Mechanical Engineer - Entry Level
This entry-level Mechanical Engineer role supports the design-to-production process by preparing engineering documentation, collaborating with manufacturing teams, and utilizing engineering software to evaluate designs. The position involves assisting with product development, design reviews, and continuous improvement projects while providing technical guidance across teams. It offers an opportunity to develop skills in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with a focus on quality and cross-functional collaboration.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Industrial / Manufacturing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Support product development and take designs from concept to production in a hands-on role that partners closely with manufacturing and operations.
- Prepare and maintain engineering documentation, specifications, and drawings in accordance with quality standards.
- Collaborate with manufacturing, operations, and quality teams to resolve technical issues and implement process improvements.
- Use CAD and other engineering tools to evaluate and validate designs, run basic simulations, and support design reviews.
- Assist with engineering calculations, tolerance analysis, material selection, and design for manufacturability.
- Investigate product performance issues, recommend corrective actions, and follow through on verification activities.
- Support continuous improvement projects and incremental product enhancements.
- Communicate technical findings clearly to internal teams and external vendors/stakeholders.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (minimum 3.0 GPA preferred).
- Internship, co-op, or relevant hands-on engineering experience preferred — entry-level candidates with strong academic performance and practical exposure encouraged to apply.
- Experience with CAD/design software (e.g., SolidWorks, Solid Edge, Creo) and common business applications.
- Familiarity with product design concepts, manufacturing processes (fabrication, machining), and design validation tools is a plus.
- Basic understanding of electrical and mechanical systems helpful.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project-management skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication; comfortable working cross-functionally.
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to drive continuous improvement.
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary range: $60,000–$75,000 per year.
- 4.5% 401(k) match.
- Health, dental, and vision benefits.
- PTO (based on experience) and opportunities for tuition reimbursement.
- Entry-level role with strong exposure to manufacturing and product-development career paths.
Role Details
- Employment type: Full time (range may include contract opportunities)
- Location: Itasca, IL (on-site / manufacturing environment)
- Industry: Industrial / Manufacturing
- Position level: Entry-level / Early career — ideal for recent grads or candidates with internship/co-op experience
Why Candidates Like This Role
- Rapid exposure to hands-on product development and manufacturing processes.
- Opportunity to build CAD, simulation, and validation skills while working cross-functionally.
- Clear benefits package and professional development support (tuition reimbursement).
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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