Design Engineer
Job Description
Location:Chicago, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Salary: $65k-$70k
Sterling Engineering is looking for a Project Engineer for a leading manufacturer and repairer of railroad tank cars. This is a great opportunity to work with a company that has great benefits!
Job Duties:
- Coordinate all phases of design and manufacturing for rail industry products.
- Identify and assist with welding, fabrication, machining, and steel component processing improvements.
- Prepare technical documents such as blueprints, drawings, SOPs, and visual aids.
- Create models and 2D drawings using CAD software.
- Coordinate quoting, procurement, design, CNC programming, and product development.
- Focus on cost reduction and gross margin improvements.
- Provide technical support to Quality, Purchasing, and Production teams.
- Offer technical feedback to internal and external customers.
- Design manufacturing processes and products considering cost, user experience, and regulatory standards.
- Analyze data from prototype tests and create progress reports.
- Collaborate with Engineering and Management teams on design projects, ensuring compliance with SOPs, AAR, DOT, and FRA regulations
- Create models and drawings using CAD software, ensuring accuracy and quality.
- Construct prototypes and confirm designs with customers.
- Lead cost analysis for labor, material, and production quoting.
- Adhere to regulatory requirements (FRA, DOT, OSHA).
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering required.
- 5+ years of experience or internship in design or manufacturing engineering in a heavy industrial environment preferred.
- Lean manufacturing/continuous improvement experience preferred.
- In-depth knowledge of engineering design concepts.
- Familiar with welding processes, steel fabrication, and metal structure production.
- Proficient in CAD modeling, machine design, and design analysis (Solid Edge experience a plus).
- Strong documentation, presentation, and communication skills.
Meet Your Recruiter

Sabrina Herrera
Sabrina Herrera is a seasoned Technical Recruiter with a knack for establishing genuine connections with candidates and continuously expanding her expertise in various roles and industries. With one year of dedicated service at Sterling and an impressive 15-year journey in the recruiting arena, Sabrina has become a respected figure in talent acquisition.
As a Technical Recruiter, Sabrina's ability to build strong relationships with candidates sets her apart. She values the opportunity to understand each individual's unique strengths, aspirations, and career goals, ensuring she can guide them toward the most suitable and fulfilling opportunities.
Having spent 15 years in the recruiting domain, Sabrina's experience spans diverse industries and roles. She embraces the challenges of exploring new fields, consistently striving to expand her knowledge and expertise. Her dedication to continuous learning allows her to stay at the forefront of emerging trends and best practices in the recruitment landscape.
Sabrina advises fellow professionals to cultivate a curious mindset and actively seek new challenges and projects that push the boundaries of their abilities. Embracing the unknown and venturing into uncharted territories can lead to personal and professional growth, ultimately elevating one's effectiveness in the field of recruitment.