeable sales team and expansive inventory, we can design, prototype, manufacture, or service any conceivable motion control system.

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