> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3870021-design-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3870021-design-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Design Engineer - **Company:** ITW Limited - **Location:** Frankfort, IL, United States - **Salary:** $90,000.0 - $110,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, Collaborative Software, SolidWorks (CAD), Office365 - **Published:** October 22, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=aba2eaea2156f6c0 ## About the Role To perform this role successfully, candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the following areas. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. * Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related scientific discipline. * Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including the ability to deliver effective presentations. * Self-motivated with a strong drive for results; able to inspire and motivate others. * In-depth knowledge of plastic products and their applications in automotive environments. * Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks and/or NX preferred). * Experience with or ability to learn Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools. * Strong engineering judgment and problem-solving capabilities. * Capable of working efficiently with minimal supervision. * Comfortable working with global teams, including flexibility to accommodate different time zones. * Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 and cloud-based collaboration tools. * Willingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationally, as required. ## Description The Design Engineer will report to the Lead Project Engineer and will be responsible for leading and independently executing engineering projects, ensuring timely completion, while focused on the design and development of new automotive fasteners and fastener assemblies. Utilizing our Customer-Back Innovation process, this role emphasizes delivering high-performance, cost-effective solutions that meet customer and industry requirements. This position involves direct collaboration with customers and suppliers throughout the product development lifecycle. The Design Engineer will also be responsible for effectively transferring project knowledge and solutions across all relevant OEM accounts to ensure consistency and alignment. Key responsibilities include the application of engineering principles to the design and development of plastic fasteners, test fixtures, and custom test machines used in automotive applications., * Serve as project manager for assigned projects, coordinating efforts with the sales team and customers to meet specific technical and performance requirements. * Create preliminary concepts, detailed engineering drawings, and supporting technical documentation. * Develop innovative and patentable design concepts and configurations for automotive fasteners and assemblies. * Evaluate designs for feasibility, manufacturability, and functional performance. * Conduct research and evaluate alternative engineering approaches to enhance product performance and meet evolving customer needs. * Compare and analyze design alternatives to identify optimal solutions, collaborating with the Innovation team as needed to support product development initiatives. * Perform functional and validation testing to ensure product reliability and compliance. * Communicate with suppliers regarding material specifications and technical requirements. * Prepare and submit patent applications for novel product designs. * Benchmark competitive products to identify opportunities for differentiation and improvement. * Support broader engineering and business objectives through additional tasks as assigned.