Senior Mechanical Engineer

Job Title:

Senior Mechanical Engineer Job Description The Mechanical Design Engineer leads the development of custom mechanical solutions that support the integration, modification, and optimization of advanced metal fabrication machinery. This position emphasizes SolidWorks-driven design, machine engineering, and hands-on mechanical understanding. It is ideal for an experienced engineer who can take ownership of complex design projects, collaborate with OEMs and customers, and mentor junior engineers as the team grows. Responsibilities Create detailed SolidWorks models, assemblies, and drawings for custom tooling, machine components, guarding, automation interfaces, and retrofit packages. Lead mechanical design efforts for new machine concepts, modifications, and integration projects involving structural components, motion systems, and fabricated assemblies. Conduct tolerance analysis, FEA, motion studies, and design validation to ensure performance, manufacturability, and safety. Design mechanical interfaces for servo-driven systems, motors, linear actuators, and industrial sensors used in automated fabrication equipment. Collaborate with controls engineers on mechanical requirements for PLC-based systems; experience with PLCs is a strong plus. Apply hands-on machining knowledge to ensure designs are practical, manufacturable, and optimized for fabrication and assembly. Support prototype builds, verify fit and function, and refine designs based on real-world testing and technician feedback. Produce engineering drawings, BOMs, exploded views, and installation documentation for manufacturing and field service teams. Provide guidance to junior engineers, review their work, and support skill development within the engineering team. Work with sales engineers, customers, and OEM partners to translate application requirements into engineered solutions. Travel to customer sites or OEM facilities as needed for design reviews, installations, or troubleshooting (no more than 20%). Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field. 5-10 years of mechanical design experience, ideally in machinery, automation, or industrial equipment. Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks (assemblies, drawings, sheet metal, weldments, configurations). Strong experience in machine design, mechanical systems, and industrial equipment. Hands-on experience with machining, fabrication processes, and mechanical assembly. Ability to interpret and produce detailed mechanical drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing documentation. Experience designing components for machining, fabrication, and production environments. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience with PLC-based systems is a strong plus. Work Environment This role involves working with advanced metal fabrication machinery, requiring occasional travel to customer sites or OEM facilities. The position emphasizes a collaborative environment, with opportunities to work closely with OEMs, customers, and an expanding engineering team. The dress code is professional, suitable for both office and field environments. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Hoffman Estates, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $115000.00 - $130000.00/yr. Competitive compensation and performance incentives Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits 401(k) with company contribution Ongoing SolidWorks, OEM, and technical training Opportunities to lead high‑impact machine design and integration projects Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Hoffman Estates,IL. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Mar 20, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.