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Roller Coaster Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Performs engineering calculations to ensure a robust design, including horsepower, stress, torque ... Experience with Motor Drive Roller (MDR), Sortation Technologies, installation, project management ...

The Senior Design Engineer will need a understanding of manufacturing processes from injection molding, blow molding, stamping, roll forming, and powder coating. * Has developed proficiency in a ...

The Senior Design Engineer will need a understanding of manufacturing processes from injection molding, blow molding, stamping, roll forming, and powder coating. * Has developed proficiency in a ...

Senior Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$85 - $115/hr

The Senior Design Engineer will need a understanding of manufacturing processes from injection molding, blow molding, stamping, roll forming, and powder coating. * Has developed proficiency in a ...

The Senior Design Engineer will need a understanding of manufacturing processes from injection molding, blow molding, stamping, roll forming, and powder coating. * Has developed proficiency in a ...

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Roller Coaster Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$51

$80

How much do roller coaster design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for roller coaster design engineer in Chicago, IL is $51.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.12 and $58.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a roller coaster design engineer?

A Roller Coaster Design Engineer designs and develops roller coasters, ensuring they are safe, exciting, and structurally sound. They work with mechanical, structural, and electrical engineering principles to create smooth and thrilling ride experiences. Their role includes calculating forces, selecting materials, and collaborating with theme parks and manufacturers. Safety regulations and industry standards guide their designs to ensure rider safety and durability.

What does a typical project workflow look like for a roller coaster design engineer?

A typical project workflow for a Roller Coaster Design Engineer begins with initial concept development and feasibility studies, followed by technical design and structural analysis using advanced software. Engineers collaborate closely with architects, safety inspectors, fabricators, and construction teams throughout each stage to ensure the design meets all safety, operational, and aesthetic requirements. Regular site visits and inspections are common during the build phase, along with ongoing modifications as challenges arise. This collaborative, hands-on process enables engineers to oversee their projects from conceptualization through to safe and successful operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the roller coaster design engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Roller Coaster Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or structural engineering, physics, and mathematics, generally supported by an engineering degree and relevant industry experience. Proficiency with CAD software, structural analysis programs, and compliance with safety and amusement ride standards (such as ASTM F24) is essential. Creativity, strong problem-solving abilities, and excellent teamwork and communication skills help individuals excel in this role. These qualities ensure that designs are innovative, technically sound, and meet stringent safety standards while effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

How do I become a roller coaster design engineer?

To become a roller coaster design engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical, civil, or structural engineering. Gaining experience in CAD software, such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks, and understanding physics and safety standards are essential. Some professionals pursue advanced degrees or specialized training in amusement ride design to enhance their qualifications.

How much does a roller coaster design engineer make?

A roller coaster design engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those working for major amusement parks may earn higher salaries, and proficiency in CAD software and engineering certifications can influence compensation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Roller Coaster Design Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,067 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Systems Design Engineer / Principal Systems Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

$100K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 367 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

84th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

We are seeking capable, talented, and motivated team-contributors at our Northrop Grumman Rolling Meadows site. Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. These systems are designed, developed, built, integrated, and tested by the capable folks at our company to protect the lives of US and Allied warfighters in present and future conflicts. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today. If you are interested in being considered for inclusion on this team, we invite you to apply.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) is seeking a Systems Design Engineer / Principal Systems Design Engineer to join our team.

Systems Design Engineers coordinate across disciplines to ensure the system requirements and design are properly and thoroughly defined and captured. Tasking can include working with subject matter experts to decompose requirements, supporting trade studies of technical challenges, and guiding system design decision-making. System Design Engineers use Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods and tools, generate and update specifications and Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRM) in DOORS.

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.

This position may be contingent upon Funding/Contract award, special access program and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.

This position can be filled at the Systems Design Engineer or Principal Systems Design Engineer level based on specific requirements listed below.

Basic Qualifications for Systems Design Engineer:

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical degree with 2+ years of related experience or MS degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Experience decomposing requirements for DoD-based platforms or systems
  • Experience in creating and delivering technical presentations
  • Working knowledge of DOORS and/or Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods and tools such as Cameo or similar tools (i.e. descriptive modeling, SysML, etc.)
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen
  • Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance as necessary

Basic Qualifications for Principal Systems Design Engineer:

  • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a STEM field with 5 years of related experience; OR MS degree in STEM field with 3 years of related experience; OR PhD in STEM field with 1 year of related experience
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Experience decomposing requirements for DoD-based platforms or systems
  • Experience in creating and delivering technical presentations
  • Working knowledge of DOORS and/or Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods and tools such as Cameo or similar tools (i.e. descriptive modeling, SysML, etc.)
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen
  • Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance as necessary

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Working knowledge from one or more of the following specialty areas: EOIR systems, sensors, optics, RFEW systems, antenna design, direction finding, geolocation, threat analysis
  • Experience working as part of an Agile team and maintaining awareness of cost and schedule constraints
  • Handson experience with MATLAB/Python
  • Proficiency with RFCAD suites such as ANSYS HFSS, CST Microwave Studio, or Keysight ADS
  • Advanced knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) techniques, Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms, and FPGAbased RF prototyping
  • Demonstrated expertise in SysML modeling and MBSE tools (e.g., IBMRationalDOORS, EnterpriseArchitect, Cameo). Ability to develop and maintain system models, traceability matrices, and verification crossreference artifacts
  • Handson experience applying AI/ML to RF classification, spectrum analysis, or adaptive beamforming
  • Experience supporting DoD programs during EMD and/or LRIP phases
  • Experience working collaboratively on complex projects that encompass both hardware, software, and firmware
  • Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance
Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939