Design Engineer 3 - Chicago, IL - USA

Job Summary

The Senior Design Engineer leads the design and development of complex Audio-Visual (AV) systems, ensuring solutions meet client requirements, technical standards, and project objectives. This role provides advanced engineering expertise, oversight of design quality, and guidance to junior team members, while collaborating with stakeholders to deliver scalable, high-performance AV solutions.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the design of complex AV systems, including signal flow, system architecture, control integration, and networked AV solutions.
• Develop and review advanced technical documentation (schematics, rack elevations, floor plans) using AutoCAD/Revit.
• Validate and approve bills of materials (BOM) for accuracy, performance, and cost alignment.
• Collaborate with clients, sales teams, architects, and project managers to define and refine system requirements.
• Conduct design reviews and enforce QA/QC standards across all deliverables.
• Provide technical leadership during project execution, supporting installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting.
• Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies related to system performance and integration.
• Mentor and guide Associate and Design Engineers, ensuring adherence to best practices.

Education and Certifications

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, IT, Electronics, or related field (or equivalent experience).

Competencies, Skills and Experiences

• Advanced knowledge of AV systems, signal flow, and integration methodologies.
• Expertise in unified communications platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams Rooms, Zoom Rooms).
• Experience with AV control systems (e.g., Crestron, Extron, AMX).
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills for complex system challenges.
• High attention to detail and commitment to design accuracy and quality.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead multiple projects and mentor junior engineers.

Decision Making Authority

• Makes independent design decisions on complex systems within project scope, standards, and budget constraints.
• Approves design deliverables, equipment selections, and system configurations.
• Recommends value engineering strategies and technical optimizations.
• Serves as a technical escalation point for design-related issues.
• Guides and validates the work of junior engineers to ensure quality and consistency.