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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

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Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

Champaign, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... Engineers & Associates, Inc. is a mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) consulting firm. Since ... We design the systems that make buildings functional, sustainable, and safe, working across health ...

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Donohue and Associates

I&C Engineer/Designer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Design and develop control systems for water/wastewater treatment facilities. * Collaborate with ... An employee-owned engineering consulting firm since 1997, Donohue & Associates has multiple offices ...

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

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Mechanical Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

You will design and coordinate HVAC systems across a wide variety of project types ... Family-friendly activities and attractions Company Description GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc. is ...

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All JobsAssociate Design Engineer JobsAssociate Design Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

Associate Design Engineer information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$41.6K

$82.8K

$132.2K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Champaign, IL is $82,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $95,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an associate design engineer?

An associate design engineer is an entry-level engineering professional involved in designing products, systems, or components under the supervision of senior engineers. They typically use CAD software, have a foundational understanding of engineering principles, and may hold a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. This role often involves collaboration, technical documentation, and supporting design development processes.

What are Associate Design Engineers?

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 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in leadership or specialized roles. High salaries are typically associated with roles requiring advanced certifications, management responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, especially in industries with high demand for technical expertise.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineering professionals such as senior petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, or specialized software engineers in leadership roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and working in high-paying industries or executive positions.
What are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL? For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Design Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:
Associate Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Champaign, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,757 per year, or $39.8 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

Mechanical Design Engineer - Entry Level

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

Champaign, IL • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Hybrid position - remote and on site.
About the Role

We are seeking an entry-level Mechanical Designer to join our MEP team. You will design and coordinate HVAC systems across a wide variety of project types, where your contributions are visible and your work gets built.

We’re not a large corporation — you’ll be a meaningful contributor to real projects from the start, not just another hire.

Responsibilities

  • Designing HVAC systems for a wide range of building types — heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and related mechanical systems
  • Performing load calculations and equipment selection
  • Producing construction documents in Revit and AutoCAD
  • Editing specifications, reviewing shop drawings, and answering RFIs
  • Coordinating with our MEP team across disciplines
  • Conducting site surveys and field verification — required 2 to 4 times per month
  • Applying and staying current with relevant codes and standards — ASHRAE, IMC, and IECC

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
  • A talent for spatial and systems thinking
  • Comfortable learning new software
  • Someone who takes ownership of their work and stays on top of their own workload
  • A clear, collaborative communicator
  • Genuine interest in building a long-term career in HVAC design

Helpful but Not Required

  • Relevant work experience
  • Experience with HAP, Trace 700, or similar load calculation software
  • EIT certification or progress toward PE licensure
  • Proficiency or aptitude in Revit and AutoCAD

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary: $65,000–$75,000, commensurate with experience
  • Year-end bonus: Discretionary, reflecting company performance and individual factors including merit, seniority, and expertise
  • Hybrid work schedule, negotiable
  • Flexible hours
  • Health, dental, & vision insurance
  • FSA: Pre-tax dollars for medical & dependent care
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • PTO: Vacation time that grows with tenure, paid holidays, parental leave
  • Professional development: Employees who choose to pursue certifications are reimbursed for exam fees and renewals

Company Description

GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc. is a mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) consulting firm. Since 1949, we have built our reputation through quality work, integrity, and service.
We design the systems that make buildings functional, sustainable, and safe, working across healthcare, K–12, commercial, municipal, and specialty building types.
We’re a close-knit team of about 20 people. We treat our employees like people with lives and commitments outside the office, and our retention speaks to that. Our team includes people who have been with us from one to thirty years.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities. We benefit from the many perspectives our people bring, and we’re committed to continuing to grow.