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Prototype Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Palmer Group

CAD Designer/Programmer

Clive, IA

$50K/yr

Palmer Group has partnered with our client in their search for a CAD Designer/Programmer to join ... Support prototype development, tooling, and fixture builds * Collaborate with production teams to ...

New

RFA Engineering

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Experience with design collaboration and prototyping tools such as Figma or Sketch. * Experience ...

RFA Engineering

Electromechanical Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Work with suppliers to support part development and design updates * Collaborate with supply management, manufacturing, and engineering teams to source prototype components and support product ...

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$80K - $130K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Experience with design collaboration and prototyping tools such as Figma or Sketch. * Experience ...

Rfamec

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com ) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Experience with design collaboration and prototyping tools such as Figma or Sketch. * Experience ...

Rfamec

Electromechanical Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

... design updates Collaborate with supply management, manufacturing, and engineering teams to source prototype components and support product updates Drive parts and designs through the engineering ...

YBI Recruiting

Project Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Combined with their knowledgeable sales team and expansive inventory, they can design, prototype ... Four-year degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent from an accredited college/university ...

YBI Recruiting

Project Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Combined with their knowledgeable sales team and expansive inventory, they can design, prototype ... Four-year degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent from an accredited college/university ...

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All JobsPrototype Design Engineer JobsPrototype Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Prototype Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$27

$34

$36

How much do prototype design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype design engineer in Iowa is $34.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.31 and $36.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a prototype design engineer do?

A Prototype Design Engineer is responsible for creating early models or prototypes of new products to test and refine their design and functionality. They work closely with product development teams to turn concepts into physical or digital prototypes, using specialized tools and materials. Their role often involves problem-solving, rapid iteration, and collaboration with engineers, designers, and manufacturers to ensure the prototype meets project requirements and can be successfully scaled for production.

What are some common challenges a prototype design engineer faces when transitioning concepts to functional prototypes?

Prototype Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative design with real-world manufacturability, meeting tight project deadlines, and iterating quickly based on testing feedback. They must frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams—including product designers, engineers, and manufacturing specialists—to solve problems and refine prototypes. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as priorities may shift rapidly based on testing results or stakeholder input. Successfully navigating these challenges is crucial for delivering prototypes that meet both technical and user requirements.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Design Engineer, you need strong skills in mechanical design, 3D modeling, and materials selection, typically supported by a degree in engineering or industrial design. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), rapid prototyping tools, and familiarity with manufacturing processes are essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for turning concepts into functional prototypes efficiently, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving product innovation.

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

AspectPrototype Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping and testing prototypes to validate conceptsDesigning mechanical components and systems for production
Skills & CertificationsCAD, prototyping tools, engineering principlesCAD, mechanical engineering certifications, materials knowledge
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, workshops, R&D departmentsDesign offices, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageProduct development, R&D projectsMass production, mechanical systems design

While both roles require strong CAD skills and engineering knowledge, Prototype Design Engineers focus on creating and testing prototypes to validate new ideas, whereas Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on designing mechanical parts for manufacturing. The roles often overlap in industries like automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics, but their core responsibilities differ in the development process.

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Design Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Prototype Design Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype Design Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype Design Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

Prototype Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prototype Design Engineer job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,260 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Dubuque, IA

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc
See more jobs at Rogers Freels & Associates Incexternal

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support the concept and development of mechanical components and systems using engineering tools and processes.

  • Create and support 2D drawings, specification documentation, and 3D models of components using Creo and Windchill.

  • Collaborate with manufacturing, suppliers, and other teams to develop efficient, cost-effective, and robust designs.

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 Entry-Level to 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.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept and development of mechanical components and systems that may include multiple plastic processes, castings or forgings, stampings, laser cut parts, and welding or bonding of components.

Responsibilities

  • Communication with suppliers and customers on product selection and integration
  • Use of Creo and Windchill to support 3-D Modeling of components, sheet metal and possibly hydraulic or electrical routings.
  • Creation and support of 2D drawings and specification documentation
  • Work with manufacturing, product verification and validation, and suppliers to develop efficient and cost effective designs
  • Compile and furnish necessary information (engineering decisions and reports of pertinent design analyses data) to document the design solution required for building of prototypes and adoption of the design with possible involvement of other functional engineers.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Agricultural 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 Attributes

  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo experience (Preferred)
  • Previous experience with Windchill or PDMLink
  • Strong understanding of GD&T
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment
  • Ability to address quality issues, determine root cause and drive to a corrective action
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective designs

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $60,000-$80,000 – 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