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Design Lab Assistant Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Works with senior engineering personnel, mechanical engineers, lab engineers, technical writer ... May visit suppliers to assist in resolving their production problems. Generates development and ...

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Design Lab Assistant information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do design lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for design lab assistant in Elgin, IL is $20.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Design Lab Assistant vs Design Intern?

AspectDesign Lab AssistantDesign Intern
CredentialsRelevant coursework, basic design skillsEnrolled in design or related degree program
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, studios, collaborative spacesDesign firms, studios, educational settings
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, research labs, design companiesDesign agencies, corporate teams, startups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding support roles in design labsGaining internship opportunities in design

Design Lab Assistants typically support design projects with basic skills and work in educational or research environments, while Design Interns are students gaining hands-on experience in professional design settings. Both roles involve collaboration and learning but differ mainly in experience level and purpose.

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

To thrive as a Design Lab Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of design principles, familiarity with lab protocols, and typically a degree or coursework in design or a related field. Proficiency with design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite or CAD programs), 3D printers, and other fabrication tools is often required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you manage projects and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualities are essential for supporting creative processes, ensuring safety, and maintaining efficient lab operations.

What are Design Lab Assistants?

Design Lab Assistants are support staff who help maintain and manage operations in design laboratories, such as those found in schools, universities, or creative studios. They assist students, faculty, or professionals by preparing materials, setting up equipment, ensuring lab safety, and sometimes providing technical guidance on design software or tools. Their role is essential for keeping the lab organized and facilitating a productive environment for creative work. Depending on the institution, they may also help with troubleshooting equipment and supporting design projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Design Lab Assistants, and how can they be successfully managed?

Design Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines, maintaining organized workspaces, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Successfully managing these challenges involves developing strong time-management skills, staying proactive with regular equipment maintenance, and communicating clearly with team members and supervisors about project priorities. Embracing a collaborative attitude and being open to feedback can also help Design Lab Assistants adapt quickly and contribute effectively to the creative process.
What are popular job titles related to Design Lab Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL? For Design Lab Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Lab Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Design Lab Assistant jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Design Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Design Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Lab Assistant job openings in Elgin, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,629 per year, or $20 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer

VIVA USA INC

Buffalo Grove, IL โ€ข On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Mechanical Design Engineers
Provides support of existing products, drives Cost Value Engineering efforts, and assists in the development of new mechatronic products. Designs and develops mechanical hardware and devices including controllers, sensors, actuators, enclosures, and accessories. Works with senior engineering personnel, mechanical engineers, lab engineers, technical writer, approvals manager, technicians, and others within the organization to coordinate development of designs. Assembles or directs the assembly of mechanical hardware and systems and other tasks. Use engineering and other software for project management, engineering, development (3D modelling), and report writing. Prepares rough copy of technical documentation to support product designs. Works with outside vendors to optimize design and obtain costing for production quantities and tooling. Assists field employees in trouble shooting product problems in field offices, distributors, or customer locations. May visit suppliers to assist in resolving their production problems. Generates development and product cost, schedule, and mechanical engineering specifications to support design teams. Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or another related field with a minimum of 3 years of related experience. Knowledge of manufacturing processes, assembly and fabrication for electro-mechanical devices and components. Good written language skills for generating progress reports and engineering specifications. Ability to use personal computers and software tools for design, working knowledge of client PLM software, ERP systems ( SAP) and TeamCenter are highly desirable.
What We Ask of You:
Use 3D modelling software to design new, modify existing components for mechatronic products.
Use engineering and other software for project management, engineering, development (mechanical layout, mechanical component details and mechanical illustrations), and report writing.
Prepares rough copy of technical documentation to support product designs.
Works with outside vendors to optimize design and obtain costing for production quantities and tooling.
Assists field employees in trouble shooting product problems in field offices, distributors or customer locations.
May visit suppliers and customers to assist in resolving their issues.
Generates development and product cost, schedule and mechanical engineering specifications to support design teams.
Required Knowledge/Skills, Education, and Experience
Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or other related field.
Knowledge of manufacturing processes, assembly and fabrication for electro-mechanical devices and components.
Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience.
Good written language skills for generating progress reports and engineering specifications.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to use personal computers and software tools for design, working knowledge of client PLM /ERP system such as SAP / TeamCenter is desirable.
Preferred Knowledge/Skills, Education, and Experience
BSME
Minimum of 3 years of related design experience using client software and TeamCenter tools
Experience in mechanical laboratory, other hands-on environments desirable
Notes:
Onsite
8:00 am to 4:00 pm
VIVA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants have an equal opportunity for placement, and all employees have an equal opportunity to develop on the job. This means that VIVA will not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.