1

Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer

Sandoval, IL · On-site

$72K - $82K/yr

Responsibilities A typical day for the design/applications engineer role would include developing ... Over the years, those values and our talented associates have helped us to earn the trust and ...

$60K - $85K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or related field. * 5+ years of relevant experience in civil design; focus on infrastructure, transportation or ...

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or related field. * 5+ years of relevant experience in civil design; focus on infrastructure, transportation or ...

The Company is powered by approximately 13,000 dedicated and talented associates. Visit us at www ... In everything the Lead Design Engineer does, both in projects and daily tasks, LEAN Process ...

The Company is powered by approximately 13,000 dedicated and talented associates. Visit us at www ... In everything the Lead Design Engineer does, both in projects and daily tasks, LEAN Process ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Design Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$40.2K

$80.1K

$127.9K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Illinois is $80,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $92,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate design engineer?

Associate Design Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the development, planning, and creation of new products or systems. They work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to drafting designs, creating prototypes, and conducting tests to ensure functionality and quality. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documentation, using CAD software, and collaborating with other departments to ensure design specifications are met. This role provides foundational experience for a career in engineering design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Design Engineer, you need a solid foundation in engineering principles, CAD design, and a relevant engineering degree such as mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit) and knowledge of relevant codes or certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and attention to detail set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for creating accurate, efficient designs and collaborating effectively with teams to deliver successful engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by associate design engineers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Associate Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new design software, understanding project specifications, and effectively communicating with cross-functional teams. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the technical complexity of projects or the pace of deliverables. To overcome these hurdles, new engineers should take advantage of mentorship opportunities, actively seek feedback, and participate in collaborative meetings to build confidence and technical proficiency. Regularly reviewing documentation and engaging with more experienced colleagues can also help accelerate learning and integration into the team.

What is the difference between Associate Design Engineer vs Design Engineer?

AspectAssociate Design EngineerDesign Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, supporting senior engineersLead or independent projects, more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industriesUsed across similar industries, often with more complex tasks

The Associate Design Engineer typically holds an entry-level position supporting design tasks, while the Design Engineer has more experience and responsibility in leading projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Design Engineer often has additional certifications and a broader scope of work.

What can I do with an associate design engineer's degree?

An associate design engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles focused on designing, analyzing, and testing products or systems. Graduates can work in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or product development, often using CAD software and engineering principles. Additional certifications or experience may be required for advanced positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Design Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,077 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Design Engineer

Sandoval, IL • On-site


Altec

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$72K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities
A typical day for the design/applications engineer role would include developing products, configurations, and BOMs to meet customer specifications for quote development and production in addition to manufacturing support. Regular expectations would include BOM generation, CAD drawings (detail, schematic, and layout drawings), and interfacing with sales, suppliers, customers, and various internal departments to support and improve products.
Develop vehicle schematics and configurations
Design for customer quotation
Develop and maintain BOMs
Design new products/components
Know and apply fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures in the engineering field
Communicate with customers on issues of technical specifications, product design and operation as appropriate
Support Operations, Sales, and Service
Interface directly with Suppliers and Customers
Learn and Utilize Lean principles to improve our products and processes
Work within any of the Altec departments as assigned to grow knowledge and skill for future Altec positions
Basic Qualifications
Qualifications: (Note: if the selected candidate meets the qualifications of a higher level in the Engineering Career Path, the level of this position may be adjusted upward).
ABET EAC certified degree in Engineering required
  • A degree in one of the following majors preferred:
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Agricultural Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • At least 2 years of lean manufacturing engineering experience (preferred)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be able to work with team members and work with minimal supervision
  • Must be willing to travel up to 25% of the time, potentially on short notice, which may include flying

Your Organization
Opportunity
Altec Fenex has just announced an opening for an experienced Design Engineer to join the team! Located approximately one hour east of Saint Louis, MO in Sandoval, IL, Altec Fenex is poised to experience tremendous growth for years to come.
Why Join Altec?
If you're considering a career with Altec, there's never been a better time to join us! Our company was founded on values that place the customer first and prioritize our people as our greatest strength. Over the years, those values and our talented associates have helped us to earn the trust and confidence of customers worldwide. Today, Altec is an innovative, financially sound company that sets the standard of excellence in design, manufacturing and service - and that's why we're the ideal place for you to grow your career.
Founded in 1929, Altec is a privately held company headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama. Altec specializes in the manufacture, sale and service of aerial devices, digger derricks, cranes and specialty equipment for the electric utility, telecommunications, tree care, construction, and light and signs markets. We help our customers dig deeper and reach higher in more than 100 countries around the world.
EEO Statement
Altec Industries, Inc. and its affiliates are equal opportunity employers and maintain affirmative action plans to recruit, retain, develop, and promote qualified individuals without unlawful consideration of race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Altec strives to maintain a work environment free from unlawful discrimination and harassment, where associates are treated with respect and dignity.
Pay Transparency
Pay range: $72,800 to $82,900. We are committed to fair and competitive pay for all associates based on their experience, education, and qualifications.
Should the selected candidate meet the qualifications of a more experienced level in the career path, the job level may be adjusted.

What Altec employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom