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Design Engineer Jobs in Peoria, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Design Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$112K - $169K/yr

Lead all technical aspects of current production MWL design control and worldwide production. * MWL engineering and/or product group leader for major quality events worldwide that impacts machine ...

CASTING DESIGN EXPERIENCE is a must. Ability to interpret FEA results is also preferred. Prefer experience with Teamcenter Engineering. Creativity, verbal and written communication skills, analytical ...

Discuss unresolved engineering questions with sales for clarification * Make sure the design is what the customer is expecting * Perform calculations and analysis * Use spreadsheets, calculator and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$68 - $102/hr

Discuss unresolved engineering questions with sales for clarification * Make sure the design is what the customer is expecting * Perform calculations and analysis * Use spreadsheets, calculator and ...

New

Caterpillar's Earth Moving division is hiring for Sr. Design Engineer in Peoria, IL! Role Summary: This position will design, analyze, and test components and systems used in Caterpillar machine ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$75K - $93K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering * Master's degree is overqualified * 5+ years of industry experience REQUIRED TECHNICAL SKILLS: * Must have design experience with Creo * Hands on ...

Showing results 21-40

Design Engineer information

See Peoria, IL salary details

$39.7K

$86.5K

$155.5K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Peoria, IL is $86,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,700.00 and $96,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Peoria, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,491 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Senior Design Engineer

Caterpillar

Peoria, IL • On-site

$112K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 488 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Engineering
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Caterpillar's Earthmoving division is hiring a Medium Wheel Loader (MWL) Machine Lead (internally known as a Senior Design Engineer) to help drive innovation of our products globally.
This role requires excellent technical skills, project management, and effective project/daily assignment execution. Strong teamwork, collaboration, and organizational skills, along with solid technical background is essential. You will communicate technical information effectively with development engineers, management, process partners and dealers.
What You Will Do
  • Lead all technical aspects of current production MWL design control and worldwide production.
  • MWL engineering and/or product group leader for major quality events worldwide that impacts machine shipments.
  • Lead the implementation of top-level updates/changes/additions among engineering designers, manufacturing engineers, product engineers at the vehicle plants, MWL commercial staff located globally, and product change coordinators at the plants.
  • L6 Subject Matter Expert for MWL current production product and processes
  • Collaborate and lead engineering system teams to develop improvements or attachments that meet customer and business needs.
  • Support Manufacturing facilities during production ramp-up and New Source Introductions.

What You Have (Basic Qualifications/Core Skills):
  • Degree requirement: Bachelor's degree in engineering.
  • Influencing Through Expertise: Proven ability to communicate effectively across global teams, using deep technical knowledge to build trust and drive alignment.
  • Project Management: Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional initiatives, with strong collaboration skills to coordinate efforts and deliver results.
  • Technical Excellence: Candidate must have strong analytical skills and can use various design software (Creo and Teamcenter or similar directly aligned software). Incumbent will develop and provide solutions for significant technical issues related to quality, velocity, and cost objectives.
  • Effective Communication: Strong communication skills, ability to manage multiple projects, and be a self-starter. Ability to build networks with people from different countries and cultures, think and work with them to bring positive impact and flourishing business results.

Top Candidates Will Also Have:
  • Experience in project design engineering & MWL product development.
  • Deep technical expertise with wheel loader machines and applications.
  • Concurrent development experience (with IF plants and/or PF suppliers) with multiple inputs from design, manufacturing, assembly, and product support.
  • Experience in MRP and demand/ordering, product support systems.
  • A strategic mindset with the ability to collaborate across multi-functional teams.
  • Clear communicator that can present to all levels of the organization.
  • Proven leadership and mediation skills and demonstrated capabilities with a focus on consensus building

Additional Information:
  • Office Model: This position requires the employee to work a 5-day-a-week schedule in the office.
  • Travel: 10% of domestic and international travel is expected.
  • Relocation: Domestic relocation will be available to those who qualify.
  • Visa Sponsorship: Not available.

Summary Pay Range:
$112,710.00 - $169,060.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
August 17, 2026 - August 31, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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