Design Engineer: Lean-Minded Mechanical Innovator

KLA Industries; Waterloo (IA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

KLA Industries in Waterloo, Iowa seeks a Design Engineer to join a collaborative team that creates mechanical products and systems aligned with customer needs. You will participate in planning, testing, and development activities to deliver high-quality solutions.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering with 1–5 years of experience, strong Excel and design software skills, and the ability to apply lean principles and cost awareness in manufacturing processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
• 1–5 years of entry‑level experience.
• Heavy haul trailer and heavy equipment engineering experience a plus.
• Advanced computer skills and understanding of electronic processing.
• Proficiency in Excel and design software systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical and technical skills to understand business practices and automation opportunities.
• Understanding of cost accounting and lean enterprise principles.
• Ability to quickly learn new tools and systems.

Responsibilities

• 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 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; 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.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Analytical thinking

Excel

Design software

Communication

Cost accounting

Lean practices

Learning agility

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Excel

Design software

Job description

KLA Industries in Waterloo, Iowa seeks a Design Engineer to join a collaborative team that creates mechanical products and systems aligned with customer needs. You will participate in planning, testing, and development activities to deliver high-quality solutions.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering with 1–5 years of experience, strong Excel and design software skills, and the ability to apply lean principles and cost awareness in manufacturing processes.