Design Engineer Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Description

The Mechanical Design Engineer designs and supports precision workholding solutions and industrial equipment, with a strong emphasis on chucking systems and machined components. This role works closely with manufacturing, machining, and project teams to ensure that all designs are practical, manufacturable, and thoroughly documented. Hands-on experience and applied knowledge are highly valued, and candidates who have developed their skills through trades, apprenticeships, or on-the-job learning are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components, assemblies, and detailed drawings using SolidWorks, including parts, assemblies, and fully dimensioned prints.
• Develop and modify workholding and chuck designs for industrial and manufacturing applications, ensuring robust and reliable performance.
• Revise and update drawings based on machining feasibility feedback from machinists and manufacturing personnel.
• Collaborate closely with machinists, manufacturing teams, and project stakeholders to ensure designs align with production capabilities and timelines.
• Create precise and comprehensive documentation with exceptional attention to detail, including bills of materials and revision histories.
• Interpret and apply GD&T correctly and consistently on drawings to ensure proper fit, function, and inspection criteria.
• Manage and maintain design data using Product Data Management (PDM) systems to ensure version control and traceability.
• Support projects through concept, design, prototype, and production phases, providing technical input and design updates as needed.
• Perform basic finite element analysis (FEA) as required to validate designs and support engineering decisions.
• Maintain accurate records and design-related information within ERP systems to support production planning and tracking.
• Support multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, balancing priorities and deadlines effectively.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Buffalo Grove, IL.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $45.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Buffalo Grove,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 14, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.