1

Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

$76K - $105K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineering Manager serves as a critical leader within the R&D organization, responsible for leading, developing, and directing the mechanical engineering team. This role ...

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager (1592) The Mechanical Engineering Manager will manage and oversee a team of engineers responsible for the design qualification and structural integrity ...

Showing results 21-40

Mechanical Design Engineering information

See salary details

$45.5K

$91.6K

$136.5K

How much do mechanical design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineering in the United States is $91,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $103,000.00 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.
More about Mechanical Design Engineering jobs

What cities are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Mechanical Design Engineering job openings:

What states have the most Mechanical Design Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mechanical Design Engineering jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineering jobs?

For Mechanical Design Engineering jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,578 per year, or $44 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$96K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago


Job description

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 production schedule.

This role focuses on ownership, standardization, continuous improvement, and lifecycle support of existing product platforms, while ensuring designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, compliant, and scalable.

The role works closely with other Sr. Engineering Managers leading sub-teams within the department to ensure alignment, consistency, and effective execution across the product portfolio, while supporting Manufacturing, Warranty, and Customer Service functions, and occasionally Sales.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Lead, develop, and manage a team of product design engineers supporting production and in-market products
  • Own product architectures, standards, and design intent across heavy haul trailer platforms
  • Prioritize and assign engineering work based on production needs, product improvements, cost-reduction initiatives, and field feedback
  • Serve as engineering owner for sustaining engineering, product changes, and platform evolution (non-NPD)
  • Ensure engineering support for production, including rapid resolution of design, quality, and manufacturability issues
  • Partner with Manufacturing Engineering and Production to:
    • Improve weldment, fabrication, and assembly methods
    • Improve BOM accuracy, drawings, and release quality
  • Lead and participate in structured design reviews and approve engineering changes
  • Oversee ECN/ECO execution to ensure timely, accurate, and well-documented product changes
  • Ensure compliance with FMVSS, DOT, and internal engineering and quality standards
  • Apply DFMEA, lessons learned, warranty data, and field feedback to improve durability, safety, and product reliability
  • Drive design-for-manufacturing, design-to-cost, and continuous improvement initiatives

Requirements

·         Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

·         Experience in heavy haul trailers, heavy equipment, or fabricated mobile equipment

·         Strong background in mechanical systems, structures, hydraulics, and manufacturing processes

·         Proven experience supporting products in production environments

·         Practical, hands-on engineering judgment

·         Strong problem-solving and root-cause analysis skills

·         Excellent written and verbal communication skills

·         Ability to balance cost, performance, manufacturability, and reliability

·         Proficiency with CAD tools, Excel, and engineering data systems

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