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Trailer Manufacturing Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

NOVAE LLC

Finisher

Red Oak, IA · On-site

We're one of the biggest trailer manufacturers in North America--but we haven't lost that shop-floor grit. You'll work with a crew that pulls together, runs hard, and builds quality trailers that ...

NOVAE LLC

Finisher

Clarinda, IA · On-site

We're one of the biggest trailer manufacturers in North America--but we haven't lost that shop-floor grit. You'll work with a crew that pulls together, runs hard, and builds quality trailers that ...

NOVAE LLC

Finisher

Clarinda, IA · On-site

We're one of the biggest trailer manufacturers in North America--but we haven't lost that shop-floor grit. You'll work with a crew that pulls together, runs hard, and builds quality trailers that ...

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Trailer Manufacturing information

What is trailer manufacturing?

A Trailer Manufacturing job involves assembling, welding, and inspecting trailers to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. Workers may be responsible for cutting materials, installing parts, and using specialized tools to build trailers according to blueprints. The job requires attention to detail, mechanical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. Some positions may also include painting, electrical work, or final inspections. Experience in manufacturing or metalworking can be beneficial for this role.

What does a typical workday look like for someone in trailer manufacturing?

A typical day in Trailer Manufacturing involves working on an assembly line or in a fabrication shop, where you'll measure, cut, weld, and assemble metal components according to detailed blueprints or specifications. You'll work closely with team members to install axles, wiring, lighting, and other features while ensuring each trailer meets quality and safety standards. The work is often hands-on and physically active, sometimes requiring the use of heavy machinery or lifting materials. Collaboration and clear communication with engineers, quality inspectors, and fellow assembly workers are common, fostering a supportive and efficient team environment. Most professionals in this field find the work rewarding due to the visible results and opportunities for skill development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in trailer manufacturing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Trailer Manufacturing, you need practical knowledge of welding, fabrication, assembly, and blueprint reading, typically backed by a high school diploma or technical certification. Experience with power tools, metalworking machinery, and quality control systems is often required, and some positions may seek certifications like AWS for welding. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure that trailers are constructed safely, efficiently, and to high-quality standards, which is critical for both customer satisfaction and workplace safety.

What are popular job titles related to Trailer Manufacturing jobs in Iowa?

For Trailer Manufacturing jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trailer Manufacturing jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Trailer Manufacturing jobs in Iowa are:

Trailer Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trailer Manufacturing job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Sr. Engineer Manager of Product Design

XL Specialized Trailers

Manchester, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Sr. Engineer Manager of Product Design (Heavy Haul Trailers)Location: XL Specialized Trailers – Manchester, IA (On-site)Reports To: Sr. Director of Engineering Position SummaryThe Sr. Engineer Manager of Product Design is responsible for leading a team that manages a defined portion of XL's standard product offerings to support the production schedule. This role focuses on ownership, standardization, continuous improvement, and lifecycle support of existing trailer platforms, while ensuring designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, compliant, and scalable. The role works closely with other Sr. Engineering Managers leading sub-teams within the department to ensure alignment, consistency, and effective execution across the product portfolio, while supporting Manufacturing, Warranty, and Customer Service functions, and occasionally Sales. This position is expected to manage and develop people while remaining highly tactical and hands-on with regular on-site engagement. The position blends strong people leadership with hands-on technical oversight and close collaboration with manufacturing, sales, quality, and supply chain. Key ResponsibilitiesLead, develop, and manage a team of product design engineers supporting production and in-market productsOwn product architectures, standards, and design intent across heavy haul trailer platformsPrioritize and assign engineering work based on production needs, product improvements, cost-reduction initiatives, and field feedbackServe as engineering owner for sustaining engineering, product changes, and platform evolution (non-NPD)Ensure engineering support for production, including rapid resolution of design, quality, and manufacturability issuesPartner with Manufacturing Engineering and Production to:Improve weldment, fabrication, and assembly methodsImprove BOM accuracy, drawings, and release qualityLead and participate in structured design reviews and approve engineering changesOversee ECN/ECO execution to ensure timely, accurate, and well-documented product changesEnsure compliance with FMVSS, DOT, and internal engineering and quality standardsApply DFMEA, lessons learned, warranty data, and field feedback to improve durability, safety, and product reliabilityDrive design-for-manufacturing, design-to-cost, and continuous improvement initiativesSupport sales, service, and operations by providing clear engineering guidance and technical explanationsMaintain and improve engineering documentation, databases, and design toolsAssist with development and implementation of standard, pre-engineered product offerings to reduce custom engineering resource demands and improve schedule execution Leadership & CollaborationBuild a culture of accountability, practical engineering judgment, and continuous improvementMentor and develop engineers in technical skills, standards, and problem-solvingCollaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, and Service Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related disciplineExperience in heavy haul trailers, heavy equipment, or fabricated mobile equipmentStrong background in mechanical systems, structures, hydraulics, and manufacturing processesProven experience supporting products in production environments Key CompetenciesPractical, hands-on engineering judgmentStrong problem-solving and root-cause analysis skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to balance cost, performance, manufacturability, and reliabilityProficiency with CAD tools, Excel, and engineering data systemsWork EnvironmentCombination of office and shop-floor supportPrimarily on-site with limited travel as needed