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Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

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 ...

RFA Engineering

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 ...

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

They collaborate with cross-functional teams, including other designers, engineers, and stakeholders, to design and optimize mechanical solutions that meet project requirements and industry standards.

ACI Mechanical

Mechanical Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

ACI Mechanical is a full-service, merit-shop, design-build commercial and industrial mechanical ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical, construction, or other related engineering fields * Duct and ...

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

ACI Mechanical is a full-service, merit-shop, design-build commercial and industrial mechanical ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical, construction, or other related engineering fields * Duct and ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

The Design Engineer translates their ideas, rough sketches, and specifications into general ... Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering preferred. Combined experience and industry educational ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

The Design Engineer translates their ideas, rough sketches, and specifications into general ... Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering preferred. Combined experience and industry educational ...

ACI Mechanical

Engineering Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

ACI Mechanical is a full-service, merit-shop, design-build commercial and industrial mechanical ... The ACI Team comprises of engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal ...

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Engineering Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

ACI Mechanical is a full-service, merit-shop, design-build commercial and industrial mechanical ... The ACI Team comprises of engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal ...

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Mechanical Design Engineering information

See Ames, IA salary details

$44.5K

$89.6K

$133.5K

How much do mechanical design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineering in Ames, IA is $89,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,300.00 and $100,800.00 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 Ames, IA? For Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Ames, IA are:
Mechanical Design Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineering job openings in Ames, IA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,581 per year, or $43.1 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer

RFA Engineering

Ames, IA • On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 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
Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept and development of mechanical components. These designs primarily include small and mid-sized cast and machined components.
Responsibilities
  • Create models and prints utilizing proper model-based definition methods and GD&T
  • Ability to work with a large number of stakeholders and communicate back and forth regarding project scope, status, and changes
  • Work with internal fabrication departments to facilitate parts being in the right place at the right time
  • Supporting builds and fit ups on the factory floor as needed
  • Excellent communicator across all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical 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 Skills
  • Creo or Solidworks proficiency, especially with castings (trainable)
  • Knowledge and application of GD&T standards (trainable)
  • Familiarity with PDP processes and milestone requirements
  • 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

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Salary Range: $60,000-$85,000 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.

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