Product Safety Engineer Jobs in Iowa
Product Safety Engineer jobs in Iowa concentrate in agricultural equipment manufacturing, industrial machinery, food processing, and precision engineering, with demand at every level from entry-level compliance analysts to senior risk assessment leads. Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport anchor most of the hiring, where established employers such as John Deere, Collins Aerospace, and Pella Corporation maintain significant engineering operations. The most in-demand specialties include functional safety, regulatory compliance with OSHA and ASTM standards, and product lifecycle risk management. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Product Safety Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 111+ Product Safety Engineer jobs
Department Summary:
The Drake Public Safety Department provides comprehensive safety, security, and emergency response services for the Drake University community. The department is staffed by trained public safety professionals who work 24/7 to protect students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Services include campus patrol, emergency response, crime prevention, access control, parking enforcement, safety education, special event security, and transportation programs such as Safe Ride. Public Safety works closely with local law enforcement, fire, and emergency management agencies to maintain a safe and welcoming campus environment while supporting the university's educational mission.
Job Summary:
The Assistant Director of Public Safety & University Operations supports the overall leadership, coordination, and execution of safety and security operations at Drake University. This role plays a critical part in maintaining a safe campus environment by overseeing day-to-day public safety functions, Clery Act compliance review, operational readiness, and on-call supervisory responsibilities.
Working along with the Executive Director of Public Safety and University Operations, the Assistant Director helps guide department operations, ensures consistent service delivery, and contributes to a proactive, community-oriented approach to campus safety.
Minimum Qualifications:
* At least 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in public safety, law enforcement, campus safety, or a related field.
* Demonstrated supervisory or leadership experience.
* Strong knowledge of incident response, security practices, and safety operations.
* Familiarity with Clery Act requirements or willingness to complete Clery training upon hire.
* Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to work rotating on-call shifts and respond to campus during emergencies.
* Must work on campus; this is an in-person position.
Preferred Qualifications:
* Master's degree in a related field.
* Experience in higher education public safety or campus security operations.
* Experience reviewing or managing Clery Act compliance, crime reporting, and related federal reporting requirements.
* Experience conducting investigations, threat assessments, or critical incident reviews.
* Knowledge of emergency management principles, incident command systems (ICS), and crisis response planning.
* Experience leading training programs, policy development, accreditation initiatives, or organizational improvement efforts.
* Professional certifications such as IACLEA, FEMA, NIMS/ICS, CPP, PSP, or related public safety credentials.
Job Duties:
Operational Leadership – 45%
Clery Act Compliance – 15%
On-Call Responsibilities – 10%
Public Safety Functions – 10%
Collaboration & Campus Partnerships – 10%
Administrative Responsibilities – 5%
Other Duties as Assigned – 5%
‌Special Instructions to Applicants:
For consideration, you must apply online. Please include a resume and cover letter.
If you have any questions about this job positing or the application process, please email scott.law@drake.edu
A review of applications will begin immediately. This position will remain open until filled .
All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
About Drake:
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Learn more about why Drake is an exceptional place to work: An Exceptional Working Environment | Drake University
Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: 515.271.3133; email: jobs@drake.edu ) and let us know how we can assist you.
At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Department Summary:
The Drake Public Safety Department provides comprehensive safety, security, and emergency response services for the Drake University community. The department is staffed by trained public safety professionals who work 24/7 to protect students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Services include campus patrol, emergency response, crime prevention, access control, parking enforcement, safety education, special event security, and transportation programs such as Safe Ride. Public Safety works closely with local law enforcement, fire, and emergency management agencies to maintain a safe and welcoming campus environment while supporting the university's educational mission.
Job Summary:
The Assistant Director of Public Safety & University Operations supports the overall leadership, coordination, and execution of safety and security operations at Drake University. This role plays a critical part in maintaining a safe campus environment by overseeing day-to-day public safety functions, Clery Act compliance review, operational readiness, and on-call supervisory responsibilities.
Working along with the Executive Director of Public Safety and University Operations, the Assistant Director helps guide department operations, ensures consistent service delivery, and contributes to a proactive, community-oriented approach to campus safety.
Minimum Qualifications:
* At least 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in public safety, law enforcement, campus safety, or a related field.
* Demonstrated supervisory or leadership experience.
* Strong knowledge of incident response, security practices, and safety operations.
* Familiarity with Clery Act requirements or willingness to complete Clery training upon hire.
* Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to work rotating on-call shifts and respond to campus during emergencies.
* Must work on campus; this is an in-person position.
Preferred Qualifications:
* Master's degree in a related field.
* Experience in higher education public safety or campus security operations.
* Experience reviewing or managing Clery Act compliance, crime reporting, and related federal reporting requirements.
* Experience conducting investigations, threat assessments, or critical incident reviews.
* Knowledge of emergency management principles, incident command systems (ICS), and crisis response planning.
* Experience leading training programs, policy development, accreditation initiatives, or organizational improvement efforts.
* Professional certifications such as IACLEA, FEMA, NIMS/ICS, CPP, PSP, or related public safety credentials.
Job Duties:
Operational Leadership – 45%
Clery Act Compliance – 15%
On-Call Responsibilities – 10%
Public Safety Functions – 10%
Collaboration & Campus Partnerships – 10%
Administrative Responsibilities – 5%
Other Duties as Assigned – 5%
‌Special Instructions to Applicants:
For consideration, you must apply online. Please include a resume and cover letter.
If you have any questions about this job positing or the application process, please email scott.law@drake.edu
A review of applications will begin immediately. This position will remain open until filled .
All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
About Drake:
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Learn more about why Drake is an exceptional place to work: An Exceptional Working Environment | Drake University
Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: 515.271.3133; email: jobs@drake.edu ) and let us know how we can assist you.
At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
See All 111+ Product Safety Engineer Jobs in Iowa
Find roles in Iowa that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Product Safety Engineer JobsProduct Safety Engineer Jobs by City in Iowa
Where Iowa roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Product Safety Engineer Job Market in Iowa
A snapshot from current Iowa openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Manufacturing
- Food & Beverage
- Chemicals & Materials
- Staffing & Recruiting
What Iowa Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in product safety engineer jobs across Iowa.
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering or a closely related field
- Experience applying safety standards such as OSHA, ASTM, UL, or ISO 13849 in a manufacturing environment
- Demonstrated ability to conduct failure mode and effects analysis and root cause investigations
- Professional Engineer licensure in Iowa or eligibility to obtain it preferred for senior roles
- Familiarity with Iowa's manufacturing regulatory environment and product liability documentation requirements
- Strong written communication skills for preparing safety reports, test protocols, and compliance filings
Product Safety Engineer Jobs in Iowa: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a product safety engineer in Iowa?
Most product safety engineer roles in Iowa require a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering. While Iowa does not mandate a state-specific safety engineering license, many employers prefer candidates who hold or are pursuing a Professional Engineer license through the Iowa Engineering and Land Surveying Examining Board. Earning credentials such as the Certified Functional Safety Expert or Certified Safety Professional also strengthens candidacy, particularly in manufacturing-heavy sectors like agricultural equipment and food processing.
How much do product safety engineers make in Iowa?
Product safety engineers in Iowa earn a median of about $106,350 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $76,830 for the lowest 10% to over $152,830 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire product safety engineers in Iowa?
Companies currently hiring product safety engineers in Iowa include Smithfield Foods, Collins Aerospace, and Turner Construction Company, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Iowa's deep roots in agricultural equipment, aerospace components, and industrial manufacturing mean that large, long-established manufacturers account for a consistent share of openings across the state.
Which Iowa cities have the most product safety engineer jobs?
Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, and Davenport have the most product safety engineer openings in Iowa. Des Moines drives demand as the state's largest metro with a broad industrial and corporate base, Cedar Rapids anchors aerospace and food-sector engineering hiring, and the Quad Cities area along the Iowa-Illinois border hosts major agricultural and heavy-equipment manufacturers whose safety engineering teams draw from both sides of the river.
Are there remote product safety engineer jobs in Iowa?
Yes, but they're less common than in purely desk-based disciplines because product safety work frequently requires hands-on testing, factory floor assessments, and physical product evaluation. About 22% of product safety engineer openings tied to Iowa are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those tend to concentrate in compliance documentation, regulatory submissions, and risk analysis tasks that do not require a physical presence at a manufacturing site.
How can I get hired as a product safety engineer in Iowa with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for quality assurance technician, manufacturing engineering associate, or EHS compliance coordinator roles at Iowa's large manufacturers, then moving laterally into product safety. Employers such as John Deere and Collins Aerospace offer new-graduate engineering rotational programs that include safety and compliance assignments. Building familiarity with FMEA methods, pursuing a Certified Safety Professional associate-level credential, and completing an internship in an Iowa manufacturing or food-processing environment all improve early-career candidacy.
Where can I find and apply to product safety engineer jobs in Iowa?
You can find and apply to product safety engineer jobs in Iowa on Migrate Mate, which lists current Iowa openings updated regularly. Find the roles that fit your experience and target industry, then apply directly through the listings. No sign-up is required to search and apply.
See All 111+ Product Safety Engineer Jobs in Iowa
Find roles in Iowa that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Product Safety Engineer Jobs