Systems Design Engineer

Are you looking for something new? Holland Applied Technologies, located in Burr Ridge IL, is a leader in the sanitary process/equipment industry. We fabricate and distribute sanitary equipment and systems for the food, pharmaceutical, personal care, and beverage industries. This is a net-new position within our Engineering group.

The Systems Design Engineer will serve as the lead technical expert for system and process equipment design, translating customer specifications into manufacturable solutions through detailed calculations, drawings, design reviews, and engineering best practices. They will also coordinate closely with customers, internal teams, and manufacturing while managing documentation, proposals, BOM details, and engineering support to ensure projects are executed accurately and efficiently.

Job Responsibilities:

• Act as the subject matter expert on systems design for projects, including designing for manufacturability.
• Review customer specifications and P&ID to determine customer and scope requirements.
• Provide recommendations to customers on P&ID changes based on engineering and industry best practices.
• Design process equipment according to customer specifications and communicate issues in a timely manner with minimal oversight.
• Lead design reviews and effectively present design concepts.
• Create general arrangement (GA) drawings based on customer specifications, input and design feedback.
• Perform tipping calculations, heat transfer calculations, and deflection calculations to ensure project viability.
• Assemble and provide isometric drawings with weld maps, frame drawings, and conduit drawings for shop use and assembly.
• Specify non tagged BOM materials such as pneumatic fittings, conduit/wireway/cord set lengths needed for the design, and enter them into the ERP system.
• Function as a technical liaison with the shop to ensure manufacturing and component assembly align with design intent.
• Update as-built documentation at the completion of the project.
• Perform proper archiving and maintenance of design documents in the engineering vault system.
• Participate in detailed job proposals to account for material, labor, and engineering costs.
• Support other engineering team members with design questions and reviews as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Expert-level knowledge of AutoCAD and 3D modeling software.
• Ability to create and analyze P&IDs and determine design constraints or opportunities for improvement.
• Strong knowledge of mills, lathes, fabrication, and welding practices to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability.
• Strong understanding of materials science, including stainless steel, plastics, and carbon steel.
• Ability to make rapid design changes while maintaining high design quality.
• Ability to work closely with engineering, shop personnel, and clients to support efficient design processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Exceptional time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while completing work within assigned timeframes.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization.
• Positive mindset and a willingness to take on challenging design tasks.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Chemical Engineering required. Master's degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in equipment design, preferably in the Biopharma industry.
• We value practical experience. Applicants with strong relevant experience will be considered even if they do not meet the formal degree requirement.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 15 lbs. occasionally

Pay & Benefits:
The expected salary range for this role is $80,000 - $115,000 annually. Please note salaries are based upon factors including candidate skills, experience and qualifications, education, certifications, as well as market and business considerations. The range listed is just one component of our total compensation package for employees. The Company also offers 401k with matching employer contributions along with a discretionary profit-sharing benefit to eligible employees. This position is also bonus eligible, which is based on company targets as well as individual performance targets.


Other factors include the following benefits: Medical insurance is available for full time employees and their dependents through Blue Cross Blue Shield. There are various options available including HSA and PPO plans. Similarly, dental, vision, and disability coverages are also available. The company provides full time employees with life insurance and offers employees the ability to purchase additional voluntary supplemental insurance as well.