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Machine Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer

Crete, IL · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Design Engineer

Crete, IL · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Design Engineer

Monee, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will have experience in machine design, project management, customer support, and heavy equipment applications. Job Duties : * Develop estimates and technical proposals for ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

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 ...

Mechanical Engineer

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

E with a minimum of three years work experience in machine design/automation. The ideal candidate will have experience/proficiency in 3D solid modeling preferably Solid Works. Experience with ...

Mechanical Engineer

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

E with a minimum of three years work experience in machine design/automation. The ideal candidate will have experience/proficiency in 3D solid modeling preferably Solid Works. Experience with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Machine Design information

See Illinois salary details

$56.2K

$80.6K

$126.5K

How much do machine design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 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.

How to become a machine designer?

To become a machine designer, typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field is required. Developing skills in CAD software, understanding mechanical systems, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions are essential steps. Professional certifications can also enhance job prospects in this field.

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.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Machine Design jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Machine Design jobs in Illinois 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:

Infographic showing various Machine Design job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,600 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Senior Machine Design Engineer

Intertape Polymer Group (IPG)

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Intertape Polymer Group rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Join the IPG Team!
Are you ready to elevate your career? At IPG, we are more than just a global leader in packaging and protective solutions-we are a community that values safety, people, passion, integrity, performance, and teamwork. From tapes and films to packaging and protective products, as well as engineered coated materials and advanced packaging machinery, we develop innovative solutions that protect the world. Now, we are expanding our global team and looking for talented individuals like you!
Position Description
Title: Senior Machine Design Engineer
Department: Engineering
Immediate Supervisor: Engineering Manager
Status: Exempt Salaried
Position Purpose: 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 role, you will take customer projects from an approved machine concept through detailed design and release for manufacturing. Projects range from modifications of proven machine platforms to completely new machine concepts requiring original engineering solutions. The successful candidate will be a highly capable machine designer who can work independently, make sound engineering decisions, manage multiple priorities, and deliver complete machine designs on aggressive schedules.
Work Environment
Our projects typically range from $500,000 to $2.5 million, move quickly, and involve the design and delivery of highly customized automated machinery. Engineers in this role are entrusted with significant ownership and responsibility and expected to do what is necessary to meet commitments.. The successful candidate thrives in a fast-paced, project-driven environment, enjoys solving complex engineering challenges, and is comfortable adapting to evolving priorities and schedules. Our project timelines are measured in weeks, not months.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Design and Development
  • Develop detailed mechanical designs for custom packaging machinery and automation systems.
  • Create and validate machine concepts through timing studies, motion analysis, and engineering calculations.
  • Design complete machine assemblies and mechanisms using 3D CAD software.
  • Generate production-ready 2D fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, and bills of material.
  • Ensure designs are manufacturable, serviceable, reliable, and cost-effective.
  • Review and improve existing machine designs for performance, cost, and ease of manufacture.

Project Execution
  • Own engineering execution for assigned projects from concept through release.
  • Deliver complete drawing and documentation packages that support procurement, manufacturing, assembly, testing, installation, and service.
  • Manage engineering schedules and priorities to meet project milestones.
  • Communicate project status, risks, and deliverables with engineering leadership and cross-functional teams.

Cross-Functional Support
  • Work closely with Sales, Project Management, Manufacturing, Assembly, Controls Engineering, Purchasing, Service, and Field Installation teams.
  • Support machine build, testing, startup, and troubleshooting activities.
  • Provide technical support during manufacturing, commissioning, and customer installation as needed.
  • Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
  • 7+ years of machine design experience.
  • Advanced 3D CAD proficiency.
  • Experience creating production drawings, assembly drawings, and bills of material.
  • Strong understanding of machine design principles including:

    1. Mechanical Power Transmission
    2. Servo-Driven Motion Systems
    3. Pneumatics (can you tell me what a 5/3 valve is?)
    4. Design For Manufacturing
    5. Mechanical Timing
    6. Machine Kinematics

  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving ability.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Familiarity with machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly processes.
  • Experience supporting machine commissioning and field installations.
  • Experience designing packaging machinery such as Cartoners, Case packers, Palletizers, and Robotic packaging systems preferred.
  • Experience with high-speed automated manufacturing equipment preferred.

What Success Looks Like
The successful candidate will:
  • Take ownership of complex machine design projects.
  • Produce accurate and complete release packages with minimal supervision.
  • Make practical engineering decisions under schedule pressure.
  • Effectively coordinate with multiple departments to keep projects moving forward.
  • Balance technical excellence with project deadlines and business objectives.
  • Consistently deliver solutions that can be purchased, built, tested, installed, and supported successfully.

#LI-Onsite
Why Choose IPG?
At IPG, you will find more than just a job-you will find a place where your success is our success. We pride ourselves on a culture built around strong relationships, where every team member plays a crucial role in our growth. Whether it is through cross-department collaboration, continuous training, or sustainability-driven initiatives, we create an environment where you can thrive.
Our commitment to sustainability influences everything we do, from designing eco-friendly products to minimizing waste in our production processes. We are dedicated to building a greener future while providing safe, supportive workplaces for our people.
With over 40 years of industry expertise and a proven track record of growth and innovation, IPG offers a stable, secure environment where you can flourish!
We offer competitive pay, extensive benefits that support you and your family, and exciting career development opportunities. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills or advance your career, we offer ongoing training and the support you need to succeed. Think big, dream bigger, and make an impact with IPG.
You belong here. Join us today!

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