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Mechanical Engineering Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Ethos

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager

Waterloo, IA

$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

$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 ...

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Engineering Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

ACI Mechanical is seeking an Engineering Manager to lead our engineering department in all ... mechanical projects. This individual will be accountable for the accuracy and performance of our ...

ACI Mechanical, Inc.

Engineering Manager

Ames, IA · On-site

ACI Mechanical is seeking an Engineering Manager to lead our engineering department in all ... mechanical projects. This individual will be accountable for the accuracy and performance of our ...

Nova Talent Solutions

Engineering Manager

Ames, IA

A growing organization is seeking an Engineering Manager to lead its engineering department across mechanical design projects. This role is responsible for overseeing engineering accuracy, team ...

Vibotek LLC

Mechanical Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

Utilize project management tools for the successful implementation of both sustaining and new capital improvement projects. Coordinate all phases of assigned area mechanical engineering projects from ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering JobsMechanical Engineering Manager JobsMechanical Engineering Manager Jobs in Iowa

Mechanical Engineering Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$67.6K

$117.6K

$169.1K

How much do mechanical engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering manager in Iowa is $117,561.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $134,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mechanical engineering manager do?

The responsibilities of a mechanical engineering manager involve overseeing a team of design engineers. In this position, your management duties typically include technical and design operations as well as administrative tasks. You plan a budget, work schedule, and benchmarks and deadlines for each project. You also work with stakeholders and other managers to define objectives for each project. During a project, you use computer-aided design and drafting programs to manage the technical and planning aspects of projects. A manager also works in the field to ensure that building, installation, or manufacturing match their design and technical specifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineering manager, and why are they important?

A Mechanical Engineering Manager needs a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, project management, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering along with relevant experience. Familiarity with CAD software, engineering simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications like PMP are highly valuable. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal communication skills help them effectively guide teams and collaborate across departments. These competencies ensure projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and within budget while fostering innovation and team development.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Manager vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, often with leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, manages projects, strategic planningDesign, analysis, testing, and development tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and industrial firmsApplied across similar industries for technical roles

The main difference is that a Mechanical Engineering Manager focuses on team leadership, project management, and strategic oversight, while a Mechanical Engineer concentrates on technical design, analysis, and development tasks. Both roles require a strong engineering background, but the manager role involves more leadership and administrative responsibilities.

What does a mechanical engineering manager do?

A Mechanical Engineering Manager oversees teams of mechanical engineers and technicians, guiding the design, development, and testing of mechanical devices and systems. They are responsible for managing project timelines, budgets, and ensuring technical quality and compliance with safety standards. Additionally, they collaborate with other departments, mentor engineering staff, and help resolve complex technical problems. Their role is a blend of leadership, project management, and engineering expertise.

What does a mechanical engineering manager get paid?

A mechanical engineering manager's average salary typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often oversee engineering teams, manage projects, and require strong technical skills and leadership abilities.

How does a mechanical engineering manager typically balance project leadership with mentoring team members?

A Mechanical Engineering Manager often juggles overseeing project progress and deliverables while also dedicating time to mentor and develop their engineering team. This balance is achieved by setting clear project milestones, delegating tasks appropriately, and fostering open communication channels. Regular one-on-one meetings and technical reviews allow managers to support individual growth and address challenges early, ensuring both team performance and employee development. Effective managers also create opportunities for team members to take on increasing responsibilities, promoting career advancement within the organization.
More about Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa? For Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Mechanical Engineering Manager job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,561 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineering Manager

Ethos

Waterloo, IA

$102K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days 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

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