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Junior Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Jr. ASIC Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

We are looking for a Junior ASIC Design Engineer to lead and contribute to research activities and engineering work focused on developing custom instrumentation for extreme radiation and/or cryogenic ...

Design Engineer

Westmont, IL · On-site

$82K - $124K/yr

Mentor junior engineers and review work from designers and outside consultants * Develop or improve ... Design & Innovation * Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving * Project Management * Professional ...

Design Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$38 - $51/hr

We are looking for an experienced Civil Design Engineer II to join our dynamic team and take a ... Oversee and review the work of junior engineers and designers to ensure accuracy and quality.

Design Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$38 - $51/hr

Oversee and review the work of junior engineers and designers to ensure accuracy and quality ... Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D or similar design software. * Strong understanding of civil ...

Design Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$38 - $51/hr

Oversee and review the work of junior engineers and designers to ensure accuracy and quality ... Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D or similar design software. * Strong understanding of civil ...

SR Design Engineer

Wheaton, IL · On-site +1

$135K - $160K/yr

Title: Senior Design Engineer - Electric Distribution Location: Remote/Wheaton, IL Hire Type ... Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering standards, best practices, and technical ...

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote ... You'll work directly with multi-disciplinary teams, lead technical execution, mentor junior staff ...

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote ... You'll work directly with multi-disciplinary teams, lead technical execution, mentor junior staff ...

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Flexible Schedule, Partial Remote ... You'll work directly with multi-disciplinary teams, lead technical execution, mentor junior staff ...

Design Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site +1

$72K - $95K/yr

PRODUCT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT * * Serve as the technical liaison with the customer. Clearly define ... Coach and train junior engineers, application engineers, and other engineering team members to help ...

Design Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$72K - $95K/yr

PRODUCT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT * * Serve as the technical liaison with the customer. Clearly define ... Coach and train junior engineers, application engineers, and other engineering team members to help ...

Design Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site +1

$72K - $95K/yr

PRODUCT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT * * Serve as the technical liaison with the customer. Clearly define ... Coach and train junior engineers, application engineers, and other engineering team members to help ...

Design Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site +1

$72K - $95K/yr

PRODUCT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT * * Serve as the technical liaison with the customer. Clearly define ... Coach and train junior engineers, application engineers, and other engineering team members to help ...

The Senior Tool Design Engineer is also responsible for mentoring junior engineers, providing training to machine operators, and playing an instrumental role in solving complex tooling challenges.

The Senior Tool Design Engineer is also responsible for mentoring junior engineers, providing training to machine operators, and playing an instrumental role in solving complex tooling challenges.

Senior Design Engineer

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Will Group is seeking a Senior Design Engineer - Electrical Distribution to help lead utility ... junior engineers and contribute to engineering best practices • Help drive successful project ...

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Showing results 1-20

Junior Design Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$32.5K

$69.6K

$106.1K

How much do junior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior design engineer in Illinois is $69,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Junior Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset help you excel in team settings and adapt to project needs. These skills ensure accurate design work, efficient project collaboration, and successful development of innovative engineering solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by junior design engineers during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to company-specific design processes, managing multiple project deadlines, and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Building strong communication with senior engineers and actively seeking feedback can help address these hurdles. Participating in team meetings and collaborating closely with other departments, such as manufacturing or quality assurance, also enhances understanding and ensures smoother project execution. Embracing continuous learning and leveraging available training resources will further boost confidence and technical growth in the role.

What is the difference between Junior Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectJunior Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships or entry-level certificationsBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering; professional certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDesign departments, R&D labs, manufacturing industries
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in engineering firms, manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceMid to senior-level roles in similar industries, often with more project responsibility

The main difference is that a Junior Design Engineer is an entry-level position focusing on learning and supporting design tasks, while a Mechanical Design Engineer typically has more experience and responsibility in designing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Mechanical Design Engineer usually has more advanced skills and project ownership.

Are junior design engineers well paid?

Junior design engineers typically earn entry-level salaries that vary by industry and location but generally range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Compensation can increase with experience, additional skills such as CAD proficiency, and relevant certifications. Entry-level roles often include opportunities for professional development and skill-building in design software and engineering principles.

What is the role of a junior design engineer?

A junior design engineer assists in developing and modifying engineering designs, often using CAD software, under the supervision of senior engineers. They support project planning, perform calculations, and help ensure designs meet specifications and standards. This role typically requires basic engineering knowledge, attention to detail, and good communication skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Junior Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Junior Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Design Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,575 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Electrical Design Engineer II/III (MEP)

Interface Engineering

Chicago, IL • On-site

$72K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Join a People-First, Employee-Owned Firm That's Redefining Flexibility and Growth
Electrical Design Engineer II/III (MEP) - Chicago, IL (Hybrid)
Interface Engineering Inc.
At Interface Engineering, we believe your career should be as dynamic and rewarding as the projects you support. As a 100% employee-owned firm, we're proud to offer our Collaboration from Home policy-giving you the flexibility of a hybrid schedule (2 days/week in-office) while staying connected to a team that values innovation, inclusion, and impact.
Why Interface?
We're not just engineers-we're collaborators, mentors, and trailblazers in high-performance design. Our Pathway to Leadership program offers a transparent, personalized roadmap for career advancement, empowering you to grow in the direction that excites you most.
Our Culture
Interface has the company culture and work environment you have been seeking! You'll find a workplace with a culture of fun, superior work/life balance benefits, expansive personal development opportunities, cutting-edge technology, and great relationships. You'll work alongside MEP industry leaders who will help you develop your own thriving career path. Our work takes us around the globe and on a steady growth curve. Our success and innovation are powered by people like you!
Our Core Values:
The following Core Values capture the essence of who we are. We live and breathe them, and they inform everything we do.
  • We are Conscientious
  • We are Empowered
  • We are Respectful
  • We are Transformative
  • We are Resilient

Key Responsibilities:
As an Electrical Design Engineer II/III at Interface, you will be taking ownership as a discipline expert on multiple projects. Your duties will include (but may not be limited to):
  • Innovative and complex electrical system design
  • Document delivery coordination
  • Meeting and consulting with clients
  • Providing guidance to junior design staff
  • Providing exemplary customer service to internal team members and clients
  • Supporting overall project management to our MEP team leaders

What You'll Bring:
Required:
  • BS, Electrical Engineering
  • 2+ years' MEP design and consulting experience
  • Intermediate to advanced knowledge of electrical building codes and standards
  • Ability to perform multiple functions in multi-deadline changing operations
  • Ability to work effectively within a team-oriented, collaborative environment

Preferred:
  • A Professional Engineering License
  • LEED Accreditation
  • Working IES-VE knowledge

What You'll Love
  • Competitive Pay: $72,046 to $109,864 annual salary and conditional bonus
  • Employee Ownership: Build equity through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Robust Benefits: 401(k), medical/dental/vision, life & disability insurance, transportation benefits...and more!
  • Generous Time Off: PTO, paid holidays, and company closure to clients from Christmas to New Year's
  • Purpose-Driven Culture: Paid volunteer time and a commitment to social equity
  • Career Development: Work alongside industry leaders and access continuous learning opportunities

Ready to grow with us?
If you're looking for a role where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your work makes a difference-apply today and become part of the Interface Engineering family.
Social Equity:
Interface is committed to social equity within our walls and in our communities. We are a diverse, inclusive, and responsible firm. Interface provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable federal or state-protected classifications. We support local business and seek to partner with small and minority-owned firms on our projects. Our staff is empowered to design community service programs (e.g., clean up beaches, serve meals at shelters, tutor school-aged children, etc.) - using paid volunteer time.
Please note: H1-B visa sponsorship or transfer is not approved for this position.
#LI-EJ1
Pay Range: $72,046 - $109,864 per year