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Mechanical Project Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Project Manager - Mechanical

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Execute assigned equipment projects and ensure assigned projects are executed profitably ... Degree in Construction Science, Construction Management, or Civil/Mechanical Engineering OR * Five ...

In this role you will own projects from concept through delivery; working directly with customers ... Four-year degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent from an accredited college/university ...

Project Manager - Mechanical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Execute assigned equipment projects and ensure assigned projects are executed profitably ... Degree in Construction Science, Construction Management, or Civil/Mechanical Engineering OR * Five ...

The Musco Application Engineering Team has an opening for a Project Engineer in Oskaloosa, IA. If ... Mechanical and electrical experience preferred * Strong organizational skills with ability to ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Ames, IA

$102K - $135K/yr

The ACI Team comprises of engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service technicians, and support staff who are all dedicated to serving our clients. Job ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

The ACI Team comprises of engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service technicians, and support staff who are all dedicated to serving our clients. Job ...

Ensure that the operators, mechanics, electricians etc. are effectively trained and that the ... Project Engineering/Management. * Plant design & construction. * In-depth knowledge of food ...

The Project Engineer role requires mechanical design knowledge, supporting Senior Program Managers to meet customer timelines and internal milestones. It involves gathering and sharing program data ...

Showing results 41-60

Mechanical Project Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$45.1K

$86.7K

$120.7K

How much do mechanical project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical project engineer in Iowa is $86,748.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,300.00 and $98,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical project engineer?

Mechanical Project Engineers are professionals responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing mechanical engineering projects from conception to completion. They work on designing, developing, and installing mechanical systems, ensuring that projects meet technical specifications, budget requirements, and deadlines. Their role often includes collaborating with other engineers, contractors, and stakeholders to solve problems and ensure the project's success. Mechanical Project Engineers are essential in industries such as construction, manufacturing, energy, and automotive.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Project Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering principles, project management, and often a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, project scheduling tools like MS Project, and certifications such as PMP or PE are commonly expected. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure projects are designed efficiently, delivered on time, and meet both technical and client requirements.

What are some common challenges mechanical project engineers face when coordinating with multidisciplinary teams?

Mechanical Project Engineers frequently work alongside electrical, civil, and software engineers, as well as project managers and clients. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment on project requirements, timelines, and technical specifications, as each discipline may have different priorities and workflows. Managing changes in project scope or resolving technical conflicts can also require strong negotiation and problem-solving skills. Building effective relationships and maintaining open communication channels are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Mechanical Project Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Project EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certifications (e.g., PE)Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, CAD certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, project sitesDesign studios, R&D labs, CAD workstations
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, manufacturing companies, engineering consultanciesDesign firms, product development companies, R&D departments

The main difference is that Mechanical Project Engineers focus on managing and overseeing mechanical projects from planning to completion, often working on-site and coordinating teams. Mechanical Design Engineers primarily focus on creating and developing mechanical designs using CAD software, working mainly in design environments. Both roles require a mechanical engineering background but serve different stages of the project lifecycle.

Infographic showing various Mechanical Project Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,748 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Project Manager Mechanical Engineering

Ankeny, IA • Hybrid

MSA Professional Services, Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees

$88K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


MSA Professional Services rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Project Manager - Mechanical Engineering with experience in mechanical systems design, project management, and client coordination to lead projects from pursuit through closeout. This role serves as the primary point of contact for clients and internal teams, managing mechanical engineering projects while ensuring quality, budget, and schedule performance.

This position is for a hybrid or onsite role in our Des Moines or Cedar Rapids IA office.

ResponsibilitiesProject Management & Delivery
  • Lead mechanical engineering projects through pursuit, initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closeout
  • Develop project management plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules
  • Oversee project team performance and ensure quality deliverables
Client & Business Development
  • Serve as primary point of contact for clients
  • Support proposal development, scoping, and contract preparation
  • Communicate with clients on budgets, schedules, and project updates
  • Identify opportunities for additional services and project growth
Technical & Team Leadership
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and external partners
  • Review technical work and ensure documentation quality
  • Mentor junior staff and contribute to team development
  • Collaborate with leadership on project strategy and delivery
Financial & Operational Management
  • Monitor budgets, manage scope changes, and pursue amendments when needed
  • Review and issue invoices; ensure timely client payment
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 6+ years of project management or mechanical engineering experience
  • Proven experience managing engineering projects, budgets, and schedules
  • Strong knowledge of project management principles and best practices
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Teams)
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
Preferred
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in Iowa.
  • Experience with HVAC systems, building systems, or industrial mechanical design
  • Project management certification (PMP, PSMJ, EMI, or equivalent)
  • Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering teams
Why MSA

At MSA, our people are our greatest asset. We believe in building strong teams, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where employees can grow professionally while making meaningful contributions to the communities we serve.

You'll join a firm where your work matters - where your expertise, teamwork, and ideas help drive the success of projects and the organization as a whole.

BEST-IN-INDUSTRY BENEFITS

The salary for this position ranges from $88,000 to $142,000, with higher compensation possible for candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.

  • Better Together - A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.
  • Multi-disciplinary Opportunities - As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.
  • We've Got Your Back - Support when you need it and independence when you don't.
  • Commitment to DEIB - We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
  • Passion & Purpose - We are passionate about what we do and proud of it.
  • Communities of Practice - Our Communities of Practice bring together experts across disciplines to collaborate, share knowledge, and generate new ideas.
Additional Benefits

Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents

  • Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year

  • Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually

  • Paid Parental Leave - 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents

  • Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage

  • Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity

Equal Opportunity Employer

MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.

Employment Type: OTHER

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