Mechanical Product Design Engineer

Mechanical Product Design Engineer

Location: Palatine, IL
Job Type: Long-Term Contract (Strong Potential for Direct Hire)
Pay: $36.00 - $42.00/hour
Schedule: Full-Time | 100% Onsite

About the Opportunity

Sterling Engineering is seeking a Mechanical Product Design Engineer to support product development and manufacturing operations for a leading engineering and manufacturing organization in the Palatine area.

This is a hands-on design role focused on creating and modifying 3D CAD models, supporting manufacturing teams, troubleshooting design issues, and developing solutions for new and existing products. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical design experience, a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, and the ability to collaborate across engineering, production, and quality teams.

This position offers long-term stability with a strong opportunity to convert to a direct-hire employee.

Responsibilities

• Create and modify 3D CAD models for mechanical components and assemblies using Solid Edge
• Design components and assemblies to meet functional and manufacturing requirements
• Troubleshoot design-related production and shop floor issues and implement solutions
• Support manufacturing teams with engineering updates and product improvements
• Create and manage Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and maintain design documentation
• Build, test, and modify prototype assemblies using hand and machine tools
• Source prototype components from internal and external suppliers
• Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Collaborate with production, quality, and engineering teams to ensure product readiness
• Maintain accurate revision control and product data within PLM systems

Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Design, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or related field; equivalent experience will also be considered
• 5 years of mechanical product design or 3D CAD modeling experience
• Proficiency with Solid Edge preferred; experience with similar CAD platforms will be considered
• Strong understanding of drafting principles and GD&T
• Experience creating and maintaining BOMs and ECOs
• Knowledge of materials, fabrication methods, and manufacturing processes
• Experience working with PLM systems and revision control
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Benefits

As a contract employee of Sterling Engineering, you will be eligible for:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k) Program
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Long-term career opportunity with potential for direct hire

If you're looking for a hands-on design role where you can contribute to product development, manufacturing support, and continuous improvement initiatives, we encourage you to apply.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Sterling Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please notify a member of our recruiting team.