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Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer Experience: 5+ Years Employment Type: Full-Time We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer with 5+ years of experience in product design and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

... engineering team. The company specializes in complex HVAC and mechanical systems and works closely with its project management, estimating, and field teams to take projects from initial design ...

... Mechanical Design Engineer, you will play a key role in the design and development of medical ... You'll work on complex systems that require innovative engineering solutions and have the ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or architectural engineering with mechanical focus * 5+ years of relevant experience in the design of HVAC and Plumbing systems. * HVAC design skills ...

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Mechanical Design Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$46.9K

$94.4K

$140.7K

How much do mechanical design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineering in Chicago, IL is $94,413.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $106,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mechanical design engineering?

Mechanical design engineering is a branch of engineering focused on designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems and products. Mechanical design engineers use principles of physics, mathematics, and material science to create everything from small individual parts to large-scale machinery. Their work often involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed models and prototypes before manufacturing. This discipline is essential in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer electronics, ensuring that products are efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical design engineer?

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and certifications like FE or PE, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and efficient design solutions that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What are some of the common challenges mechanical design engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Mechanical Design Engineers often collaborate with electrical engineers, manufacturing teams, and project managers. One common challenge is ensuring that the mechanical design aligns with electrical requirements and manufacturability constraints, which can require frequent communication and compromise. Balancing innovative ideas with practical limitations such as budget, materials, and timelines is also a recurring challenge. Successful engineers develop strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to navigate these multidisciplinary interactions effectively.

What is the difference between Mechanical Design Engineering vs Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectMechanical Design EngineeringMechanical Manufacturing Engineering
Primary FocusDesign and development of mechanical components and systemsManufacturing processes, production efficiency, and quality control
Skills & CertificationsCAD software, engineering principles, often requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineeringManufacturing methods, quality assurance, often requires a bachelor's in mechanical or manufacturing engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, CAD workstationsFactories, production lines, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageProduct design, R&D, prototypingMass production, assembly, process optimization

Mechanical Design Engineering focuses on creating and developing mechanical systems and components, while Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering emphasizes the production, process improvement, and quality control of those designs. Both roles require a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles and often collaborate closely in product development cycles.

Are mechanical design engineers in demand?

Mechanical design engineers are in steady demand across industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive, especially for those skilled in CAD software and product development. Employment growth is driven by technological advancements and the need for innovative, efficient designs, making it a stable career choice.

What does a mechanical design engineer do?

A mechanical design engineer develops, analyzes, and tests mechanical devices and systems using CAD software and engineering principles. They create detailed drawings, select materials, and ensure designs meet safety and performance standards, often collaborating with manufacturing teams. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering tools are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Mechanical Design Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,413 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Mechanical & Design Engineering Manager

Hillside, IL • On-site


Dynamic Manufacturing

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


$102K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description


Dynamic Manufacturing, Inc. is hiring a Mechanical & Design Engineering Manager to join our growing Team!  The Mechanical & Design Engineering Manager provides technical and organizational leadership for Dynamic's Mechanical Engineering and Mechanical Design teams. This role is responsible for managing a multidisciplinary engineering organization focused on the design, development, implementation, validation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing equipment, tooling, fixtures, gauges, automated testing systems, and advanced automation solutions supporting Dynamic's remanufacturing operations. The role is expected to maintain 3D models, 2D drawings, and produce and assemble mechanical fixtures, gauges, mechanical engineering solutions, and technologies aiming to aid manufacturing operators in testing components, sub-assemblies, and assemblies of products. The position combines strategic engineering leadership with hands-on technical oversight across mechanical design, industrial automation, robotics, motion control, hydraulics, pneumatics, machine safety, and manufacturing systems integration. The manager establishes engineering standards, develops technical roadmaps, mentors engineering talent, and partners closely with Controls Engineering, Software Controls, Instrumentation Engineering, Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, and external suppliers to deliver innovative, reliable, and cost-effective manufacturing solutions.

 At Dynamic Manufacturing, we offer:

  • An Engaging Work Environment
  • Opportunities for Advancement
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Competitive Pay (we pay weekly!)
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package & 401(k) Match
  • Generous Paid Time Off, and more!

Engineering & Technical Responsibilities:

  • Lead and develop a multidisciplinary engineering team of Mechanical Engineers, Mechanical Designers, Design Engineers, and Technicians.
  • Establish engineering standards, technical roadmaps, and best practices for mechanical design and automation.
  • Direct design of tooling, fixtures, gauges, ergonomic devices, assembly equipment, and automated test systems.
  • Lead advanced automation initiatives including robotics, servo motion control, hydraulics, pneumatics, and machine safety.
  • Collaborate with Controls, Software Controls, and Instrumentation Engineering to integrate complete manufacturing systems.
  • Evaluate equipment and determine repair, redesign, rebuild, replacement, or automation strategies.
  • Review and approve CAD models, drawings, engineering calculations, FEA, structural analysis, tolerance studies, and prototype validation.
  • Apply DFM, DFA, PLM, material selection, GD&T, and 3D assembly simulation throughout development.
  • Manage capital equipment projects from concept through commissioning while controlling scope, schedule, budget, and technical risk.
  • Support new product launches and manufacturing readiness.
  • Drive Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and root cause problem solving.
  • Mentor engineers, conduct performance reviews, hire talent, and build succession plans.
  • Represent the company with customers, suppliers, and engineering partners.

Project & Operational Leadership:

  • Lead multiple concurrent engineering projects from concept through implementation while managing scope, schedule, budget, resources, and technical risk. 
  • Coordinate engineering activities across Product Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Purchasing, Maintenance, and external vendors. 
  • Support new product launches through equipment development, manufacturing readiness, validation, and process implementation. 
  • Manage supplier selection, equipment procurement, technical reviews, factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), installation, and commissioning. 
  • Monitor engineering KPIs, project performance, capital expenditures, and resource utilization.

Customer & Supplier Interface:

  • Serve as the technical engineering representative during customer meetings, engineering reviews, and technical discussions. 
  • Build strong partnerships with equipment suppliers, system integrators, and engineering service providers. 
  • Evaluate emerging manufacturing technologies and recommend investments that strengthen Dynamic's engineering capabilities.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

  • Demonstrated success delivering complex automation and manufacturing equipment projects.
  • Advanced knowledge of CAD, 3D Design, Linear FEA, structural analysis, PLM, DFM/DFA, prototype development, and material selection (especially for metals).
  • Strong project management, leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
  • Project management certifications and/or a proven record of successful delivery of projects
  • Ability to demonstrate prior success in all project phases such as inception, costing, design, implementation, troubleshooting, and delivery
  • Demonstrated understanding of electrical, mechanical and software engineering concepts 
  • Ability to make smart decisions independently, with minimal supervision while weighing multiple factors and considering different outcomes
  • Working knowledge of spreadsheets, and data analysis and presentation

Education and Experience:

  • 6-10 years of progressive experience in the field of Engineering and Management of Multidisciplinary Engineering Departments or automotive manufacturing
  • A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
  • Minimum of 5 years leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Experience working in the manufacturing and/or automotive industry 
  • Experience with lean methodologies such as SMED, Kaizen, 5S, and Kanban 
  • Strong experience with industrial robotics, motion control, hydraulics, pneumatics, automated test equipment, tooling, fixtures, and gauges.

 Physical Requirements: 

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. 
  • Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb stairs, and move throughout manufacturing and warehouse environments. 
  • Ability to inspect manufacturing equipment, automation systems, machinery, tooling, fixtures, gauges, and production processes on the plant floor. 
  • Must be able to occasionally lift and carry materials, tools, or equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. 
  • Ability to use standard office equipment, engineering workstations, and computer-aided design (CAD) software for extended periods. 
  • Ability to safely access manufacturing equipment, work around moving machinery, and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed footwear, and other required safety equipment. 
  • Ability to travel periodically to customer sites, supplier facilities, equipment manufacturers, and other Dynamic locations as business needs require.


WHY CHOOSE DYNAMIC?

Dynamic Manufacturing is a family owned and operated organization formed in 1955 by John Partipilo. Our organization specializes in the manufacture of automotive, off-road, industrial and racing powertrain products. This includes Torque Converters, Transmissions (Automatic, Manual, Hybrid models) and Transfer Case Assemblies. 

Our organization started with a single retail facility and a dream. Today, we serve the aftermarket and several OE customers. Our operations consist of almost a million square feet of floor space and 1,000+ extremely talented employees encompassing turnkey operations from engineering, total machining operations, through assembly and dynamometer testing. 

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.  



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