Design Engineer

Join the Team That Builds Life-Saving Vehicles

Why Life Line?

At Life Line, you won t just build parts - you ll help build ambulances that save lives every day. When you join our team, you become part of something bigger. We foster a supportive, team-oriented environment where your skills grow, your hard work is valued, and your contributions truly make a difference.

Are you passionate about product development and innovation in the automotive or emergency vehicle industry?

Do you enjoy working with cross-functional teams to ensure products meet the highest standards? If so, Life Line Emergency Vehicles is looking for a Design Engineer to play a key role in designing our cutting-edge ambulances.

This onsite position is based in Sumner, Iowa , where you will collaborate with sales, production, and quality teams to ensure our vehicles meet rigorous industry standards. This position will be involved with the design of new product developments.

We are seeking an entry-level Design Engineer with a degree in Mechanical Engineering - to join our team. The ideal candidate will have 0-3 years of experience, a hands-on approach to problem solving, and an entrepreneurial mindset . This position offers the opportunity to contribute to the design, testing, and development of innovative ambulance products.

Key Responsibilities:

New Product Development:

Creating designs and drawings to produce custom ambulances to meet customer provided specifications. This position is accountable for but not limited to the following: design of the ambulance body structure, analysis of the body structure and chassis loading, problem solving design issues, reviewing, and incorporating new products into the designs, establishing, and maintaining good design practices.

Contribute innovative ideas in collaborative sessions, balancing creativity with compliance. Support the development of new solutions that enhance product functionality, design, and user experience.

Partner with the production and quality teams to support the entire product development lifecycle. Maintain strong communication channels to address challenges and align efforts across departments.

Evaluate dealer customization requests, assessing feasibility within design and production constraints. Prepare cost estimates and ensure proposals align with production timelines and budget expectations.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor s degree in Mechanical Engineering

0-3 years of relevant experience

Experience with 3D CAD software, Autodesk Inventor preferred

Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

Strong mechanical aptitude, demonstrated through hands-on project work or prior experience

Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects

Ability to work on multiple projects while prioritizing tasks

Entrepreneurial spirit and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Willingness to travel periodically to suppliers, testing facilities, and trade shows

Preferred Experience

Familiarity with K-spec, NFPA, and CAAS standards

Ability to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences

Understanding of testing protocols and certification processes

Perform engineering calculations and design analysis, including FEA

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications

Experience with electrical systems would be beneficial

Knowledge of ambulance and/or aftermarket upfitting of vehicles beneficial

Contingencies of Employment

Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and physical examination

Successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, if applicable to the position

Equal Opportunity Employer

Life Line is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.