Hardware Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

About Justrite Safety Group
At Justrite Safety Group, we're more than just a collection of industrial safety companies; we're a dynamic organization dedicated to protecting people, property, and the planet. Our ever-growing portfolio of companies collaborates to deliver advanced industrial safety solutions that set the standard for excellence.
As our business continues to grow, we continue to look for top talent to join our team as we lead the charge in revolutionizing industrial safety, ensuring that every worker returns home safe, every workplace remains secure, and our environment thrives for generations to come. With Justrite Safety Group, safety isn't just a priority-it's our passion.
The Contribution You'll bring to this Role:
The Design Engineer is responsible for the mechanical design, documentation, and design-to-manufacturing execution of fabricated sheet metal products and related accessories.
This role focuses on product performance, manufacturability, cost, and compliance for industrial hazardous material storage solutions. You will partner closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Product Management, Supply Chain, and Regulatory to support new product development (NPD) and sustaining engineering for the Safety Cabinet product line.
About the Team:
The Design Engineering team at Justrite Safety Group is dedicated to innovation, precision, and quality. Our engineers collaborate across departments to develop industry-leading solutions that meet the highest safety standards and customer needs. With a strong focus on creativity and problem-solving, the team brings ideas to life, from initial concept through to production. Each member plays a vital role in ensuring our products are not only functional and reliable but also adhere to regulatory requirements and sustainability goals. Together, we drive advancements in safety through cutting-edge designs and a commitment to excellence.
What You'll Do at Justrite:

• Design and develop fabricated sheet metal cabinet products and assemblies from concept through production release.
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, drawings, BOMs, and specifications; ensure accuracy and configuration control.
• Drive design-for-manufacture (DFM) improvements across sheet metal fabrication, welding, finishing, and assembly processes.
• Lead engineering change activities (ECR/ECO): implement product improvements, cost reductions, and issue resolution.
• Support compliance and certification requirements relevant to safety cabinets (e.g., flammable liquid storage applications); coordinate test plans and documentation as needed.
• Conduct engineering analysis to validate designs: tolerance stack-ups, fit/function, structural considerations, latch/door performance, ventilation/accessory integration, and durability.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to develop fixtures, work instructions, routings, and standard work to support safe, repeatable production.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal procurement to qualify components and materials; support should-cost, VA/VE, and alternate sourcing efforts.
• Investigate field and internal issues using structured problem solving (RCA, 5-Why, Fishbone); implement corrective/preventive actions with Quality.
• Contribute to technical support for Sales/Customer Service on product applications, special requests, and customer-driven configurations.

Key Responsibilities
Product Design and Documentation

• Generate complete manufacturing-ready documentation (drawings with GD&T, weld symbols, notes, finish specs, BOM accuracy).

• Define critical-to-quality characteristics and inspection requirements in partnership with Quality.

Fabrication and Process Collaboration

• Apply knowledge of sheet metal fabrication methods (laser/punch, bend, spot weld, MIG/TIG, clinch/fasteners, PEM hardware, hinges/latches).

• Support and improve processes including powder coat/paint, galvanizing, labeling, and final assembly.

NPD and Sustaining Execution

• Execute design activities within a phase-gate development process: requirements, concept, design reviews, prototype builds, verification/validation, release.

• Own sustaining engineering deliverables: product updates, cost-down initiatives, quality improvements, and end-of-life changes.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Communicate clearly with stakeholders; present designs in reviews; document decisions and manage action items.

• Balance priorities across multiple projects and urgent production/field support needs.

Your Skills and Expertise:
To ensure your success from day one in this role, Justrite requires the following qualifications at a minimum:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related discipline).

• 2-3 years of product design experience in manufactured goods; strong preference for fabricated metal products.

• Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred or equivalent) and 2D drawing creation.

• Working knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and documentation practices for production release.

• Experience collaborating with manufacturing teams on prototypes, pilot builds, and production support.

• Strong problem-solving skills and comfort working hands-on in a factory environment.

Additional qualifications that could help you succeed even further in this role include:

• 5+ years of experience designing sheet metal assemblies and welded fabrications.

• Experience with industrial safety, chemical storage, or regulated products; familiarity with relevant codes/standards is a plus.

• Exposure to ERP/PLM systems and formal engineering change workflows.

• Experience with DFMEA/PFMEA, control plans, and structured validation/testing.

• Lean / continuous improvement experience (Kaizen, standard work, waste reduction).

Compensation:
The position offers a competitive base salary ranging from $90,000 to $100,000.
Actual base salaries will vary and may be above or below the recommended pay range based on factors such as but not limited to location, relevant experience and performance. Additionally, this role is eligible for an annual incentive plan to enhance their overall total compensation package when Justrite Safety Group and their business units achieve annual business and financial targets.
Benefits:
Our benefits package at Justrite Safety Group is designed to be the best in the industry, offering everything you need to support your career and personal well-being. You'll receive a competitive salary paired with an extensive benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. We provide flexible hours and alternative work arrangements designed to support a healthy work-life balance. These options vary depending on the specific roles and business needs.
Your financial future is secure with our 401K plan, complete with a company match, and you're protected with company-paid short and long-term disability insurance. To ensure you're at your best, we also offer generous paid time off, personal days, and a robust employee wellness program that supports your overall health and happiness. At Justrite, our benefits package is designed to help you thrive both in and out of the workplace.
Why Choose Justrite Safety Group?
As a leading name in the safety industry, Justrite provides a platform where you can collaborate with some of the best professionals in the field, learning from experts and contributing to cutting-edge solutions. The company's commitment to excellence and innovation ensures that you'll be part of a team that is making a real impact. With a strong focus on career advancement, Justrite empowers its employees to thrive both personally and professionally, making it an ideal workplace for those looking to grow their careers in a meaningful and rewarding environment.
Join us and be part of a team dedicated to product excellence and making a positive impact in our company, and in our community!
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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