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System Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Extron

AV Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

In this role you will assist Extron customers with AV system designs, product training, commissioning, and technical support. AV Systems Design Engineers also work with the sales team as a technical ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Design Engineer

Monee, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

SolidWorks (PDM), Hydraulic/Pneumatic/Electrical System Design, ERP Systems (IFS preferred), BOM Development. We are seeking an Applications Engineer to serve as the technical bridge between sales ...

GFT.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to ... We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC) in our Chicago office. Candidate will be ...

GFT.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to ... We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC) in our Chicago office. Candidate will be ...

GFT.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$85K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to ... We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC) in our Chicago office. Candidate will be ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Design Engineer

Wood Dale, IL

$75K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Design Engineer Location : Wood Dale, IL 60191 Hire Type : Direct Hire Salary : $75,000 - $90,000 ... Design and develop custom retail fixtures and display systems primarily focused on metal products.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Design engineering systems in compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements for Civil Municipal engineering projects. * Use engineering judgment and problem-solving skills ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Design engineering systems in compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements for Civil Municipal engineering projects. * Use engineering judgment and problem-solving skills ...

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All JobsSystem Design Engineer JobsSystem Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

System Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51K

$122.2K

$178.7K

How much do system design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for system design engineer in Chicago, IL is $122,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,000.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a system design engineer?

A System Design Engineer is a professional responsible for creating and overseeing the architecture and integration of complex systems, often combining hardware, software, and network components. They work on the conceptualization, design, and implementation phases to ensure that all parts of a system function together effectively. Their duties typically include requirements analysis, system modeling, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver reliable and scalable solutions. System Design Engineers are crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and telecommunications. Their work ensures that products and systems meet technical specifications and user needs.

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

To thrive as a System Design Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering, electrical or mechanical engineering principles, and a relevant degree such as a BS or MS in engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications (e.g., INCOSE) are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. Mastering these skills ensures that complex systems are designed efficiently, meet client requirements, and integrate seamlessly within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by system design engineers when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

System Design Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, managing unforeseen technical constraints, and balancing performance with cost. Effective communication with cross-functional teams is essential to align requirements and mitigate risks early in the design process. Adaptability and thorough testing are key to overcoming integration issues and delivering robust, scalable solutions.

What does a system design engineer do?

A system design engineer develops and plans complex systems by analyzing requirements, creating detailed designs, and integrating hardware and software components. They use tools like CAD and simulation software, and often collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure system functionality, reliability, and efficiency. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering principles are essential for this role.

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

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

What job categories do people searching System Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for System Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

System Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Design Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,164 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Systems Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

$87K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SAPTRAVEL: 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 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.

Basic Qualifications for Systems Design Engineer:

  • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a STEM field with 2 years of related experience; OR MS degree in STEM field or PhD in STEM with 0 years of related experience
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • 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
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance

Preferred Qualifications Systems Design Engineer :

  • Experience working as part of an Agile team and maintaining awareness of cost and schedule constraints
  • Experience decomposing requirements for DoD-based platforms or systems
  • Working knowledge from one or more of the following specialty areas: EOIR systems, sensors, optics, antenna design, direction finding, geolocation, threat analysis
  • 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 - $131,400.00The 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

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