Job Openings
Design Engineer (Entry-Level)
About the job Design Engineer (Entry-Level)
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 positions
The 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:
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Support the design and development of mechanical components and industrial systems
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Assist senior engineers with design reviews, testing support, and product documentation
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Create, update, and maintain engineering drawings, layouts, and technical specifications
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Partner with manufacturing teams to clarify designs, implement revisions, and resolve build issues
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Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on design efficiency and cost reduction
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Support engineering change requests (ECR/ECO) and revision control processes
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Ensure designs comply with internal quality, safety, and manufacturability standards
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Contribute to a collaborative engineering culture focused on learning and execution
Required Qualifications (Non-Negotiable)
These qualifications are mandatory. Candidates who do not meet them will not be considered.
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Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related discipline
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At least 1 year of engineering experience, including internships or co-op experience
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Basic proficiency with CAD tools and mechanical design software
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Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical processes accurately
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Solid written and verbal communication skills
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Ability to work fully onsite in Waterloo, Iowa (local or commutable candidates only)
Preferred Qualifications (Standout Differentiators)
Top candidates will bring:
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Exposure to heavy industrial or high-volume manufacturing environments
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Experience or interest in trailer, heavy equipment, or large mechanical product design
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Familiarity with engineering documentation, drawing control, or revision workflows
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A proactive mindset and eagerness to learn through hands-on collaboration
Why This Role
This is a strong entry point into industrial product design for engineers who want:
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Direct mentorship from experienced engineering leaders
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Real-world manufacturing exposure beyond theoretical design work
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A stable, full-time direct hire opportunity with growth potential
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The chance to contribute to tangible mechanical products built at scale