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Machine Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

R-V Industries, Inc.

Be Seen First

Mechanical Machine Design Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

The role of a Senior Mechanical Machine Design Engineer will be to take industrial automation projects from an initial kick-off meeting to working completion through all of the stages of design ...

Itape

Senior Machine Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Machine Design Engineer to develop custom automated packaging machinery including cartoners, case packers, palletizers, and related end-of-line equipment. In this ...

Whiting Corporation

Design Engineer

Crete, IL

$90K - $100K/yr

Creates detail machine design drawings, performs basic machine design calculations for part and component sizing and conformance to requirements. Works as part of a product machine design team whose ...

FurstStaffing

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

Design and launch innovative machines for working with sheet metal. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS · Performs SolidWorks based modeling/drafting for part and finish drawings; generate layouts. · Design and ...

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All JobsMachine Design JobsMachine Design Jobs in Illinois

Machine Design information

See Illinois salary details

$56.2K

$80.6K

$126.5K

How much do machine design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine design in Illinois is $80,600.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $88,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is machine design?

Machine design is the process of creating new machines or improving existing ones to meet specific needs or solve particular problems. It involves applying engineering principles to select materials, determine dimensions, and specify manufacturing methods for machine components. The process includes conceptualization, detailed design, analysis, testing, and documentation. Machine designers often use CAD software and simulation tools to visualize and test their designs before production. Their work is critical in industries ranging from automotive to manufacturing and robotics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Designer, you need strong skills in mechanical engineering, 3D modeling, and design principles, generally supported by a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and familiarity with manufacturing processes and material selection is essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and translating concepts into practical solutions. These skills ensure that machine designs are efficient, manufacturable, and meet both technical specifications and client needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in machine design roles, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in machine design often encounter challenges such as balancing cost constraints with performance requirements, meeting tight project deadlines, and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards. Effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, such as manufacturing, electrical, and quality assurance, is crucial to address these challenges. Staying updated with the latest CAD software, simulation tools, and engineering best practices can also help streamline the design process and improve outcomes.

What is the difference between Machine Design vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectMachine DesignMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field; certifications like Certified Professional Engineer (PE) beneficialBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; PE licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, office settingsDesign, testing labs, manufacturing plants, research facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on creating and improving specific machine components and systemsBroader scope including thermodynamics, materials, and system integration

Machine Design specializes in developing specific machine components and systems, often requiring detailed design skills. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of engineering principles, including thermodynamics, materials, and system analysis. While both roles share similar credentials and work environments, Machine Design is more focused on the detailed creation of machines, whereas Mechanical Engineering encompasses a broader engineering scope.

How do you become a machine design engineer?

To become a machine design engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software, and obtaining professional engineering licensure can enhance career prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Machine Design jobs in Illinois?

For Machine Design jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Machine Design jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Design jobs in Illinois are:

Machine Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Design 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 $80,600 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Machine Design Engineer

Aegis Manufacturing & Engineering

Carol Stream, IL • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Aegis is partnered with a privately owned custom machine builder that has been designing and manufacturing equipment for the plastics industry for over 40 years. The company designs and builds its machinery entirely in-house and is expanding its Mechanical Engineering team due to continued growth.

They are seeking a Machinery Design Engineer to own custom equipment designs from initial concept through a fully built and operating machine.

Responsibilities:

  • Design custom machinery using Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD 2D, and other CAD tools
  • Take mechanical designs from concept through fabrication, assembly, and completion
  • Size and specify motors, gearboxes, bearings, shafts, and other mechanical components
  • Perform calculations and simulations to validate designs
  • Create detailed drawings, blueprints, and technical documentation
  • Work directly with vendors to select and integrate components
  • Collaborate with production teams on the manufacturing floor throughout machine builds
  • Support design improvements focused on reliability and manufacturability

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 2+ years of custom machinery or capital equipment design experience; 3–5+ years preferred
  • Strong 3D CAD experience, ideally Autodesk Inventor
  • Experience designing machinery from concept through completion
  • Understanding of mechanical power transmission including motors, gearboxes, bearings, and shafts
  • Welding/fabrication design experience is a plus

This is a full-time, direct-hire opportunity working on-site in Carol Stream with a stable, growing custom machine builder.

You should be proficient in:

  • CAD Software
  • Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment
  • Mechanical Design & Engineering
  • Product Design Experience

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • CAD Software (AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor)