Design Engineer

We’re hiring a Design Engineer to join County Prestress in Westmont, IL.

Job Summary:The Design Engineer (Precast Concrete) supports projects from initial design through fabrication and erection. This position focuses on structural calculations, shop drawings, and code‑compliant design, while partnering closely with sales, project management, and production teams.
You will serve as a technical resource for internal teams and external stakeholders, help resolve design and field challenges, and contribute to improving engineering processes, tools, and best practices in precast construction.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:

Manage projects from initial design or sales handoff through construction
Design structural frames, precast components, and connections for standardized and moderately complex buildings
Prepare, review, and seal structural calculations and shop drawings
Ensure compliance with ACI, PCI, IBC, and applicable state/local codes
Coordinate with Project Managers and Project Coordinators to deliver accurate erection and production drawings
Act as a technical liaison for contractors, architects, owners, and erectors
Review erection drawings and production piece drawings for accuracy and constructability
Support sales and estimating by providing engineering input and cost‑effective design solutions
Visit jobsites and precast production facilities to understand fabrication and erection processes
Resolve field, production, and design issues with practical, timely solutions
Identify and implement cost‑saving and quality improvement opportunities
Review back charges and change orders to prevent recurring issues
Mentor junior engineers and review work from designers and outside consultants
Develop or improve engineering tools, software, and calculation methods
Stay current with precast/prestressed concrete technology and industry standards

COUNTY Core Competencies: The expected behaviors of all COUNTY team members that align with Our Values and Our Commitments:

Integrity & Organizational Awareness
Customer First Focus
Results Driven Orientation
Teamwork, Safety & Collaboration
Problem Solving & Decision Making
Creativity & Innovation

Job-Based Competencies:

Design & Innovation
Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving
Project Management
Professional Skills
Sales and Business Development

Experience & Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering
Engineer‑in‑Training (EIT) certification (required)
Licensed or ability to obtain Illinois Structural Engineer (SE) licensure
Minimum 1 years of experience as a precast design engineer or in building structural design
Experience with precast or prestressed concrete systems
Proficiency with structural analysis and design software
Strong communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills

Preferred Experience

Direct experience with precast concrete design and detailing
Familiarity with PCI standards and precast fabrication
Experience supporting estimating and sales engineering

Work Environment:
This role includes time in the office, production facilities, and active construction sites. Exposure may include noise, vibration, moving mechanical parts, airborne particles, and variable weather conditions typical of construction environments.

Physical & Work Expectations:
An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, or handling materials/equipment.
Occasional climbing, kneeling, crawling, or lifting/moving up to 25 pounds.
Ability to concentrate, follow detailed instructions, communicate effectively, and safely perform job duties.
May require the operation of specific tools, equipment, or vehicles associated with the position.