Illinois Tool Works

NPD Senior Engineer - Mechanical Design

Illinois Tool Works • $100K — $140K *
Lake Forest, IL 60045In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
8 - 10 years of experience
1 month ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS in Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering; master's preferred
  • 8+ years in mechanical design; 2+ years in product development
  • Experience in stage-based product development frameworks
  • Proficient in CAD tools (preferably Pro/Engineer CREO-11)
  • Familiar with PLM systems (Windchill)
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills for electro-mechanical equipment
  • Experience in design reviews, DFMEA, PFMEA, and root cause analysis
  • Project management experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

  • Lead mechanical design execution for product development programs
  • Own concept development and detailed designs using 3D CAD
  • Drive critical design analyses to proactively identify risks
  • Ensure integration and documentation of electro-mechanical devices
  • Coordinate prototype builds and validate against quality standards
  • Implement design improvements and track corrective actions
  • Support manufacturing process selection and supplier engagement
  • Partner closely with cross-functional teams to assess project scope.

Benefits

  • Standard office and lab environment
  • Occasional travel to suppliers or testing facilities
  • Support for professional development and extended learning.
Full Job Description
Job Description:

Position Summary

The NPD Senior Mechanical Design Engineer plays a key role in driving mechanical design execution across one or more new product development programs, with responsibility for the design and development of cordless and pneumatic power fastening tools primarily used in wood and concrete applications. This position emphasizes deep hands-on technical contribution and problem-solving skills while progressively taking ownership of project-level decision-making, design direction, and coordination across functions. The role supports the delivery of robust, high-quality, and manufacturable mechanical solutions, while developing leadership capability through increasing responsibility for project leadership and mentoring. The ideal candidate brings strong mechanical design expertise, a proactive ownership mindset, demonstrated technical excellence and cross-functional influence.

Core Responsibilities

  • Leads project-level mechanical design execution, leveraging strong technical judgment and project planning skills to define scope, coordinate task-level resources, and deliver committed program objectives on time and within established constraints.
  • Owns concept development and detailed design activities, translating customer and market inputs into viable mechanical concepts, developing and refining designs in 3D CAD, and iterating based on internal and external feedback to achieve performance, cost, and schedule goals.
  • Performs and drives critical design analyses such as DFMEA, Design of Experiments, Tolerance Stack-ups, and serviceability assessments to proactively identify risks and ensure alignment with product requirements and specifications.
  • Takes responsibility for the integrated mechanical design of electro-mechanical devices and subsystems used in power fastening systems, ensuring proper layout, interface definition, design integration, validation, and documentation.
  • Coordinates prototype builds and validation activities, overseeing the production of prototypes and test units and supporting transition to manufacturing while ensuring quality standards, delivery schedules, and cost targets are met.
  • Identifies, recommends, and implements design improvements, tracking corrective actions to resolve failures, enhance reliability, and prevent recurrence of product or system malfunctions.
  • Supports manufacturing process selection and supplier engagement, contributing to make/buy decisions and process definition to deliver robust, cost-effective products that meet market needs.
  • Executes complex assignments with increasing autonomy, demonstrating initiative, sound engineering judgment, and ownership while progressively expanding influence and leadership within the project team.
  • Partners closely with cross-functional teams including marketing, purchasing, manufacturing, quality, and suppliers to define project scope, assess cost targets, and ensure manufacturing feasibility throughout development.


Qualifications

  • BS in Mechanical / Mechatronics Engineering or related field (master's Preferred)
  • 8+ years of relevant product mechanical - design, including 2+ years in product development
  • Demonstrated experience working within structured, stage-based product development frameworks,
  • Proficiency in CAD Design/Modeling Tools (preferred Pro/Engineer CREO-11)
  • Familiarity with PLM systems (Windchill) and version control.
  • Strong understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools.
  • Demonstrated design capability, problem solving skills and ability to understand and trouble shoot electro-mechanical equipment.
  • Demonstrated experience of structured problem-solving and continuous improvement methodologies, including A3's Problem Solving, 8D, Fishbone (Ishikawa), cause-and-effect diagrams & 5 Why's.
  • Experience in Leading design reviews, DFMEA, PFMEA, DVP&R, and root cause analysis sessions.
  • Strong understanding of modeling and simulation tools capabilities (FEA, CFD)
  • Advanced understanding of statistical tools such as FRD, DOE, COV, SPC, Pareto Analysis, etc.
  • Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and mechanical analysis including, plastic injection, stamping, aluminum, casting, machining, etc.
  • Experience in cross-functional collaboration to industrialize new products.
  • Experience with prototyping, testing, and production tooling.
  • Project management experience is a plus.
  • Domestic and International travel: 10-15%


Working Conditions
  • Standard office and lab environment.
  • Occasional travel to suppliers, manufacturing sites, or testing facilities.


Compensation Information:

The salary range for this position is $100,000- $140,000 annually plus performance incentive. Please note that this salary information serves as a general guideline. The company considers various factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education and training, key skills, as well as market and business considerations.

About Illinois Tool Works

ITW is an industrial manufacturing company that specializes in the fields of industrial machinery, engineering, operations, sales, marketing, finance, and accounting. It's in deep-sea oil rigs, aerospace technology, bridges and wind turbines, healthcare, the spaces in which they live and work, the cars they drive, and the mobile devices they rely on. It was founded in 1912 and headquartered in Glenview Nas, Illinois.

Illinois Tool Works Careers

Join the dynamic team at Illinois Tool Works (ITW), a global leader in diversified manufacturing, where innovation and excellence drive us forward. ITW offers unparalleled job opportunities, fostering a culture of growth and leadership in the industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Illinois Tool Works, you will be part of a professional community that thrives on creativity and innovation. Our employees are equipped with the skills needed to succeed and are provided with endless opportunities for professional growth. Engage in work that matters, with projects that transform industries and enhance futures.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a seasoned professional position, ITW offers a range of career paths across various departments. Our team benefits from a supportive and diverse working environment where every member’s contribution is valued.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation leads to revolutionary solutions in industries worldwide. At ITW, you will work alongside industry experts to develop new ideas and strategies that keep us at the forefront of technological advancements. Your career at ITW will be marked by a continuous journey of growth and leadership.

Develop Your Skills

With ITW’s commitment to professional development and diversity training, you will enhance your skills through targeted training programs and workshops. These opportunities not only boost your career but also ensure you stay competitive in the job market.

Be Part of Our Culture

ITW is dedicated to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, encourages innovation, and fosters leadership. Our team is our greatest asset, and we believe in providing them with the benefits and resources they need to succeed both professionally and personally.

Networking and Professional Growth

Expand your professional network through ITW’s global presence and collaborative work environment. Engage with professionals across different sectors, gaining insights that can lead to significant career advancements. Our networking events and professional groups help you connect with key industry leaders and peers.

Join Our Team

Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on the ITW Careers page. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, company news, and career tips by following our careers blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Explore the opportunities at Illinois Tool Works today and discover how your expertise can help shape the future of our company and the industries we serve. Join us in our mission to achieve excellence through innovation and leadership.
Learn more about Illinois Tool Works
Size
45,000 employees
Market Cap
$68.1 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
Net Income
$2.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+1.2%
Revenue
$12.5 billion
NASDAQ
ITW
* Ladders Estimates

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