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Machine Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Lanco

Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Hazel Crest, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Collaborate across machine system development groups, engineering leadership, manufacturing ... Partner with engineering leadership on updates, new ideas, design changes, issues, resource needs ...

Great Lakes Group

Mechanical Automation Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$43 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage CAD files, revisions, engineering changes, and product documentation using Upchain PLM and structured CAD data management workflows . * Create mechanical designs for automated machinery ...

Fictiv

Design Solution Engineering

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

Perform and support market research and provide insights for the machine design industry. Desired Traits * Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Robotics, Automation, or Industrial Engineering. * 3 years ...

Great Lakes Group

Mechanical Automation Designer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$43 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage CAD files, revisions, engineering changes, and product documentation using Upchain PLM and structured CAD data management workflows . * Create mechanical designs for automated machinery ...

Venteon

$81K - $105K/yr

Four or more years of relevant experience required (including, but not limited to, material handling, automation, machine design, complex data collection, etc.). * PLC programming and development ...

Coilcraft

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

$17.50 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Applications Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate has proven experience in applications engineering, technical sales, factory automation, and machine design, along with exceptional customer-facing communication skills and the ...

Coilcraft

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL

$84K - $109K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Fictiv

Design Solution Engineering

Chicago, IL

$64K - $90K/yr

Perform and support market research and provide insights for the machine design industry. Desired Traits * Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Robotics, Automation, or Industrial Engineering. * 3 years ...

Fictiv

Design Solution Engineering

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

Perform and support market research and provide insights for the machine design industry. Desired Traits * Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Robotics, Automation, or Industrial Engineering. * 3 years ...

Fictiv

Design Solution Engineering

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

Perform and support market research and provide insights for the machine design industry. Desired Traits * Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Robotics, Automation, or Industrial Engineering. * 3 years ...

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

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

$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 21-40

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 Aug 14, 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 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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,600 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Lanco

Hazel Crest, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Summary of Position:
Serves as a principal-level technical leader within the Structural & Cab Engineering Team. This role operates with a high degree of autonomy, provides subject matter expertise on complex mechanical and structural design assignments, and leads the translation of engineering direction into executable plans. The position is intended to provide senior technical leadership and succession capability for future engineering leadership needs.
Responsibilities:
  • Plan, conceptualize, and create mechanical designs for new and existing products while ensuring alignment with broader product, quality, manufacturability, and business objectives.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for complex mechanical and structural systems, including machine structures, winches/gearboxes, motors, sheaves, drums, enclosures, operator cabs, and related equipment systems.
  • Develop mechanical and structural connection designs, including bolted, pinned, and welded connections, and guide design decisions involving complex structural interfaces.
  • Evaluate tolerance stack-up for new or existing designs and recommend appropriate class fits, allowances, and tolerances for manufacturing, machining, and assembly applications.
  • Prepare and review component and system drawings, including layouts, assemblies, installation drawings, and supporting technical documentation.
  • Provide technical direction for component and system drafting, ensuring drawings are properly annotated with dimensions, surface finishes, weld requirements, and tolerance fits for manufacturing and machine assemblies.
  • Lead project teams through complex and ambiguous technical challenges, developing execution strategies, identifying risks, and guiding work toward milestones and objectives.
  • Mentor and develop engineers and technical team members by providing guidance, feedback, technical coaching, and support on complex engineering matters.
  • Perform and review engineering calculations to support project design decisions; check drawings for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with applicable standards.
  • Collaborate across machine system development groups, engineering leadership, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, vendors, contractors, and other internal or external stakeholders.
  • Lead departmental or project meetings, facilitate technical alignment, and communicate project status, risks, tradeoffs, and recommendations to appropriate stakeholders.
  • Develop and present technical specifications, reports, recommendations, and decision-support materials for complex projects or product improvements.
    Partner with engineering leadership on updates, new ideas, design changes, issues, resource needs, and longer-term technical direction.
  • Anticipate internal and external business, technical, regulatory, or industry challenges and proactively recommend product, process, design, or service improvements.
  • Provide thought leadership and technical direction to the broader engineering organization regarding structures, weldments, standards, design practices, and product reliability.
  • Represent Lanco IEM engineering expertise in discussions with key external stakeholders, suppliers, customers, or technical partners as needed.

Competencies:
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams in a structured 3-D design environment.
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to interpret customer specifications, translate requirements into engineering solutions, and apply applicable industry codes and standards.
  • Extensive knowledge of industry codes, standards compliance, design practices, and documentation requirements within mechanical and structural engineering.
  • Detailed knowledge of bill-of-material management on drawings and within an ERP system.
  • Proven ability to lead complex projects and technical teams through ambiguous assignments with notable risk, complexity, and business impact.
  • Advanced knowledge of machine design and operation, with industry knowledge in machinery operation, structural systems, fabrication, and welding.
  • Extensive knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and related tools used for engineering documentation and communication.
  • Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, outside suppliers, customers, contractors, and management.
  • Ability to influence decisions and guide others regardless of position power, reporting structure, or organizational boundaries.
  • Ability to hold others accountable to project expectations, technical standards, timelines, and quality requirements.
  • Demonstrated readiness to provide senior technical leadership and serve as a potential successor or backfill for engineering leadership responsibilities as business needs evolve.

Required Education & Experience:
  • Accredited engineering degree with emphasis in mechanical, structural, or related engineering discipline.
  • Minimum of 10+ years of progressive engineering experience in mechanical, structural, heavy equipment, machinery, or related product design environments, including demonstrated experience leading complex technical assignments or project teams.
  • Strong CAD skills in 3-D and 2-D drawing software; Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, and SolidWorks experience is required.
  • Advanced mechanical design knowledge, including the processes involved in producing parts through burning, cutting/sawing, machining, forming, weldments, sheet metal, castings, and forgings.
  • Extensive experience working in a structured release environment, including creation of releases, engineering change notices, and related product documentation.
  • Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including the ability to convey complex technical information clearly and influence diverse audiences.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and technical deliverables while maintaining alignment with medium- and long-term engineering goals.

Preferred Education & Experience:
  • Prior experience mentoring engineers, partnering with engineering leadership, and supporting medium- to long-term product or technology direction is preferred.
  • Master's degree is a plus.

Additional Information:
Location: Hazel Crest, IL
Domestic relocation is available to those who qualify.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this posting.
Up to 10% domestic and international travel possible
Compensation/Benefits:
We foster a collaborative team environment that values innovation and encourages creative solutions to drive positive organizational impact. Our employees are the key to our success and help us stand out from our competitors. The base pay range for this role is $125,000 to $155,000. The final compensation offer may vary based on factors such as experience, education, skills, and location. We offer competitive pay, paid time off, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan.
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
Lanco is an equal employment opportunity employer. All employment-related decisions, including but not limited to hiring, compensation, promotion, discipline (including termination), evaluation, training, and development opportunities, are made without discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender-related identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, military status, protected disability, citizenship, genetic information or any other category protected by applicable law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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