Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Title: Principal Mechanical Design EngineerLocation: Chicago (Ravenswood area)Hire Type: Direct Hire OR Indefinite contract Compensation: $160k-170K yrlyBenefits:Comprehensive Benefit PackageMust have Skill Set: Strong Leadrship Skills About the OpportunityJoin a global leader in advanced product development and manufacturing solutions serving highly regulated industries. This organization partners with some of the world's most recognized brands to design, develop, and manufacture complex, high-performance products used worldwide.They are expanding capabilities and seeking an experienced Technical Leader / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to drive innovation, lead mechanical design efforts, and guide multidisciplinary teams through the full product development lifecycle.Position OverviewThis is a high-impact leadership role for a results-driven engineer with strong mechanical design expertise and proven success leading cross-functional teams. You will oversee multiple programs, solve complex engineering challenges, and ensure designs are optimized for performance, manufacturability, and scalability.This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in fast-paced product development environments and enjoys mentoring engineers while shaping next-generation products.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and coordinate mechanical design activities across one or more product development programsPartner with cross-functional and multi-site teams to achieve technical and business objectivesDefine priorities, timelines, and resource needs for engineering programsDevelop and communicate technical action plans internally and externallyIdentify risks early and recommend practical solutions balancing cost, timing, and requirementsDesign, build, and test prototypes to evaluate product performanceSolve complex technical challenges throughout development and commercializationApply Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principlesCollaborate with tooling, automation, and manufacturing teams for high-volume production readinessMentor and guide junior engineers and technical contributorsQualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering7+ years of product development or mechanical design engineering experienceStrong knowledge of regulated industry standards (FDA, ISO, or similar)Proficiency with CAD tools such as SolidWorks and related engineering softwareExperience leading technical aspects of product/device development programsBackground in high-volume manufacturing, injection molding, and automationPreferred SkillsStrong leadership, communication, and team collaboration skillsAbility to work effectively across multiple locations and functionsExperience in consulting or client-facing engineering environmentsBasic understanding of electronics and software integrationWhy Consider This Role?Lead high-visibility engineering programs with real business impactWork on innovative products used globallyCollaborate with world-class engineering and manufacturing teamsStrong growth opportunity within an expanding global organizationQualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.