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Contract Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer

Moline, IL · On-site

$87K - $127K/yr

Design and prepare plans, drawings, and engineering calculations for streets, utilities, parks ... Prepare project specifications, contract documents, bid materials, and cost estimates * Generate ...

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote ... Develop technical reports, contract plans, specifications, and construction cost estimates.

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote ... Develop technical reports, contract plans, specifications, and construction cost estimates.

Open - Contract / C2H/ FTE Employment Type: Long-term Contract Let's create our future together at ... Design and engineer overhead and underground electric distribution systems, typically operating ...

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote ... Develop technical reports, contract plans, specifications, and construction cost estimates.

Electrical Design Engineer We're looking for an Electrical Design Engineer to support the design ... is a Contract position based out of Naperville, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

Electrical Design Engineer We're looking for an Electrical Design Engineer to support the design ... Contract position based out of Palatine, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Ancona, IL · On-site

$31.25 - $50/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a dedicated Mechanical Design Engineer to contribute to ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Streator, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Ancona, IL · On-site

$31.25 - $50/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a dedicated Mechanical Design Engineer to contribute to ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Streator, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

FPGA Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$55 - $80/hr

FPGA Design Engineer We are seeking a skilled FPGA Design Engineer to join a leading defense ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Schaumburg, IL. Pay and ...

AECOM is seeking a Senior Water Main Design Engineer to support the Chicago Department of Water ... Support cost estimating and preparation of the Term Agreement Contracts for water main and LSLR ...

AECOM is seeking a Senior Water Main Design Engineer to support the Chicago Department of Water ... Support cost estimating and preparation of the Term Agreement Contracts for water main and LSLR ...

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Contract Design Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$37

$64

How much do contract design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract design engineer in Illinois is $37.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.94 and $51.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract design engineer?

A Contract Design Engineer is a professional who designs and develops products, systems, or components on a temporary or project-based contract. They typically work for multiple companies or clients, applying engineering principles to create efficient and functional designs. Responsibilities may include CAD modeling, prototyping, and collaborating with teams to meet project requirements. Contract roles offer flexibility and varied experience but may require frequent job searching.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract design engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and a relevant engineering degree such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks), project management platforms, and certifications like PE or Chartered Engineer status are often preferred. Strong problem-solving, time management, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with cross-functional teams and meeting project deadlines. These abilities are essential for delivering high-quality design solutions on a contractual basis, ensuring project success and client satisfaction.

What are the typical work arrangements and expectations for a contract design engineer?

Contract Design Engineers often work on specific projects with defined durations, which may require flexibility in both location and hours depending on client needs. You might work independently or as part of an engineering team, collaborating closely with project managers, clients, and other stakeholders to deliver design solutions within set timelines. The role frequently involves juggling multiple projects simultaneously, requiring adaptability and strong organizational skills. This variety can provide exciting opportunities to expand your technical expertise, build a robust professional network, and gain exposure to diverse industries and design challenges.

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 Contract Design Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Contract Design Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,388 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Bolingbrook, IL • On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Title: Mechanical Design Engineer 
Location: Bolingbrook, IL
Pay Rate: $35-50 per hour
Hire Type: Contract to Hire
Position Type: Full-Time
Department: New Product Development Engineering

This is a strong opportunity for a hands-on Mechanical Design Engineer who wants to be deeply involved in new product development rather than simply producing drawings. You’ll work on component and assembly design, CAD modeling, prototyping, testing, design for manufacturing, and engineering change releases within a fast-paced, collaborative engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop 3D CAD component and assembly models to solve engineering problems and translate concepts or hand sketches into finished designs.
  • Design and dimension components with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) considerations for molding, machining, and other manufacturing processes.
  • Create simplified CAD models for 3D-printed prototypes and FEA analysis.
  • Participate in prototype development and functional testing of new designs.
  • Manage assigned engineering tasks independently while meeting established schedule and quality expectations.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to understand design requirements and drive product release and validation activities.
  • Identify root causes and develop solutions to engineering and product-related problems.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and help identify opportunities to improve products and engineering processes.
Qualifications
  • Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
  • Must have 3+ years of experience in a technical engineering role involving CAD.
  • Must have strong 3D CAD experience, ideally with Creo or with the ability to learn quickly.
What You’ll Gain
  • New Product Development: Be involved in products from design concept through prototyping, validation, and release.
  • Hands-On Engineering: Work beyond CAD documentation with prototyping, functional testing, problem-solving, and manufacturing considerations.
  • Cross-Functional Exposure: Collaborate with Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Application Engineering, Product Development, and Aftermarket teams.
  • Technical Growth: Expand your expertise in DFM, FEA, FMEA, GD&T, DOE, industry standards, and reliability-focused design.
  • Real Engineering Impact: Help identify root causes, improve designs, and influence products and processes rather than simply executing predetermined designs.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.