Entry Level Design Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Summary:
iCONN Systems, LLC is a manufacturer of connectors, cable assemblies, and value-added turnkey products with facilities in North America and Southeast Asia serving global markets. Our management team has extensive connector and cable assembly experience—over 100 years combined—to the benefit of our customers. iCONN focuses on engineered solutions that provide high-quality, cost-effective designs for specific applications, backed by superior customer service.

Location: Lombard, Illinois

Department: Engineering

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Engineering Manager

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Design Engineer I is an entry-level engineering role and the foundation of iCONN’s technical talent pipeline. In this position you will support the engineering team in documenting, maintaining, and improving connector and cable assembly products using SolidWorks CAD. You will work alongside experienced engineers on both day-to-day drawing maintenance and new product development projects, building the skills and product knowledge needed to grow into full design ownership.

This is a hands-on, learning-forward role. We are looking for someone who is detail-oriented, curious about how things are made, and motivated to develop into a senior-level contributor over time.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Execute Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) end-to-end, including drawing updates, revision control, and cross-functional coordination.

• Create and maintain detail manufacturing and sales drawings for new and existing products using SolidWorks.

• Develop 3D models and assemblies in SolidWorks to support product modifications and new releases.

• Collaborate with manufacturing and quality teams to incorporate Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback into drawings.

• Participate in design reviews, contributing questions and ideas as product knowledge grows.

• Assist senior engineers with new product development projects from concept through production release.

• Build familiarity with connector standards, geometric tolerancing, material specifications, and iCONN’s product catalog.

• Use measuring tools (calipers, micrometers) accurately to support drawing validation and inspection activities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 0–2 years of experience creating detail component and assembly drawings; coursework or internship experience accepted.

• Proficiency or coursework in SolidWorks or a comparable 3D CAD platform.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and apply basic GD&T concepts.

• Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to documentation.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Ability to use precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Machine shop, CNC, or manufacturing environment experience.

• Exposure to connector, cable assembly, or electromechanical component design.

• Familiarity with ERP or PDM systems.

• Understanding of overmolding, stamping, or injection molding processes.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Drafting & Design, or a related engineering field preferred.

• Equivalent combination of formal training and demonstrated hands-on CAD experience will be considered.

• New graduates are encouraged to apply.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work is primarily office/desk-based (CAD workstation environment).

• Periodic visits to the production floor require standing and walking on hard surfaces.

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.

• Visual acuity sufficient to inspect small components and review detailed engineering drawings.

GROWTH & CAREER PATH

iCONN invests in developing engineering talent from within. High performers in the Design Engineer I role are supported in building toward the following progression:

• Design Engineer II — Design Engineer II

Take ownership of individual product lines, lead ECN projects independently, and support customer-facing technical inquiries. Typically achieved within 1–2 years.

• Senior Design Engineer — Senior Design Engineer

Lead new product development projects from concept through production, mentor junior team members, and interface directly with customers and suppliers on technical matters. Typically achieved within 3–5 years.

Summary of Benefits:

• Retirement Savings Plan. 401K Plan

• Paid Time Off. Vacation, Paid Leave for all Workers, Short Term Disability.

• Medical Coverage. You will have the option to participate in iCONN’s medical insurance program. A section 125 flexible spending program is available.

• Dental Insurance.

• Vision Insurance.

• Life Insurance. At no cost to you, the Company provides a benefit equal to two times your base salary.

• Long-Term Disability - At no cost to you, the company provides income protection in the event of a personal disability.

Salary Range:

$ 50, 000 to $ 65,000 based on experience

At iCONN Systems we value innovation, precision, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Join our team and contribute to our mission of delivering exceptional quality products to our clients.
 

iCONN Systems, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer • The Standard in Interconnect Solutions