Mechanical Design Engineer — Custom Industrial Machinery

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

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.