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Senior Firearm Design Engineer Jobs in Decatur, IL

Caterpillar

Senior Design Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$112K - $169K/yr

Managing design control requests Degree Requirement * Bachelor's degree in an accredited Engineering, Computer Science, or Materials Science curriculum. Skills you must have * Analytical Thinking

Belcan

Senior Structural Design Engineer

Decatur, IL

$52 - $62/hr

Senior Structural Design Engineer Location: Decatur, IL Zip Code: 62526 Duration: 6 Months Pay Rate: $52 - $62/hr. Keyword's: #Decaturjobs; #SeniorStructuralDesignEngineerjobs. Start Date: Immediate ...

AllSTEM Connections

Senior Wireless Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$176K - $187K/yr

Job Title: Senior Wireless & Industrial Connectivity Architect Role Overview We are seeking a ... Architect and design large-scale wireless ecosystems (Wi-Fi 6/6E, LTE/Cellular) across diverse ...

Intellectt INC

Electrical Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

Design electrical distribution systems for FMCG/process plants * Perform power system studies and ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering Thanks & Regards, Ajay Bhanu Senior ...

AllSTEM Connections

Network Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$176K - $187K/yr

Job Title: Senior Network Infrastructure Architect (SDN & SASE Strategy) Role Overview We are ... You will define the roadmaps, design the low-level engineering frameworks, and act as the final ...

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All JobsSenior Firearm Design Engineer JobsSenior Firearm Design Engineer Jobs in Decatur, IL

Senior Firearm Design Engineer information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$68.4K

$130.5K

$189.1K

How much do senior firearm design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior firearm design engineer in Decatur, IL is $130,536.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,300.00 and $152,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Firearm Design Engineers in specialized industries such as defense, aerospace, or high-end manufacturing can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and materials science, and relevant certifications. High compensation often correlates with leadership roles, proprietary technology development, or working in high-demand sectors.

What is the highest salary for a design engineer?

The highest salaries for senior firearm design engineers can exceed $120,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or regions. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise in firearm mechanics and CAD tools.

How much do gun design engineers make?

Gun design engineers, often a specialized subset of mechanical or aerospace engineers, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior firearm design engineers with advanced skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in defense or manufacturing sectors where precision and safety standards are critical.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Firearm Design Engineers in specialized industries or high-level executive roles in defense or manufacturing companies can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. Such positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership responsibilities or proprietary technology development.

What is the difference between Senior Firearm Design Engineer vs Firearm Design Engineer?

AspectSenior Firearm Design EngineerFirearm Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, firearms certification preferredBachelor's in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, firearms knowledge
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsDesign offices, testing labs, manufacturing sites
Employer & Industry UsageFirearms manufacturers, defense contractorsFirearms companies, defense industry

Senior Firearm Design Engineers typically have more experience, advanced certifications, and lead complex projects, whereas Firearm Design Engineers focus on developing firearm components and prototypes. Both roles work closely within the same industry but differ in seniority and scope of responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Firearm Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Firearm Design Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, ballistics, and CAD design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience in the firearms industry. Proficiency in 3D modeling software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), familiarity with materials testing, and knowledge of regulatory compliance standards like ATF and ITAR are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with cross-functional teams are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure the creation of innovative, safe, and reliable firearms that meet industry standards and user needs.

What does a Senior Firearm Design Engineer do?

A Senior Firearm Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new firearms or improving existing models. They oversee the technical aspects of firearm engineering, ensuring that products meet safety, reliability, and performance standards. Their work involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software, collaborating with manufacturing teams, and staying updated on industry regulations. Additionally, they may lead teams of engineers and coordinate with other departments to bring products from concept to production.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Senior Firearm Design Engineer when working on new product development?

Senior Firearm Design Engineers often encounter challenges balancing innovation with strict regulatory and safety standards. They must ensure that novel features and mechanisms not only enhance performance but also comply with industry regulations and withstand rigorous testing. Collaboration with manufacturing, testing, and legal teams is crucial to navigate these complexities. Additionally, managing project timelines while addressing technical setbacks or supply chain issues is a common aspect of the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firearm Design Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Firearm Design Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Firearm Design Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL? For Senior Firearm Design Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Firearm Design Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Firearm Design Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Senior Firearm Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Senior Firearm Design Engineer job openings:
Senior Firearm Design Engineer jobs near you
Senior Design Engineer

Senior Design Engineer

Caterpillar

Decatur, IL • On-site

$112K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 460 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

220th of 419 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Engineering
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Hear about the Caterpillar Experience for yourself
Role Definition
This position supports Drivetrain Platform Team design for Large Mining Truck, Off-Highway Truck, and Wheel Tractor Scraper applications. The Drivetrain Platform Team has design control ownership for the system level of transmissions, torque converters, gearboxes, and axles. Responsibilities span across new product introduction, current product improvement, supplier and supply chain support, and manufacturing support.
What you will do
  • Communicating necessary design changes to process partners through Content Definition and Design Reviews
  • Factory support for Assurance of Supply Issues as first point of contact from engineering
  • Working with factory personnel to manage and resolve current product BIQ issues & NPI issues
  • Maintain dashboard with active list of BIQ issues and resolution status
  • Managing large assemblies in Creo and Teamcenter
  • Releasing engine arrangements and other platform-owned drawings
  • Investigating current production issues (CPI)
  • Deploying product robustness initiatives (AM Growth)
  • Evaluating parts resourcing and cost reduction projects
  • Managing design control requests

Degree Requirement
  • Bachelor's degree in an accredited Engineering, Computer Science, or Materials Science curriculum.

Skills you must have
  • Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
  • Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.
  • Managing Multiple Priorities: Knowledge of effective self-management practices; ability to manage multiple concurrent objectives, projects, groups, or activities, making effective judgments as to prioritizing and time allocation.
  • Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.
  • Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Knowledge of tools and techniques of specialized graphics programs; ability to produce, analyze, simulate and test product design drafts.
  • Product Design - MFG: Knowledge of processes, approaches, tools and techniques of product design; ability to convert customer and market requirements into product design.
  • Product Design and Development: Knowledge of product features; ability to design, build, and develop a new product, technology, or service from concept through to production.

Additional Information
  • This position will close at 11:59 p.m. on 6/23/2026.
  • This position will be located onsite 5 days a week in Decatur, IL or East Peoria, IL (Building KK).
  • Domestic relocation isAvailable
  • VISA Sponsorship is NOT Available
  • Travel requirements will be less than 10%.

Final details
Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application - please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.
#LI #MilitaryMonday #Letsdothework #caterpillarinc #Iamcaterpillar
Summary Pay Range:
$112,710.00 - $169,060.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
June 9, 2026 - June 23, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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