Entry-Level Mechanical Design Engineer – Sustaining Engineering

Company: New Star Lighting Location: On-site in Chicago, IL

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Company OverviewNew Star Lighting is a privately owned lighting manufacturer based in Chicago with over 30 years of industry experience. We design and manufacture high-quality, custom lighting solutions for healthcare, correctional, cleanroom, transportation, commercial, and other demanding environments.As our company continues to grow, we are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Mechanical Design Engineer to join our Sustaining Engineering team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build practical engineering skills while working with experienced engineers and learning how products are designed, improved, and manufactured.
Position OverviewThis position focuses on maintaining and improving existing lighting products through mechanical design updates, engineering change requests (ECRs), and accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) creation.
You will use SolidWorks to make design modifications, update engineering documentation, and help ensure customer orders can be manufactured accurately and on schedule. You will also work with departments across the company, including assembly, metal fabrication, purchasing, marketing, and sales, to provide timely and accurate technical information.
Previous lighting industry experience is not required. We are looking for someone with a solid technical foundation, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.
Key ResponsibilitiesSustaining Engineering: Update and improve existing product designs using SolidWorks, including modifying 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings.Engineering Change Requests (ECRs): Process engineering changes by updating designs, drawings, Bills of Materials, and related documentation.Bill of Materials (BOM) Management: Create and maintain accurate BOMs for customer orders to communicate required components and materials to manufacturing.Production Support: Assist assembly and metal fabrication teams with product questions, technical documentation, and design-related issues.Purchasing Support: Help identify required materials, verify component information, and evaluate potential material substitutions.Cross-Functional Support: Provide accurate product information to marketing, sales, quoting, and other internal departments.Engineering Documentation: Maintain organized and accurate product records, drawings, and other technical documentation.Continuous Improvement: Participate in projects that improve product quality, manufacturability, cost, and engineering processes.
QualificationsAssociate degree, bachelor's degree, technical diploma, or relevant experience in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Design, Drafting, or a related field. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.Basic experience with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.Familiarity with mechanical drawings, assemblies, and basic manufacturing concepts.Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.Good communication skills and a willingness to collaborate with different departments.A positive attitude, eagerness to learn, and openness to feedback.
Preferred, but not required:Experience with sheet metal design or fabrication.Familiarity with Bills of Materials, engineering change processes, or manufacturing documentation.Exposure to SolidWorks PDM, ERP systems, or Microsoft Excel.
You do not need to meet every preferred qualification to apply. We welcome candidates who are eager to develop their skills and grow with our engineering team.
What We Offer· Hands-on training and mentorship from experienced engineers.· Exposure to real-world product design and manufacturing.· Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.· Competitive salary.· Health, dental, and vision insurance.· Retirement savings plan.· Year-end performance bonus.
Additional RequirementsCandidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship. Candidates should live within 50 miles of Chicago and have reliable transportation. xzbcwsv New Star Lighting is an essential employer.