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Associate Engineer Jobs in Dunlap, IL (NOW HIRING)

... engineering and systems integration. Our tightly integrated offerings are tailored to each clients ... PACKAGING/ WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE Location: Pekin, IL 61554 Shift: General shift Pay: $12-15/hr ...

Product Service Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

Associate's degree with 7+ years of experience or Master's degree with approximately 1 year of ... Experience working with engineering, technical, or service organizations. * Comfortable using ...

Manufacturing Engineer Leader

Washington, IL · On-site

$92.62 - $138.92/hr

Associate's degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience in Engineering or a technical field or * Minimum of 7 years of experience in Engineering or technical field. * The ability to travel and be ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Dunlap, IL salary details

$41.1K

$81.8K

$130.7K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Dunlap, IL is $81,804.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,800.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate engineer?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What are some typical challenges associate engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

How much does an associate engineer get paid?

An associate engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities.

What can I do with an associate engineer's degree in engineering?

An associate engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles such as technician, assistant engineer, or project support staff. These positions often involve tasks like drafting, testing, data analysis, and using tools like CAD software, with opportunities for on-the-job training and certification to advance in engineering fields.

What is the salary of an associate engineer?

The salary of an associate engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on factors such as industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Dunlap, IL?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Dunlap, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Dunlap, IL?

For Associate Engineer jobs in Dunlap, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Dunlap, IL are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities near Dunlap, IL with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Dunlap, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,804 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Chillicothe, IL

$60K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry to Experienced Level candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Manufacturing Engineer

The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff supporting manufacturing operations associated with diesel and natural gas engines, powertrain systems, axles, drives, gears, torque converters, cast components, and off-highway construction and mining equipment. Work may include manufacturing process development, factory support, quality improvement, production readiness, APQP activities, supplier collaboration, and continuous improvement initiatives. The work will be highly collaborative with engineering, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and supplier teams.

Responsibilities

  • Support manufacturing and assembly operations for engines, powertrain systems, cast components, and off-highway equipment.
  • Participate in manufacturing process development, process improvement, and production readiness activities.
  • Support new product introduction and product launch activities.
  • Work with manufacturing, engineering, quality, and supplier teams to resolve technical issues impacting production.
  • Lead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions to improve quality, safety, delivery, and cost.
  • Support APQP activities, PFMEAs, control plans, and manufacturing validation efforts.
  • Analyze manufacturing data and identify opportunities for process improvements and waste reduction.
  • Support factory operations through troubleshooting and resolution of production concerns.
  • Collaborate with suppliers to improve component quality, manufacturability, and delivery performance.
  • Support quality improvement initiatives and product reliability activities.
  • Participate in continuous improvement projects using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Quality, Supplier Development, Operations, etc.) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project need (up to ~10%).

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience in manufacturing, production, process, or quality engineering.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing and assembly processes.
  • Experience solving production and quality issues.
  • Familiarity with APQP, PFMEA, control plans, and root cause analysis.
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to travel up to 10%.

Desired Experience

  • Experience with engines, powertrain systems, castings, or heavy equipment manufacturing.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
  • Experience supporting new product launches and production readiness activities.
  • Background working with suppliers to improve quality and performance.
  • Familiarity with quality tools such as SPC and Six Sigma.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
  • Self-motivated, organized, and detail-oriented.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $60,000-$95,000 commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Eden Prairie, MN, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly