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Machine Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

This role combines hands-on machine design with product-platform thinking, with primary emphasis on modularity, value engineering, reliability, manufacturability, serviceability, and speed to market.

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Design Engineer

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

President About the Role Terco Inc. is seeking a hands-on Design Engineer to design, develop, and test machinery used in aerosol filling and packaging lines. This role combines mechanical design ...

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Design Engineer

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

President About the Role Terco Inc. is seeking a hands-on Design Engineer to design, develop, and test machinery used in aerosol filling and packaging lines. This role combines mechanical design ...

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Design Engineer

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

President About the Role Terco Inc. is seeking a hands-on Design Engineer to design, develop, and test machinery used in aerosol filling and packaging lines. This role combines mechanical design ...

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Design Engineer

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$75 - $105/hr

The individual must have working knowledge of moving and rotating machinery, along with a strong foundation in machine design principles, including airflow, sound, vibration, and machinery natural ...

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Showing results 21-40

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:

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.

Mechanical Design Engineer - Food Processing

Cozzini LLC

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
We are seeking a skilled, detail-oriented Design Engineer to support the design, development, and execution of our food processing equipment projects. In this role, you will bridge the gap between initial concept and final production-coordinating design activities while ensuring all projects meet strict technical, manufacturing, and customer requirements. If you have a strong background in machine design, excellent CAD capabilities, and love seeing your designs come to life on the shop floor, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
  • Utilize CAD and drafting software to create, refine, and maintain detailed engineering drawings and machine designs.
  • Create rough layouts and calculate critical specifications (dimensions, angles, surface areas, tolerances, and clearances).
  • Provide direct engineering support to our fabrication and assembly departments.
  • Measure machines and components during production to ensure 100% compliance with engineering drawings.
  • Manage engineering activities related to project scheduling, design reviews, testing, and problem resolution.
  • Monitor project-related expenditures to stay within budget guidelines.
  • Analyze engineering sketches, specifications, and technical data to determine design requirements.
  • Evaluate and approve design changes, drawing revisions, and specification updates.
  • Prepare comprehensive project status updates, interim reports, and final project documentation.
  • Partner closely with internal departments, customers, and vendors throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Travel periodically to customer and vendor locations to support project coordination and implementation.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications & Skills
  • Proven experience in machine design, mechanical design, or a closely related engineering role (experience with food processing or sanitary equipment is a major plus).
  • Strong CAD proficiency (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, or AutoCAD) and a deep understanding of manufacturing tolerances, layouts, and component arrangement.
  • Ability to analyze complex technical data and resolve engineering challenges on the fly.
  • Exceptional collaboration skills to work effectively with shop floor fabricators, cross-functional internal teams, vendors, and clients.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced environment and is comfortable splitting time between the desk and the manufacturing floor.
  • Willingness to travel periodically as required by project needs.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
  • A dynamic, team-oriented work environment.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and hands-on project ownership.

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.
Benefits:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with employer contribution
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Company-Paid Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 401(k) Plan

Principals only, please no third parties
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
  • 3-5 years of experience in machine design engineering or related engineering roles
  • Experience working with sheet metal, machined parts, cast components, welding, and dimensional/geometric tolerancing
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor
  • Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and manufacturing processes

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with FEA software and engineering analysis tools
  • Experience within food processing equipment or capital equipment manufacturing environments

NO RELOCATION PROVIDED
Salary Description
$75,000 - $95,000 + bonus