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Sr Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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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Showing results 1-20

Sr Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$66.2K

$126.4K

$183.2K

How much do sr design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr design engineer in Iowa is $126,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $147,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Sr Design Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, advanced problem-solving skills, and a relevant engineering degree, often with several years of industry experience. Expertise in CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and familiarity with manufacturing processes are typically required, along with certifications like PE or Six Sigma being advantageous. Leadership, collaboration, and effective communication are vital soft skills for guiding teams and managing complex projects. These competencies are crucial to ensure innovative, reliable designs that meet technical requirements and project goals.

What are some common challenges faced by Sr Design Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Sr Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative design solutions with cost and manufacturability constraints, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and ensuring effective communication across multidisciplinary teams. To address these challenges, it's important to stay current with industry tools and best practices, regularly collaborate with manufacturing and quality departments, and prioritize clear documentation. Developing strong project management and interpersonal skills can also help streamline workflow and reduce project bottlenecks.

What are Sr Design Engineers?

Sr Design Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for leading the design and development of products, systems, or components within an engineering team. They oversee the design process, ensuring projects meet technical specifications, regulatory standards, and budget constraints. Sr Design Engineers often mentor junior engineers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and use advanced software tools for modeling and analysis. Their expertise helps drive innovation and ensures the successful delivery of complex engineering projects.

What is the difference between Sr Design Engineer vs Design Engineer?

AspectSr Design EngineerDesign Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, 3+ years experience, possibly professional engineering licenseBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, R&D departments, manufacturing settingsDesign teams, project-based environments, product development
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, electronicsSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Sr Design Engineer and a Design Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. A Sr Design Engineer typically has more years of experience, takes on complex projects, and may mentor junior staff. In contrast, a Design Engineer is often in an earlier career stage, focusing on executing design tasks under supervision. Both roles are essential in product development, but the Sr Design Engineer plays a leadership role in design innovation and project management.

What job categories do people searching Sr Design Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Design Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Sr Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Sr Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Sr Design Engineer job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,404 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Senior Design Engineer

Accounting Search

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


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.