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Design Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Toppan

Design Engineer

Dekalb, IL · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

The Design Engineer will lead the design and development of thermoformed packaging products, transforming customer requirements into manufacturable, high-performance packaging solutions. This role ...

Toppan Packaging Americas

Design Engineer

Dekalb, IL · On-site

$115 - $125/hr

The Design Engineer will lead the design and development of thermoformed packaging products, transforming customer requirements into manufacturable, high-performance packaging solutions. This role ...

Toppan

Design Engineer

Dekalb, IL

$115K - $125K/yr

The Design Engineer will lead the design and development of thermoformed packaging products, transforming customer requirements into manufacturable, high-performance packaging solutions. This role ...

Saige Partners

Design Engineer

Huntley, IL · On-site

This is a Direct Hire role Design Engineer - Medical Packaging The Design Engineer is responsible for leading the design and development of thermoformed medical packaging solutions that meet customer ...

Saige Partners

Design Engineer

Dekalb, IL

This is a Direct Hire role Design Engineer - Medical Packaging The Design Engineer is responsible for leading the design and development of thermoformed medical packaging solutions that meet customer ...

Toppan

Design Engineer

Huntley, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Collaborate closely with Tool Design Engineering and production teams to ensure designs are practical, efficient, and manufacturable. * Work with quality and regulatory teams to ensure compliance ...

Toppan

Design Engineer

Huntley, IL

$80K - $100K/yr

Collaborate closely with Tool Design Engineering and production teams to ensure designs are practical, efficient, and manufacturable. * Work with quality and regulatory teams to ensure compliance ...

Suncast Corporation

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$85 - $115/hr

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

suncast

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

suncast

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

suncast

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

suncast

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

suncast

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

Suncast

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

suncast

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

The Senior Design Engineer is responsible for taking a product concept and developing it into a finished product. The Senior Design Engineer will lead all project-based activities from initial CAD ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer develops advanced mechanical designs for both standard and custom plastic assembly products that meet performance specifications, project ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer develops advanced mechanical designs for both standard and custom plastic assembly products that meet performance specifications, project ...

Luxus

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote) Company: Epstein Global (Represented by Luxus Group) Salary: $85,000 - $115,000 annually Experience ...

Luxus

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote) Company: Epstein Global (Represented by Luxus Group) Salary: $85,000 - $115,000 annually Experience ...

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All JobsDesign Engineer JobsDesign Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Design Engineer information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$39.8K

$86.5K

$155.6K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in DeKalb, IL is $86,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,700.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design engineer?

Design engineers develop ideas for new products and determine ways to improve existing products. As a design engineer, you put a creative perspective on your technical engineering knowledge to perform your job duties, which include creating sketches of design ideas and using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to generate plans for prototypes. To ensure the product is viable, you also evaluate other aspects of the product design, such as safety, cost, sustainability, aesthetics, and user experience. You collaborate with a team of technicians and other engineers to run tests, troubleshoot problems, and ultimately produce a newly designed product.

What does a design engineer do?

A Design Engineer is responsible for creating and developing new products, systems, or structures by combining engineering principles with creative design. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed drawings and specifications, working closely with other engineers and teams to ensure functionality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Design Engineers are involved in every stage of product development, from initial concept through prototyping, testing, and final production. Their work often requires problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with teams and translating ideas into workable designs. These abilities ensure innovative, efficient, and manufacturable solutions that meet both technical and client requirements.

How does a design engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Design Engineers regularly work alongside teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and product management to ensure that designs are both innovative and feasible for production. Collaboration often involves participating in cross-functional meetings, reviewing prototypes, and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders. This teamwork is essential to address technical and practical challenges early in the design process, which ultimately helps in delivering a successful product to market. Strong communication and adaptability are key skills for thriving in this collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDesign EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Design certifications often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, project planningManufacturing plants, labs, fieldwork, CAD and testing
Employer & Industry UsageProduct design firms, automotive, aerospace, consumer goodsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Design Engineers focus on creating and developing product designs using CAD tools, while Mechanical Engineers often work on the broader application, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Design Engineers typically emphasize design skills and software proficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers may engage more in analysis and system integration.

What jobs can a design engineer do?

A design engineer creates and develops new products, systems, or structures across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing. They use CAD software, perform simulations, and collaborate with teams to ensure functionality and safety. Design engineers often work in research and development, product design, or process improvement roles.
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The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

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

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Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,518 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Design Engineer

Toppan

Dekalb, IL • On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

TOPPAN Packaging Americas specializes in designing and manufacturing sustainable, high-performance flexible and thermoformed packaging solutions for the food, beverage, medical and consumer goods industries. We offer products like transparent high barrier films, pouches, clamshells and trays, utilizing advanced technology to enhance product safety, visibility and environmental sustainability.
TOPPAN Packaging Americas operates as part of the global TOPPAN group, with 22 manufacturing facilities across North America, Latin America and Europe.
Want to learn more? Visit us at packaging.toppan.com
Summary Description:
Alloyd, a division of Toppan, is an industry leader in designing and producing innovative thermoformed packaging solutions for retail and food markets. Our focus on sustainability, quality, and engineering excellence drives our commitment to delivering packaging that protects products and enhances the customer experience.
The Design Engineer will lead the design and development of thermoformed packaging products, transforming customer requirements into manufacturable, high-performance packaging solutions. This role emphasizes creative product design, tooling design, cross-functional collaboration, and risk mitigation to ensure the successful commercialization of products.
What you'll be doing:
  • Design thermoformed packaging products from concept through production using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks).
  • Translate customer specifications and performance requirements into innovative packaging designs.
  • Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D drawings for packaging products.
  • Design and develop production thermoform tooling and seal tooling to support efficient, high-quality manufacturing.
  • Utilize 3D scanning and 3D printing technologies to support prototype development, design validation, and rapid iteration.
  • Evaluate and select materials aligned with performance, sustainability, and cost objectives.
  • Conduct design feasibility studies, including draft analysis, stackability, and structural integrity of thermoformed parts.
  • Collaborate with sales, project management, and manufacturing teams to ensure product and tooling designs are practical, efficient, and manufacturable.
  • Collaborate closely with Tool Design Engineering to develop a comprehensive understanding of production tooling requirements and capabilities, and cross-train to support integrated design-to-tooling solutions.
  • Participate in customer meetings to understand needs, present design concepts, and refine solutions.
  • Support prototype development and validation, including coordinating sample production and testing.
  • Identify potential design, material, or process risks early in the project lifecycle, and proactively develop solutions to mitigate these risks through critical thinking and effective communication.
  • Ensure designs comply with industry standards, customer requirements, and regulatory guidelines relevant to food and retail packaging.
  • Maintain organized, accurate design documentation and manage design revisions through PDM/PLM systems.
  • Stay current with new materials, design trends, and technologies relevant to the thermoformed packaging industry.

This position is located in DeKalb, IL and 100% onsite
We'd love to hear from you if:
  • Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Packaging Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in packaging design, preferably thermoformed or plastic packaging.
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks strongly preferred).
  • Strong knowledge of design principles for thin-gauge thermoformed packaging, including draft angles, wall thickness, and undercuts.
  • Understanding of material properties relevant to PET, HIPS, PVC, or similar plastics.
  • Familiarity with production tooling processes, with the ability to integrate packaging and tooling design considerations with manufacturing requirements.
  • Ability to identify potential risks during design and commercialization phases, and develop effective mitigation strategies.
  • Excellent problem-solving and communication skills with an eye for design aesthetics and functionality.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Compensation:
The annual base salary range for this role is from $115,000 to $125,000
At TOPPAN Packaging Americas, We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support our employees' overall wellbeing. This includes competitive pay, robust benefits, and programs that help you thrive both personally and professionally. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary based on your work location, employment classification, or collective bargaining agreement
Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services
  • Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family
  • Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute to their fullest potential. We also provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment processes. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.

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