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Tool Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Three Point Solutions

Tool Designer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$34 - $48/hr

Apply GD&T and engineering standards to tooling designs * Coordinate tooling design, procurement ... Tool design experience * Creo or Solid Modeling (SolidWorks, Creo Parametric) * 3D CAD modeling and ...

Three Point Solutions

Tool Designer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Design tooling, fixtures, gauges, and assemblies * Lead tooling development for new and revised ... Engineering background or equivalent experience * Ability to work independently and guide others ...

AFC Industries

Tool Designer

Newton, IA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Tool Designer - Newton, IA * Requirements for this position include a 2-year diploma/degree in ... Provide Engineering & design support to customers, customer service, outside sales staff, quotation ...

AFC Industries

Tool Designer

Newton, IA

$24 - $28/hr

Tool Designer - Newton, IA * Requirements for this position include a 2-year diploma/degree in ... Provide Engineering & design support to customers, customer service, outside sales staff ...

Qorvo, Inc.

Staff RFIC Design Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site +1

$144K - $187K/yr

Switch/LNA/RF IC Design Engineer, the design of GaAs/SOI/SiGe/CMOS based switch and LNA or RFIC ... Interact with internal and external modeling and tool providers to provide feedback based on the ...

IPG Photonics

Sr. Virtual Solutions Engineer

Davenport, IA

$92K - $127K/yr

As a pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers, we are committed to ... Direct Mechanical Design and Tool Design in implementing the validated layout for detailed design ...

Invio Automation

Project Engineer

Eldridge, IA

Review with internal design engineering team all required design buyoff math representations to include assembly environment 3d/2d, station layouts and tool design for general appearance and accuracy ...

IPG Photonics

Sr. Virtual Solutions Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

$92K - $127K/yr

Direct Mechanical Design and Tool Design in implementing the validated layout for detailed design ... Four-year engineering degree or equivalent education and experience. Experience: * Ten or more ...

Invio Automation

Project Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

Review with internal design engineering team all required design buyoff math representations to include assembly environment 3d/2d, station layouts and tool design for general appearance and accuracy ...

IPG Photonics

Senior Virtual Solutions Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$92K - $127K/yr

Direct Mechanical Design and Tool Design in implementing the validated layout for detailed design ... Four-year engineering degree or equivalent education and experience. Experience: * Ten or more ...

IPG Photonics

Sr. Virtual Solutions Engineer

Davenport, IA

$99K - $136K/yr

Direct Mechanical Design and Tool Design in implementing the validated layout for detailed design ... Four-year engineering degree or equivalent education and experience. Experience: * Ten or more ...

Kyyba Inc

Industrial Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$65K - $88K/yr

Industrial Engineer Location: Waterloo, IA Duration: 24+ Months Contract (possible extension upon ... Develop and improve manufacturing methods, tooling, tool design, and processes. Participate in ...

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All JobsTool Design Engineer JobsTool Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Tool Design Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$50.3K

$85K

$125.4K

How much do tool design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for tool design engineer in Iowa is $84,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tool design engineer?

Tool Design Engineers are professionals who create and develop tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and other devices used in manufacturing processes. They work closely with production and engineering teams to design tools that improve efficiency, ensure product quality, and enhance safety. Their responsibilities include designing tools using CAD software, selecting appropriate materials, and overseeing the testing and modification of prototypes. Tool Design Engineers play a crucial role in optimizing production workflows and reducing costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tool design engineer?

To thrive as a Tool Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, CAD modeling, and an understanding of manufacturing processes, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications like ASME are often required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure the creation of precise, efficient, and cost-effective tools that meet production needs and quality standards.

What are some typical challenges tool design engineers face when collaborating with manufacturing teams?

Tool Design Engineers often work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure that the tools they design are feasible, efficient, and meet production needs. A common challenge is balancing innovative tool design with practical manufacturing constraints, such as material costs or equipment capabilities. Effective communication is essential to translate technical drawings into actionable solutions and to address any unforeseen production issues quickly. By building strong relationships and maintaining open dialogue, Tool Design Engineers can help streamline production processes and drive continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Tool Design Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectTool Design EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing tools and dies used in manufacturing processesPlanning and optimizing manufacturing processes to produce products efficiently
Required SkillsCAD/CAM, mechanical design, materials knowledgeProcess improvement, production planning, quality control
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, machine shops, manufacturing plantsFactory floors, production lines, engineering offices
Common CertificationsCAD certifications, mechanical engineering degreesSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, engineering degrees

While both roles support manufacturing, Tool Design Engineers focus on creating the tools and dies needed for production, whereas Manufacturing Engineers optimize the overall manufacturing process to improve efficiency and quality.

What does a tool design engineer do?

A tool design engineer develops and creates tools, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. They analyze product specifications, use CAD software to design tools, and collaborate with production teams to ensure functionality and efficiency. Their work often involves testing prototypes and refining designs to improve manufacturing quality and productivity.
More about Tool Design Engineer jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Tool Design Engineer jobs in IA?

For Tool Design Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Tool Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tool Design Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,955 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Tool Designer

Three Point Solutions

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$34 - $48/hr

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Title:         Tool Designer
Client:              Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Location:         Waterloo, IA 50703
Duration:         24 Months (Possible Extension/Conversion)
Shift:                1st Shift (6:00 AM – 2:30 PM, OT Likely)

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop manufacturing tooling, fixtures, gauges, assemblies, and equipment
• Create 3D models and detailed 2D manufacturing drawings
• Support machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly operations
• Apply GD&T and engineering standards to tooling designs
• Coordinate tooling design, procurement, and implementation activities
• Manage tooling projects from concept through build and tryout
• Collaborate with machinists, welders, inspectors, engineers, and suppliers
• Conduct design reviews and provide technical guidance
• Support manufacturing process improvements and lean initiatives
• Troubleshoot tooling and manufacturing issues and implement solutions
• Manage external tooling vendors and suppliers
• Ensure revision control, documentation accuracy, and drawing standards compliance

Required Skills

• Tool design experience
• Creo or Solid Modeling (SolidWorks, Creo Parametric)
• 3D CAD modeling and 2D drafting
• GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
• Tooling, fixture, and gauge design
• Manufacturing process knowledge
• Fabrication and machining methods
• Engineering drawing interpretation
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting
• Project coordination and communication skills

Preferred Skills

• C++ programming
• Python programming
• SQL knowledge
• Project Management experience
• Supply Management/Purchasing experience
• Lean Manufacturing exposure
• Vendor/Supplier coordination
• Process improvement experience

Ideal Background

• Tool Designer
• Tooling Engineer
• Fixture Design Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineer (Tooling)
• Mechanical Design Engineer
• Tool & Die Designer
• Product Design Engineer (Manufacturing)
• CAD Designer – Manufacturing

Education

• Engineering Degree preferred (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related field)
• Recent graduates considered if they have internships and strong Creo/Solid Modeling experience
• 5+ years of Tool Design experience highly preferred

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