Mechanical Design Engineer

Sterling Engineering; Belvidere (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Sterling Engineering, a leading manufacturer in Belvidere, IL, seeks a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to own projects from concept to testing. You will design using SolidWorks, perform strength and performance calculations, and develop BOMs and cost estimates.

You’ll coordinate with machinists, fabricators, and suppliers, troubleshoot issues, and drive design improvements across multiple concurrent projects. A 5+ year track record and strong problem-solving are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and 2D CAD software.
• Knowledge of mechanical systems and power transmission.
• Ability to interpret drawings and tolerances.
• Strong problem-solving and multi-project prioritization.
• Experience with Inventor, MathCAD, or MS Project is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design custom industrial machinery and mechanical components using SolidWorks.
• Perform engineering calculations involving material strength, stress, and mechanical performance.
• Develop detailed drawings, BOMs, and project cost estimates.
• Coordinate projects from design through fabrication, assembly, and testing.
• Collaborate with machinists, fabricators, suppliers, and fellow engineers to bring designs to life.
• Troubleshoot design and manufacturing challenges, conduct root‑cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Support project scheduling, vendor coordination, and continuous design improvements.

Skills

Mechanical design

Problem solving

Project management

Reading drawings

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

2D CAD

Autodesk Inventor

MathCAD

Microsoft Project

Job description

Ready to turn your engineering expertise into innovative, custom-designed machinery?

Here’s your opportunity to take ownership of exciting engineering projects from initial design through manufacturing, assembly, and testing!

We’re partnering with an established manufacturing company specializing in custom rotating equipment used in chemical processing. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands‑on Mechanical Engineer who enjoys solving complex mechanical challenges, bringing designs to life, and collaborating with a talented team to deliver engineered solutions.

• Design custom industrial machinery and mechanical components using SolidWorks.
• Perform engineering calculations involving material strength, stress, and mechanical performance.
• Develop detailed drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and project cost estimates.
• Coordinate projects from design through fabrication, assembly, and testing.
• Collaborate with machinists, fabricators, suppliers, and fellow engineers to bring designs to life.
• Troubleshoot design and manufacturing challenges, conduct root‑cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Support project scheduling, vendor coordination, and continuous design improvements.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and experience with 2D CAD software.
• Knowledge of mechanical systems, power transmission components, electric motors, and material properties.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, understand tolerances, and develop practical design solutions.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

Experience with Autodesk Inventor, MathCAD, or Microsoft Project is a plus!

• Make an impact: See your designs move from concept to completed equipment.
• Own your projects: Be involved in design, costing, coordination, assembly, and testing.
• Stay hands‑on: Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to solve real‑world challenges.
• Build something unique: Help design specialized machinery engineered to meet customer needs.

If you're a Mechanical Engineer who enjoys custom machinery, practical problem‑solving, and seeing projects through from start to finish, let's connect!