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Engineer Jobs in Northbrook, IL (NOW HIRING)

Substation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

Substation Engineer KDM Engineering is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Substation Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will support the engineering, design, and implementation ...

SR Design Engineer

Wheaton, IL · On-site +1

$135K - $160K/yr

Senior Design Engineer - Electric Distribution Location: Remote/Wheaton, IL Hire Type: Direct Hire Salary: $135K-$160K/YR Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k) with company match ...

Resident Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$102K - $130K/yr

RESIDENT ENGINEER Lead the Future of Infrastructure with CKL Engineers Are you ready to take your career to the next level as a leader in construction management? CKL Engineers, LLC is seeking a ...

Resident Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$102K - $130K/yr

RESIDENT ENGINEER Lead the Future of Infrastructure with CKL Engineers Are you ready to take your career to the next level as a leader in construction management? CKL Engineers, LLC is seeking a ...

Resident Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$102K - $130K/yr

RESIDENT ENGINEER Lead the Future of Infrastructure with CKL Engineers Are you ready to take your career to the next level as a leader in construction management? CKL Engineers, LLC is seeking a ...

Resident Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$102K - $130K/yr

RESIDENT ENGINEER Lead the Future of Infrastructure with CKL Engineers Are you ready to take your career to the next level as a leader in construction management? CKL Engineers, LLC is seeking a ...

Showing results 41-60

Engineer information

See Northbrook, IL salary details

$39.6K

$103.3K

$139.6K

How much do engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer in Northbrook, IL is $103,278.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,300.00 and $118,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an engineer?

Engineers design, build, and maintain the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. Their specific job description relates to all of the detailed tasks, responsibilities, skills, and education requirements that a company or organization requires for their engineering specialty. For example, electrical engineers develop, monitor, and test electrical systems. Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Many engineers begin their career with an internship or apprenticeship while they are still in school, and then acquire an entry-level position. As they learn more about the industry, engineers are given their own projects and more responsibility.

What kind of jobs do engineers do?

Engineers design, develop, and test systems, structures, or products across various fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, software, and chemical engineering. They often work in offices, labs, or construction sites, using technical skills, problem-solving, and tools like CAD software or testing equipment. Many engineering roles require relevant certifications and a strong understanding of mathematics and science.

How do engineers typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Engineers often work closely with professionals from various departments such as product management, design, and quality assurance to ensure project requirements are met. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to align on goals, discuss technical constraints, and review progress. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as engineers may need to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical colleagues and incorporate feedback from different stakeholders. This cross-functional approach helps ensure that projects are delivered efficiently and meet all necessary standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineer?

To thrive as an Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, problem-solving, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with industry-specific software such as CAD tools, simulation platforms, and, in some fields, certifications like FE or PE is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills set exceptional engineers apart. These abilities ensure effective project delivery, innovative solutions, and smooth collaboration in technical environments.

What does an engineer do?

An engineer applies principles of science and mathematics to develop solutions for technical problems. They design, build, and test products, systems, or structures while considering efficiency, safety, and cost. Engineers can work in a variety of fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, each with its own specialized focus. Their work often involves teamwork, problem-solving, and the use of advanced technology.

What is the difference between Engineer vs Technician?

AspectEngineerTechnician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, analysis, project managementInstallation, maintenance, troubleshooting
Industry UsageDesign firms, manufacturing, constructionField service, manufacturing plants, maintenance teams
Common Search/ComparisonEngineer vs Technician

Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on designing, analyzing, and managing projects. Technicians usually have technical diplomas and handle hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. While engineers plan and oversee, technicians implement and support. Both roles are essential in engineering projects, but they differ in education, responsibilities, and work environment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities near Northbrook, IL are hiring for Engineer jobs?

Cities near Northbrook, IL with the most Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Engineer job openings in Northbrook, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,278 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Principal Structural Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL • On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer to provide technical leadership on complex industrial, power, manufacturing, and process facility projects. This role is ideal for an accomplished structural engineering professional who enjoys solving challenging engineering problems, mentoring high-performing teams, and partnering directly with clients to deliver innovative, practical solutions.

As a Principal Structural Engineer, you'll play a key role in project execution, business development, technical excellence, and the continued growth of our Structural Engineering practice.

What You Will Do
Technical Leadership
  • Lead the structural engineering design of complex industrial, manufacturing, process, and power generation facilities.
  • Independently develop structural designs from concept through construction.
  • Design steel, reinforced concrete, masonry, and foundation systems for a wide variety of industrial applications.
  • Design shallow and deep foundations, underground concrete vaults, tunnels, pipe supports, pipe racks, equipment foundations, access platforms, support towers, stair systems, ladders, and structural framing systems.
  • Develop innovative structural solutions for complex field conditions and retrofit projects.
  • Perform structural evaluations and condition assessments of existing facilities.
Engineering & Analysis
  • Perform advanced structural analysis using industry-standard software including RISA-3D and STAAD.Pro.
  • Interpret and apply domestic and international structural design codes and standards.
  • Review structural calculations, construction documents, specifications, and design deliverables.
  • Review reinforcement detailing, structural steel fabrication drawings, and vendor submittals.
Project Leadership
  • Serve as the Structural Discipline Lead on multidisciplinary engineering projects.
  • Develop engineering budgets, schedules, staffing plans, and work-hour estimates.
  • Manage project resources while maintaining quality, schedule, and budget expectations.
  • Coordinate closely with civil, mechanical, electrical, piping, and process engineering teams.
Client & Business Development
  • Collaborate with clients during project planning, scope development, and proposal preparation.
  • Build and maintain trusted client relationships through technical excellence and responsive communication.
  • Support business development initiatives and strategic growth opportunities.
Mentorship
  • Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performance engineering culture focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence.
Field Support
  • Perform site visits to verify existing conditions and support construction activities.
  • Assist with resolving field engineering challenges and constructability issues.
  • Travel for short- and long-term field assignments as project needs require.
What You'll Bring
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Architecture (Master's preferred)
  • 15+ years of structural engineering experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, process, or power generation projects
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE) license required
  • Demonstrated experience leading structural engineering projects and multidisciplinary teams
  • Advanced knowledge of structural steel, reinforced concrete, foundations, and industrial structures
  • Strong proficiency with RISA-3D, STAAD.Pro, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office
  • Experience preparing structural assessment and evaluation reports
  • Strong understanding of engineering codes, standards, and industry best practices
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and client relationship skills
  • Exceptional organizational and project management abilities
  • Authorization to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship
Why Valdes?

At Valdes Architecture & Engineering, you'll join a multidisciplinary team that designs the infrastructure powering industries and communities across the country.

Our engineers work on challenging projects in:

  • Industrial Manufacturing
  • Power Generation & Energy
  • Chemical Processing
  • Oil & Gas
  • Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals
  • Utilities
  • Infrastructure & Heavy Industrial Facilities

We believe great engineering starts with great people. Our collaborative culture empowers employees to innovate, lead, mentor, and continue growing throughout their careers.

Why You Will Love This Role
  • Lead technically challenging, high-impact structural engineering projects
  • Collaborate with nationally recognized multidisciplinary engineering teams
  • Mentor the next generation of structural engineers
  • Influence project strategy and business growth
  • Hybrid work environment
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
  • Opportunity to shape the future of Valdes' Structural Engineering practice
$125,000 - $200,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Valdes Architecture & Engineering Company is looking for bright and talented people that want to take their career to the next level. We offer many rewarding career paths to challenge and engage our employees at all phases of their careers. Our office provides a team environment, and excellent working conditions, which allow individuals to maximize their potential. Valdes Architecture & Engineering offers an outstanding benefits package including Medical, Dental, 401K plan, Company paid Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance, Pet Insurance, a discounted gym membership and tuition reimbursement.
EEO/AAE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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