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Senior Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Ethos

Senior Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA

Senior Design Engineer The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting in a finished product ...

Ethos

Senior Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Senior Design Engineer The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting in a finished product ...

Ethos

Senior Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Senior Design Engineer The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting in a finished product ...

Masaba Inc.

Sr. Design Engineer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

POSITION: Sr. Design Engineer COMPANY PROFILE: Our client custom designs and builds specialized construction and mining equipment. The work alongside their customers to design the machinery that ...

Bazooka Farmstar

Senior Design Engineer

Washington, IA

$75K - $100K/yr

Senior Design EngineerLocation: Washington, IA, 52353 Position Overview Performs a variety of engineering work in leading, planning, and design (or redesign) of products and/or product components.

FTHR

Design Engineer

Cresco, IA · On-site

Senior Design Engineer Location: Cresco, IA Job Summary: This role owns on the design, development, and continuous improvement of trailer systems, including structural frames, suspension systems ...

Intellectt INC

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Forest City, IA · On-site

$82.60K - $113.90K/yr

My name is Vyshu, and I'm reaching out from Intellectt Inc. regarding an exciting contract opportunity for a Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer based in Forest City, lowa with one of our prestigious ...

Intellectt INC

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Forest City, IA · On-site

$82.60K - $113.90K/yr

My name is Vyshu, and I'm reaching out from Intellectt Inc. regarding an exciting contract opportunity for a Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer based in Forest City, IA with one of our prestigious ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... senior-most project manager on an assigned project. Collaborate with engineers to solve design ... issues when they arise. * Comply with Risk Management Programs applicable to assigned projects ...

Keen Project Solutions LLC

Design Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... senior-most project manager on an assigned project. Collaborate with engineers to solve design ... issues when they arise. * Comply with Risk Management Programs applicable to assigned projects ...

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Senior Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$59.2K

$114.1K

$179.9K

How much do senior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior design engineer in Iowa is $114,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,200.00 and $130,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Design Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, advanced problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards or certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer) are typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and project management skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure the delivery of innovative, reliable designs while leading teams and projects to successful outcomes.

How does a Senior Design Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a product development cycle?

Senior Design Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from manufacturing, quality assurance, project management, and marketing to ensure the successful development and launch of products. They lead design reviews, gather input from other departments, and address technical challenges collaboratively. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to balance design intent with practical constraints such as cost, manufacturability, and regulatory requirements. Regular meetings and iterative feedback loops are a standard part of the process, making teamwork and adaptability essential for success.

What does a Senior Design Engineer do?

A Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading the design and development of products, systems, or components, often within engineering or manufacturing industries. They create detailed technical drawings and specifications, oversee project timelines, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure designs meet safety, quality, and efficiency standards. Additionally, they mentor junior engineers, troubleshoot design challenges, and may interact with clients or stakeholders to clarify requirements and present solutions. Their role combines technical expertise, project management, and leadership skills.

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

AspectSenior Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience in design, possibly professional engineering licenseBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field, design experience
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, project management, cross-disciplinary collaborationDesign and development of mechanical components, CAD work, prototype testing
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, product design, machinery development

The main difference is that a Senior Design Engineer typically has more experience, leadership responsibilities, and may oversee projects, while a Mechanical Design Engineer focuses on creating and testing mechanical components. Both roles require similar technical skills and work in related environments, but the senior position involves more oversight and strategic input.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Design Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Senior Design Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Design Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Design Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Design Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Design Engineer jobs in IA? For Senior Design Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Senior Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Design Engineer job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,088 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Senior Design Engineer

Accounting Search

Waterloo, IA

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Senior Design Engineer

Location: Waterloo, Iowa

Salary: $80-100K plus 10% bonus

Job Summary of the Senior Design Engineer: The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with a team of up to 10 Design Engineers responsible for designing mechanical products and systems, resulting in a finished product that meets the needs and expectations of the customer.

Job Duties & Responsibilities of the Senior Design Engineer:

  • Plan and complete engineering projects by studying customer requirements, market demand, and competitors' products; scheduling and assigning employees; following up on work results.
  • Evaluate mechanical systems and products by designing and conducting research programs; applying principles of mechanics, hydraulics, and materials.
  • Confirm system and product capabilities by designing feasibility and testing methods; testing properties.
  • Develop mechanical products by studying customer requirements; researching and testing manufacturing and assembly methods and materials, and soliciting observations from operators.
  • Develop manufacturing processes, focusing on cost reduction and process improvement by designing and modifying equipment for fabricating, building, assembling, and installing components.
  • Assure system and product quality by designing testing methods; testing finished product and system capabilities; confirming fabrication, assembly, and installation process.
  • Prepare product reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends.
  • Provide engineering information by answering questions and requests.
  • Maintain product and company reputation by complying with government regulations.
  • Maintain system and product database by writing computer programs and entering data.
  • Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies.
  • Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.

Education & Experience Requirements of the Senior Design Engineer:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
  • Senior-level/experienced Engineer with 5+ years experience.
  • Heavy haul trailer engineering experience a plus.
  • Heavy equipment engineering experience a plus
  • Must have advanced computer skills and be able to understand electronic processing.
  • Technically proficient in Excel, and Design software systems.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective interface with all internal and external contacts.
  • Possess analytical and technical skills required to understand business practices and recommend proper automation opportunities.
  • Must have a functional understanding of cost accounting.
  • Must be an innovator and embrace lean enterprise principles and practices.
  • Ability to quickly learn new tools, systems, etc.

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