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Design Manager Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Design Engineering

Huntley, IL ยท On-site

$140 - $160/hr

## Manager, Design EngineeringApplyremote type: Onsitelocations: Huntley, IL, USAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 9 Days Agojob requisition id: JR-200336TOPPAN Packaging Americas specializes in ...

Manager, Design Engineering

Huntley, IL ยท On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Reporting to the Vice President/General Manager , this role is responsible for leading and managing the Design Engineering function supporting thermoformed medical packaging solutions. The position ...

Manager, Design Engineering

Huntley, IL ยท On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Director of Design Engineering - Medical Thermoformed Packaging Position Summary Reporting to the Vice President/General Manager, the Director of Design Engineering provides strategic and operational ...

Manager, Design Engineering

Huntley, IL ยท On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Reporting to the Vice President/General Manager , this role is responsible for leading and managing the Design Engineering function supporting thermoformed medical packaging solutions. The position ...

Design Engineer

Huntley, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Maintain accurate design documentation and manage revisions through PDM/PLM systems. * Stay current with materials, sterilization methods (EtO, gamma, e-beam), design trends, and technologies ...

Design Engineer

Huntley, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Maintain accurate design documentation and manage revisions through PDM/PLM systems. * Stay current with materials, sterilization methods (EtO, gamma, e-beam), design trends, and technologies ...

Maintain accurate design documentation and manage revisions using PDM/PLM systems. Stay current on emerging materials, sterilization methods (EtO, gamma, e-beam), and trends in medical packaging ...

Maintain accurate design documentation and manage revisions using PDM/PLM systems. Stay current on emerging materials, sterilization methods (EtO, gamma, e-beam), and trends in medical packaging ...

In addition to the Design group, the candidate will also interface closely with members of our ... task management, including organizational and time management skills Familiarity with basic ...

Manage multiple design projects simultaneously while meeting customer deadlines * Coordinate engineering clarifications and design revisions with customers and internal teams * Coordinate closely ...

The automotive markets Holman serves include fleet management and leasing; vehicle fabrication and ... Core Design & Specification Responsibilities * Develop and complete accurate, and up-to-date ...

Manage multiple design projects simultaneously while meeting customer deadlines * Coordinate engineering clarifications and design revisions with customers and internal teams * Coordinate closely ...

Design Director

Aurora, IL ยท On-site +1

Design and Manage Clients and team * Mentor and Direct Junior Talent * Work with Account Team to deliver work on time and on budget * Invest in the creative process Fit *Easy going Direct personality

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Design Manager information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$41.2K

$112.4K

$197.8K

How much do design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for design manager in DeKalb, IL is $112,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $141,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design manager?

Design Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design process within a project or organization. They coordinate and lead design teams, ensure design objectives align with business goals, and manage timelines, budgets, and resources. Design Managers often act as a bridge between creative teams and other departments, facilitating communication and ensuring that the final product meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. Their role can span across industries such as architecture, graphic design, product design, and digital media.

What does a design manager do?

A design manager oversees a design team during a project and typically works in the construction and architecture industries. As a design manager, you may work for specialty companies that contract out to construction firms on a per-project basis. Or, you may spend your career working as an in-house design manager for a construction company or architect firm. Regardless of the location of your job as a design manager, your duties revolve around supervising the design of a building project and include adhering to legislation and codes, eliminating safety and financial risks, and advising clients during development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design manager?

To thrive as a Design Manager, you need a strong background in design principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a degree in design or a related field and several years of design experience. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools like Asana or Trello is essential. Exceptional communication, team leadership, and problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively leading creative teams, delivering high-quality design outcomes, and meeting client or organizational goals.

How does a design manager typically balance creative vision with project deadlines and client expectations?

A Design Manager is responsible for guiding their team's creative direction while ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. This often means carefully prioritizing tasks, setting clear milestones, and communicating regularly with clients and stakeholders to manage expectations. They serve as a bridge between creative teams and project managers, helping to resolve conflicts and maintain a productive workflow. By fostering open collaboration and providing constructive feedback, Design Managers help ensure both the creative vision and practical project requirements are met.

What is the difference between Design Manager vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign ManagerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, management experienceBachelor's degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, oversees projectsCreates visual content, works independently or in teams
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, agency, and studio settingsCommon in advertising, publishing, branding

The main difference between a Design Manager and a Graphic Designer lies in their responsibilities and scope. Design Managers oversee design teams and strategic project planning, while Graphic Designers focus on creating visual content. Both roles require relevant design credentials, but Design Managers also need leadership experience. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What degree do you need to be a design manager?

A design manager typically holds a bachelor's degree in design, graphic design, industrial design, or a related field. Many also pursue a master's degree or additional certifications to enhance their skills and qualifications for leadership roles in design teams.

What does a design manager earn?

A design manager's salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. They often oversee design teams, coordinate projects, and use tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software, with higher salaries generally associated with larger companies or senior roles.

What is the highest paying career in design?

In design, executive roles such as Creative Director or Design Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially in large corporations or agencies. Specialized fields like UX/UI design, product design, and design consulting can also offer high compensation, particularly with extensive experience and advanced skills in tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch.

What are popular job titles related to Design Manager jobs in DeKalb, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Design Manager jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Manager jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Design Manager jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Design Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Manager job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,372 per year, or $54 per hour.

Manager, Design Engineering

Huntleyfirst

Huntley, IL โ€ข On-site

$140 - $160/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

## Manager, Design EngineeringApplyremote type: Onsitelocations: Huntley, IL, USAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 9 Days Agojob requisition id: JR-200336TOPPAN 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:**Reporting to the **Vice President/General Manager**, this role is responsible for leading and managing the Design Engineering function supporting thermoformed medical packaging solutions. The position integrates engineering design resources into a cohesive, high-performing team focused on **product development, package design, tooling, and commercialization execution**.This leader will drive innovation, ensure regulatory-conscious design practices, and deliver **speed-to-market, cost-effective, and customer-centric packaging solutions** that meet the stringent requirements of the medical device and healthcare industries.**What youโ€™ll be doing:****Team Leadership & Organizational Development*** Build, lead, and develop a **high-performance Design Engineering team** specializing in thermoformed medical packaging.* Create a clear **vision and strategic roadmap** for the evolution of the department aligned with business growth objectives.* Foster a **safe, compliant, and inclusive work environment**, ensuring adherence to all safety and quality standards.* Lead talent development through **coaching, performance management, training, and succession planning**.* Promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing across locations and cross-functional teams.**Product Development & Design Engineering*** Lead the **end-to-end design and development** of thermoformed medical packaging solutions, including trays, blisters, and related components.* Drive **innovative packaging concepts** while optimizing existing designs for manufacturability, cost, and performance.* Oversee design execution using **CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks)** and other engineering technologies.* Provide expertise in concept development through **3D modeling, renderings, and prototyping**. **Reverse engineering and 3D scanning*** Ensure designs meet **regulatory, sterilization, and material compatibility requirements** for medical applications.**Tooling & Vendor Management*** Manage **tooling development process**, including mold design and thermoforming tooling suppliers.* Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to accelerate development timelines and resolve technical issues.**New Business Commercialization*** Lead the transformation of the team toward a **project managementโ€“driven organization**, enabling effective execution of new product commercialization.* Partner with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Sales & Marketing, Regulatory, and Supply Chain) to ensure **seamless project execution**.* Translate customer and market requirements into **technical solutions and actionable development plans**.**Operational & Technical Excellence*** Drive continuous improvement in **design processes, systems, and interdepartmental communication**.* Maintain responsibility for departmental **equipment, software, and technical capabilities**, recommending upgrades as needed.* Stay current on **thermoforming technologies, materials innovation, and medical packaging trends**.* Oversee engineering documentation, **change control processes, and design standards compliance**.* Optimize resource allocation to balance **speed, cost, and quality objectives**.* Facilitate and drive Toppan's Global Performance System (GPS) in the design engineering area**This is an onsite position located out of Huntley, IL Facility****Weโ€™d love to hear from you if:*** Bachelorโ€™s degree in **Engineering, Packaging Science, or Industrial Design**.* Minimum **5+ years of experience** in thermoforming or closely related plastics manufacturing environments.* Strong experience in: + **Medical packaging design and development** + **Thermoforming processes and tooling** + **Project management and new product commercialization*** Regulatory familiarity (ISO 13485, validation, cleanroom familiarity)* Customer-facing project management (direct OEM interaction, design reviews)* Proficiency with **CAD and design tools** (e.g., SolidWorks).* Working knowledge of **medical packaging requirements** (sterilization methods, barrier systems, validation expectations) preferred.**Compensation:**The annual base salary range for this role is from $140,000 to $160,000An annual bonus is awarded to eligible employees upon attaining various business and individual goals as defined by the Company and the department leader. This annual bonus is discretionary, and the Company has sole discretion to determine the amount of the award.**At TOPPAN Packaging Americas,** We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support our employeesโ€™ 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 reimbursementWe 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr