1

Electrical Systems Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

AV Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

AV SYSTEMS DESIGN ENGINEER *Employees must live within commutable distance to the city applied for* Company Overview: Extron is a leading developer and manufacturer of professional AV hardware and ...

As an Electrical Design Engineer 5, you will have the opportunity to: * With general direction ... Perform power system studies and electrical calculations, including lighting simulations and ...

Job Summary The Senior Design Engineer researches, designs, develops, and supports complex medical ... Lead the electrical and system level design of medical devices, including architecture definition ...

Job Summary The Senior Design Engineer researches, designs, develops, and supports complex medical ... Lead the electrical and system level design of medical devices, including architecture definition ...

Job Summary The Senior Design Engineer researches, designs, develops, and supports complex medical ... Lead the electrical and system level design of medical devices, including architecture definition ...

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer Location: Chicago, IL We are seeking a Design Engineer for our Next Generation Air/Ground Communications (NEXCOM) program to lead the systems engineering ...

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer Location: Chicago, IL We are seeking a Design Engineer for our Next Generation Air/Ground Communications (NEXCOM) program to lead the systems engineering ...

Electrical Design Engineer We are seeking an Electrical Designer with expertise in control panel ... Troubleshoot and resolve design issues related to electrical systems. Essential Skills

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer Location: Chicago, IL We are seeking a Design Engineer for our Next Generation Air/Ground Communications (NEXCOM) program to lead the systems engineering ...

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer Location: Chicago, IL We are seeking a Design Engineer for our Next Generation Air/Ground Communications (NEXCOM) program to lead the systems engineering ...

Do you love designing and implementing complex electrical systems? Are you looking for a company ... Provide value engineering reviews and alternate design options in order to maximize cost savings ...

Electrical Engineer

Palatine, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/hr

Electrical Engineer Client: Architecture and Engineering Firm Duration: Full-Time (Permanent ... Design electrical systems including: * Power distribution * Lighting & lighting controls * Fire ...

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer Location: Chicago, IL We are seeking a Design Engineer for our Next Generation Air/Ground Communications (NEXCOM) program to lead the systems engineering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Electrical Systems Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33

$53

$90

How much do electrical systems design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrical systems design engineer in Chicago, IL is $53.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.15 and $61.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Electrical Systems Design Engineer do?

An Electrical Systems Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components for various applications, such as buildings, vehicles, or industrial equipment. Their work involves creating detailed schematics, selecting appropriate materials, and ensuring systems comply with safety and industry standards. They often collaborate with other engineers, architects, and project managers to integrate electrical systems seamlessly into larger projects. Additionally, they may troubleshoot issues, optimize system performance, and support installation and maintenance activities.

What is the difference between Electrical Systems Design Engineer vs Electrical Project Engineer?

AspectElectrical Systems Design EngineerElectrical Project Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PMP certification beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, project planningConstruction sites, project management offices
Industry UsageDesigning electrical systems for buildings, infrastructureOverseeing electrical installation projects, ensuring compliance
Common Search/ComparisonFocuses on design and development of electrical systemsFocuses on managing electrical project execution

The Electrical Systems Design Engineer primarily focuses on designing electrical systems, ensuring technical accuracy and compliance. In contrast, the Electrical Project Engineer manages the execution of electrical projects on-site, coordinating teams and resources. Both roles require electrical engineering credentials but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electrical Systems Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electrical Systems Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and systems integration, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or Altium), simulation tools, and relevant industry standards or certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and ensuring project requirements are met. These skills are essential for creating safe, efficient, and innovative electrical systems that meet client specifications and comply with regulatory standards.

How does an Electrical Systems Design Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Electrical Systems Design Engineers regularly work alongside mechanical, civil, and software engineers to ensure that electrical systems are seamlessly integrated within larger projects. This collaboration often involves participating in interdisciplinary meetings, reviewing design documents, and coordinating interface requirements. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as changes in one engineering domain can significantly impact the electrical design, requiring prompt adjustments and joint problem-solving.
What job categories do people searching Electrical Systems Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Electrical Systems Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Electrical Systems Design Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,068 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
Systems Design Engineer

Systems Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$87K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 357 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SAPTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

We are seeking capable, talented, and motivated team-contributors at our Northrop Grumman Rolling Meadows site. Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. These systems are designed, developed, built, integrated, and tested by the capable folks at our company to protect the lives of US and Allied warfighters in present and future conflicts. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today. If you are interested in being considered for inclusion on this team, we invite you to apply.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) is seeking a Systems Design Engineer to join our team. Systems Design Engineers coordinate across disciplines to ensure the system requirements and design are properly and thoroughly defined and captured. Tasking can include working with subject matter experts to decompose requirements, supporting trade studies of technical challenges, and guiding system design decision-making. System Design Engineers use Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods and tools, generate and update specifications and Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRM) in DOORS.

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.

This position may be contingent upon Funding/Contract award, special access program and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.

Basic Qualifications for Systems Design Engineer:

  • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a STEM field with 2 years of related experience; OR MS degree in STEM field or PhD in STEM with 0 years of related experience
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Experience in creating and delivering technical presentations
  • Working knowledge of DOORS and/or Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods and tools such as Cameo or similar tools
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance

Preferred Qualifications Systems Design Engineer :

  • Experience working as part of an Agile team and maintaining awareness of cost and schedule constraints
  • Experience decomposing requirements for DoD-based platforms or systems
  • Working knowledge from one or more of the following specialty areas: EOIR systems, sensors, optics, antenna design, direction finding, geolocation, threat analysis
  • Handson experience with MATLAB/Python
  • Proficiency with RFCAD suites such as ANSYS HFSS, CST Microwave Studio, or Keysight ADS
  • Advanced knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) techniques, Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms, and FPGAbased RF prototyping
  • Demonstrated expertise in SysML modeling and MBSE tools (e.g., IBMRationalDOORS, EnterpriseArchitect, Cameo). Ability to develop and maintain system models, traceability matrices, and verification crossreference artifacts
  • Handson experience applying AI/ML to RF classification, spectrum analysis, or adaptive beamforming
  • Experience supporting DoD programs during EMD and/or LRIP phases
  • Experience working collaboratively on complex projects that encompass both hardware, software, and firmware
  • Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance
Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939