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

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Design Engineer

Wood Dale, IL

$68K - $80K/yr

Design and modify components and assemblies using SolidWorks * Create detailed 2D drawings with ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering * 0-3 years of engineering experience (internships/co ...

Ashby

Design Engineer - Americas

Chicago, IL · Remote

$122K - $220K/yr

You have 2+ years of continuous experience (e.g., internships don't count) as an Engineer or a Designer. You have good proficiency in both Design and Engineering, with exceptional proficiency in the ...

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

Internship or co-op experience in civil design or construction projects. * Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT ...

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

Internship or co-op experience in civil design or construction projects. * Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT ...

SWE Solutions

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

Internship or co-op experience in civil design or construction projects. * Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer-In-Training (EIT ...

Quanta Services

Design Engineer - Civil

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... Required 2.5+ years of relevant experience (not internships) * US driver's license and US work ...

Clayco

Project Engineer - New College Grad

Chicago, IL

$65K - $75K/yr

Project Engineer internship experience or related internship. * Field experience desirable ... No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does. * We work on ...

Clayco

Project Engineer - New College Grad

Chicago, IL

$65K - $75K/yr

Project Engineer internship experience or related internship. * Field experience desirable ... No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does. * We work on ...

Clayco

Project Engineer - New College Grad

Chicago, IL

$65K - $75K/yr

Project Engineer internship experience or related internship. * Field experience desirable ... No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does. * We work on ...

Clayco

Project Engineer - New College Grad

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Project Engineer internship experience or related internship. * Field experience desirable ... No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does. * We work on ...

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All JobsDesign Engineer JobsDesign Engineer Internship JobsDesign Engineer Internship Jobs in Chicago, IL

Design Engineer Internship information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$26

$39

How much do design engineer internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for design engineer internship in Chicago, IL is $26.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectDesign Engineer InternshipDesign Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a relevant degree (e.g., Mechanical, Civil, Electrical Engineering)Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering or related field, with some roles requiring professional licensure
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, often in engineering firms, manufacturing, or construction companiesFull-time professional roles in design departments, engineering firms, or manufacturing companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies to train and evaluate potential future employees; common in engineering and manufacturing sectorsEstablished engineering roles involved in designing products, systems, or structures across various industries

The main difference is that a Design Engineer Internship is a temporary, training-focused position for students or recent graduates, while a Design Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing engineering solutions. Internships provide hands-on experience, whereas full-time roles involve ongoing project responsibilities and career development.

What is a Design Engineer Internship?

A Design Engineer Internship is a temporary position for students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in engineering design. Interns work under the supervision of experienced engineers to assist with designing products, systems, or components using tools like CAD software. They may participate in brainstorming sessions, draft technical drawings, and help test prototypes. This internship helps develop technical skills, real-world problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of the engineering design process.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Design Engineer Intern expect during their internship?

As a Design Engineer Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on projects such as creating CAD models, assisting with prototype development, and supporting design validation tests. Interns often collaborate closely with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, gaining exposure to real-world engineering challenges and iterative design processes. You may also participate in team meetings, contribute to brainstorming sessions, and help document design changes, providing valuable insights into the full product development lifecycle. This role offers a great opportunity to build technical skills, learn industry-standard tools, and understand how engineering teams function in a professional setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Engineer Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals, CAD software proficiency, and coursework or a degree track in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software is often required, and experience with prototyping or 3D printing is a plus. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in collaborative design environments. These competencies enable interns to contribute meaningfully to projects, adapt to technical challenges, and support the innovation process within engineering teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Engineer Internship jobs in Chicago, IL? For Design Engineer Internship jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Engineer Internship jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Design Engineer Internship jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Design Engineer Internship jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Design Engineer Internship job openings:
Design Engineer Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Engineer Internship job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,460 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Design Engineer

Design Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Wood Dale, IL

$68K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Mechanical Engineer
Salary: $68,000 – $80,000
Location: Wood Dale, IL
Industry: Electrical Applications

Our client has been a trusted partner of ours for over 25 years and is a stable, mid-sized manufacturing company with a strong reputation for quality and long-term growth. This is an excellent opportunity for a Mechanical Engineer looking to kick off their career in a hands-on, design-focused role within a collaborative manufacturing environment.

This position is centered on SolidWorks-based product design and core mechanical engineering responsibilities supporting new and existing product lines.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and modify components and assemblies using SolidWorks
  • Create detailed 2D drawings with proper GD&T and manufacturing tolerances
  • Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs)
  • Support prototype development, testing, and design validation
  • Perform basic engineering calculations (stress, load, thermal considerations, material selection)
  • Work with manufacturing to resolve design-related production issues
  • Assist with ECOs (Engineering Change Orders) and documentation updates
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to improve product performance and manufacturability
Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
  • 0–3 years of engineering experience (internships/co-ops welcome)
  • Strong proficiency in SolidWorks
  • Understanding of mechanical fundamentals (statics, materials, heat transfer basics)
  • Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as machining, fabrication, or assembly
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
Why Work Here?

  • Exceptional Health Benefits
  • Great Stability – Established and financially sound organization
  • Well-Tenured Leadership – Strong mentorship and consistent direction
  • High Visibility Role – Direct interaction with leadership and cross-functional teams