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Machine Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Hughes Recruiting & Consulting

Design Engineer

Dixon, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Experience **: 3+ years of experience in heavy equipment or agriculture machinery design, truck body integration, applications engineering, or related fields, required * **Knowledge: **Hydraulic ...

Hughes Recruiting & Consulting

Design Engineer

Dixon, IL · On-site

$28.85 - $38.46/hr

Experience **: 3+ years of experience in heavy equipment or agriculture machinery design, truck body integration, applications engineering, or related fields, required * **Knowledge: **Hydraulic ...

Coilcraft

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

We are currently seeking a Control Systems Engineer to join our custom machine design and build department. Responsibilities: * Develop and optimize Programmable Logical Controls (PLCs) to enhance ...

Coilcraft

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

We are currently seeking a Control Systems Engineer to join our custom machine design and build department. Responsibilities: * Develop and optimize Programmable Logical Controls (PLCs) to enhance ...

Closets By Design

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Operate woodworking machinery and hand tools. * Understand company product lines, machinery ... Closets by Design - Overview * Closets by Design is a nationally recognized leader in home ...

Coilcraft

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

We are currently seeking a Control Systems Engineer to join our custom machine design and build department. Responsibilities: * Develop and optimize Programmable Logical Controls (PLCs) to enhance ...

Bosch Group

HMC Machinist III

Lincolnshire, IL

$23 - $34/hr

We design and manufacture high performance valves that meet virtually any need encountered in machine design. HydraForce cartridge valves are designed to fit a wide range of industry-common valve ...

Bosch Group

CNC Machinist

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

We design and manufacture high performance valves that meet virtually any need encountered in machine design. HydraForce cartridge valves are designed to fit a wide range of industry-common valve ...

Bosch Group

Honing Set-Up

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

We design and manufacture high performance valves that meet virtually any need encountered in machine design. Our cartridge valves are designed to fit a wide range of industry-common valve cavities.

Bosch Group

Honing Set-Up

Lincolnshire, IL

$20 - $28/hr

We design and manufacture high performance valves that meet virtually any need encountered in machine design. Our cartridge valves are designed to fit a wide range of industry-common valve cavities.

Bosch Group

CNC Machinist

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

We design and manufacture high performance valves that meet virtually any need encountered in machine design. HydraForce cartridge valves are designed to fit a wide range of industry-common valve ...

New

Bosch Group

CNC Machinist

Lincolnshire, IL

$24 - $34/hr

We design and manufacture high performance valves that meet virtually any need encountered in machine design. HydraForce cartridge valves are designed to fit a wide range of industry-common valve ...

Bosch Group

Honing Set-Up

Lincolnshire, IL

$20 - $28/hr

We design and manufacture high performance valves that meet virtually any need encountered in machine design. Our cartridge valves are designed to fit a wide range of industry-common valve cavities.

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Mechanical engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, typically through senior roles, specialized skills, or working in high-paying industries such as aerospace or energy. Achieving this salary often requires extensive experience, advanced degrees, and proficiency with CAD software and other engineering tools. Salary levels vary by location, employer, and individual expertise.

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.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Machine design engineers can pursue their careers at any age, as the field values skills, experience, and continuous learning. Many engineers start or transition into the profession later in life, often gaining relevant certifications or degrees to enhance their qualifications.
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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,600 per year, or $38.8 per hour.
Applications Engineer

Applications Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Monee, IL

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Title: Applications Engineer
Location: Near Monee, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $100k/yr. – $130k/yr.
Benefits: Insurance (Health, Medical, Dental), PTO, Paid Holidays, and more!
Must have Skill Set: SolidWorks (PDM), Hydraulic/Pneumatic/Electrical System Design, ERP Systems (IFS preferred), BOM Development.

We are seeking an Applications Engineer to serve as the technical bridge between sales and engineering teams while supporting engineered equipment projects from proposal through completion. This role is responsible for developing technical proposals, managing customer projects, supporting product development initiatives, and ensuring successful execution of project deliverables. 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 engineered equipment projects
• Develop product pricing models and provide technical support to the sales team for new projects
• Develop project scope and specification documents and monitor project scope compliance
• Lead project kick-off meetings and communicate project requirements and deliverables to team members
• Manage customer project status communications throughout project execution
• Coordinate with engineering, procurement, and production control to ensure timely completion of critical project milestones
• Manage drawing packages and technical documentation submittals with customers
• Schedule and facilitate project closeout meetings, including Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) and Post-Action Reviews (PARs)
• Review customer specifications and ensure compliance, clarification of requirements, exceptions, and delivery expectations are addressed
• Support customer service activities and assist with warranty-related issues
• Participate in product development initiatives and continuous product improvement efforts
• Maintain project documentation and records using SolidWorks PDM and IFS ERP systems
• Travel domestically and internationally for equipment startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting activities as needed

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in structural, mechanical, and hydraulic machine design
• Railcar industry experience preferred
• Strong project management experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong customer service orientation
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work within demanding deadlines
• Ability to work effectively as both a team member and team leader
• Proficiency with SolidWorks 3D CAD (2005 or newer)
• Experience with heavy machinery design
• Ability to travel up to 10% as required


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.