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

Donohue and Associates

I&C Engineer/Designer

Chicago, 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 ...

Donohue and Associates

I&C Engineer/Designer

Naperville, 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 ...

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

Associate Design Engineer information

See Joliet, IL salary details

$40.2K

$80K

$127.8K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Joliet, IL is $79,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $91,900.00 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 Joliet, IL?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Joliet, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Joliet, IL?

For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Joliet, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Joliet, IL are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Joliet, IL with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:

Associate Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Joliet, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,979 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Associate Principal / Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL • On-site

Interface Engineering
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Interface Engineeringexternal

$122K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Join a People-First, Employee-Owned Firm That's Redefining Flexibility and Growth
Associate Principal / Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (MEP) - Chicago, IL (Hybrid)
Interface Engineering Inc.
At Interface Engineering, we believe your career should be as dynamic and rewarding as the projects you support. As a 100% employee-owned firm, we're proud to offer our Collaboration from Home policy-giving you the flexibility of a hybrid schedule (2 days in-office per week minimum) while staying connected to a team that values innovation, inclusion, and impact.
Why Interface?
We are not just engineers-we are collaborators, mentors, and trailblazers in high-performance design. Our Pathway to Leadership program offers a transparent, personalized roadmap for career advancement, empowering you to grow in the direction that excites you most.
Our Culture
Interface has the company culture and work environment you have been seeking! You will find a workplace with a culture of fun, and superior work/life balance benefits, expansive personal development opportunities, innovative technology, and great relationships. You will work alongside MEP industry leaders who will help you develop your own thriving career path. Our work takes us around the globe and on a steady growth curve. Our success and innovation are powered by people like you!
Our Core Values:
Our core values capture the essence of who we are. We live and breathe them, and they inform everything we do. We are:
  • Conscientious.
  • Empowered.
  • Respectful.
  • Resilient.
  • Transformative.

Key Responsibilities:
As an Associate Principal / Senior Mechanical Design Engineer at Interface, you will be taking ownership as a discipline leader on multiple projects. Your duties will include, but may not be limited to:
  • Build and lead local MEP design teams.
  • Develop and maintain a book of local clients (architects and owners). HVAC system selection, engineering & design.
  • Preparation of HVAC drawings, analysis, specifications, and calculations.
  • Demonstrate excellent communication skills.
  • Provide oversight of HVAC support staff.
  • Provide construction administration & site observations related to your projects.
  • Provide exemplary service to team members and clients.

What You'll Bring:
Required
  • BSME
  • 10+ years' experience in MEP design/consulting
  • Team leadership/management experience
  • Project Management Experience in the MEP space
  • High-energy client services skills
  • Excellent communication ability
  • Complete understanding of building codes
  • Thorough design system knowledge

Preferred
  • A Professional Engineering License (or equivalent experience)
  • LEED Accreditation
  • Working IES-VE Knowledge

What You'll Love:
  • Competitive Pay: $122,712 to $150,404 annual salary and conditional bonus
  • Employee Ownership: Build equity through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Robust Benefits: 401(k), medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, transportation benefits...and more!
  • Generous Time Off: PTO, paid holidays, and company closure to clients from Christmas to New Year's
  • Purpose-Driven Culture: Paid volunteer time and a commitment to social equity
  • Career Development: Work alongside industry leaders and access continuous learning opportunities

Ready to grow with us?
If you are looking for a role where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your work makes a difference-apply today and become part of the Interface Engineering family.
Social Equity:
Interface is committed to social equity within our walls and in our communities. We are a diverse, inclusive, and responsible firm. Interface provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable federal or state-protected classifications. We support local business and seek to partner with small and minority-owned firms on our projects. Our staff is empowered to design community service programs (e.g., clean up beaches, serve meals at shelters, tutor school-aged children, etc.) - using paid volunteer time.
Please note: H1-B visa sponsorship or transfer is not approved for this position.
#LI-EJ1
#interfaceengineering
Pay Range: $122,712 - $150,404 per year

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