Design Engineer (Entry-Level)

Job Description

Design Engineer (Entry-Level) Location: Onsite – Waterloo, Iowa
Employment Type: Direct Hire | Full-Time
Work Model: 100% Onsite
Compensation: $65,000 – $75,000 base salary
Benefits: Full benefits package
Relocation Assistance: Not available
Openings: 3 positionsThe Opportunity HireNow Staffing is acting as a direct placement partner for an established industrial manufacturing organization seeking early-career Design Engineers to join its growing engineering team in Waterloo, Iowa.This role is an excellent fit for a hands-on mechanical engineering graduate or emerging engineer who wants real exposure to product development inside a heavy industrial environment. You will work closely with senior engineers and manufacturing teams to support the design, documentation, and continuous improvement of mechanical systems used in large-scale equipment production.This is not a purely desk-based design role—successful candidates will be curious, detail-oriented, and eager to learn how engineered products move from concept to shop floor execution .Role Overview As an entry-level Design Engineer, you will contribute to the mechanical design and refinement of critical components and systems while building foundational engineering experience in a structured, high-accountability manufacturing setting.You will support product development efforts, assist with engineering documentation, and collaborate cross-functionally to ensure designs meet quality, safety, and production standards.Key Responsibilities Candidates will be considered for interview based on demonstrated ability to:

• Support the design and development of mechanical components and industrial systems
• Assist senior engineers with design reviews, testing support, and product documentation
• Create, update, and maintain engineering drawings, layouts, and technical specifications
• Partner with manufacturing teams to clarify designs, implement revisions, and resolve build issues
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on design efficiency and cost reduction
• Support engineering change requests (ECR/ECO) and revision control processes
• Ensure designs comply with internal quality, safety, and manufacturability standards
• Contribute to a collaborative engineering culture focused on learning and execution

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related discipline
• At least 1 year of engineering experience , including internships or co-op experience
• Basic proficiency with CAD tools and mechanical design software
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical processes accurately
• Solid written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work fully onsite in Waterloo, Iowa (local or commutable candidates only)

• Exposure to heavy industrial or high-volume manufacturing environments
• Experience or interest in trailer, heavy equipment, or large mechanical product design
• Familiarity with engineering documentation, drawing control, or revision workflows
• A proactive mindset and eagerness to learn through hands-on collaboration

• Direct mentorship from experienced engineering leaders
• Real-world manufacturing exposure beyond theoretical design work
• A stable, full-time direct hire opportunity with growth potential
• The chance to contribute to tangible mechanical products built at scale