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Senior Design Engineer Jobs in Kalispell, MT (NOW HIRING)

Nomad GCS

Mechanical Engineer III

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Support senior engineers with design tasks and documentation. * Exposure to product lifecycle phases (design, build, test, or release). * Create and update CAD models and drawings (both revision ...

Nomad GCS

Electrical Engineer III

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

Support senior engineers with electrical design tasks and documentation. * Exposure to at least one full product lifecycle phase (design, build, test, or release). * Create and update schematics ...

Nomad GCS

Electrical Engineer III

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

Support senior engineers with electrical design tasks and documentation. * Exposure to at least one full product lifecycle phase (design, build, test, or release). * Create and update schematics ...

Nomad GCS

Electrical Engineer III

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

$91K - $93K/yr

Support senior engineers with electrical design tasks and documentation. * Exposure to at least one full product lifecycle phase (design, build, test, or release). * Create and update schematics ...

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All JobsDesign Engineer JobsSenior Design Engineer JobsSenior Design Engineer Jobs in Kalispell, MT

Senior Design Engineer information

See Kalispell, MT salary details

$62.2K

$120K

$189.2K

How much do senior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior design engineer in Kalispell, MT is $119,988.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,800.00 and $136,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Senior Design Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT?

For Senior Design Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Kalispell, MT are hiring for Senior Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Kalispell, MT with the most Senior Design Engineer job openings:

Senior Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Design Engineer job openings in Kalispell, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,500 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Senior Highway Engineer

Robert Peccia & Associates

Kalispell, MT • On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Senior Highway Engineer
  • Streets & Highways Group
  • All Office Locations
  • $95,000 - $120,000 (base salary)
  • Regular Full-Time

Robert Peccia & Associates (RPA) is excited to offer a dynamic opportunity for a Senior Highway Engineer within our Streets and Highways Group. In this role, you will provide design leadership and technical support on roadway and transportation infrastructure projects across the northwest, contributing your expertise to one of the region’s top-ranked transportation teams. We are seeking an innovative, self-motivated, and team-oriented leader with a passion for transportation infrastructure, a comprehensive range of roadway design experience, and strong leadership skills.

This role offers significant growth opportunities, including career advancement and leadership pathways within RPA.

As a Senior Highway Designer, you will work with a team of engineers on diverse transportation design projects, from rural highways to complex urban interchanges. Responsibilities include:

  • Design Leadership: Serve as the discipline lead for roadway design on projects of varying complexity and scope.
  • Project Management: Plan, manage, and oversee all aspects of small- to medium-sized projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables on time and within budget.
  • Collaboration: Act as a team leader for complex, multi-disciplinary projects, coordinating with engineers, clients, and agencies.
  • Client Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and agencies through proactive communication and exceptional service.
  • Mentorship: Guide and develop junior engineers, fostering technical and professional growth within the team.
  • Documentation & Analysis: Prepare written reports, calculations, and comprehensive design documentation.

Requirements

We are looking for a highly skilled professional who combines strong technical knowledge in highway design with leadership abilities and a commitment to teamwork. The ideal candidate will meet the following qualifications:

  • Education and Certification: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (or related field) with a Professional Engineering (PE) license in Montana, or ability to obtain within six months.
  • Experience: 6+ years of progressive experience in roadway design. Prior design experience with projects for the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) or Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is highly desirable.
  • Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in roadway design software including Civil3D, MicroStation, and GEOPAK.
  • Personal Attributes: Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple deadlines effectively. Strong interpersonal skills, common sense, and a solutions-oriented approach are essential for success in this role.

Benefits

About RPA

Robert Peccia & Associates (RPA) is a distinguished, 100% employee-owned civil engineering, planning, and land surveying firm headquartered in Montana. Established in 1978, we are renowned for our personalized service and commitment to designing practical and sustainable solutions for our clients.

We champion an open leadership style based on mutual trust, empowering our team members to influence the future of RPA. Our commitment to a collaborative culture has fostered consistent growth and one of the lowest staff turnover rates in the industry. At RPA, our core values—listening, respect, integrity, empowerment, teamwork, and social responsibility—drive our success and shape our dynamic work environment.

Company Culture and Benefits

At RPA, our employee-owners are the cornerstone of our success. That is why we invest in you, your professional development, your community, and your future, celebrating both your work achievements and personal milestones. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Generous Retirement Plan: RPA contributes to your retirement future, with no match required, starting on day one.
  • 100% Employee Owned: Our Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP) provides you with direct ownership in the company, aligning your success with ours.
  • Competitive Salary and Bonuses: Enjoy a rewarding compensation structure including competitive base salary and company-wide bonus program.
  • Flexible Work Environment: We support work-life balance with excellent leave policies, flexible schedules, and paid time over 40 hours per week.
  • Professional Growth: We support and encourage professional development and involvement in civic/professional organizations and provide ample opportunity for career growth within RPA.

Additional details about our benefits can be found on our RPA Advantage Page.