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Associate Process Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Cooley LLP

Senior Legal Process Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $138K/yr

To that end, under the direction of the Associate Director, Legal Practice Engineering, the Legal Process Engineer will play a critical role at the intersection of legal domain expertise, process ...

Cooley

Senior Legal Process Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $138K/yr

To that end, under the direction of the Associate Director, Legal Practice Engineering, the Legal Process Engineer will play a critical role at the intersection of legal domain expertise, process ...

Praxair

CO2 OES Process Engineer

Burr Ridge, IL

$88K - $130K/yr

The individual must have the ability to work with a variety of internal customers and associates as ... Qualifications: * BS in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering * 1 years of CO2 Process Eng ...

Aisin Corporation

Process Launch Engineer

Marion, IL · On-site

A Manufacturing Process Launch Engineer manages new product/process introductions and changes ... OR • An associate's degree with minimum 3-5 years' experience in an engineering related role in ...

Career Site

Process Launch Engineer

Marion, IL · On-site

A Manufacturing Process Launch Engineer manages new product/process introductions and changes ... OR An associate's degree with minimum 3-5 years' experience in an engineering related role in the ...

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All JobsAssociate Process Engineer JobsAssociate Process Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Associate Process Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$40.2K

$80.1K

$127.9K

How much do associate process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate process engineer in Illinois is $80,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $92,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or mechanical engineering, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (like Aspen Plus or HYSYS), data analysis tools, and knowledge of industry standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot process issues. These skills ensure efficient process optimization, safety, and continuous improvement in manufacturing or production environments.

What jobs pay 70k a year with an associate's degree?

An Associate Process Engineer can earn around $70,000 annually, especially with experience and relevant skills in process optimization, quality control, and manufacturing environments. Other roles such as industrial technician, manufacturing supervisor, or quality engineer also offer similar salaries for those with an associate's degree and technical training.

What does an Associate Process Engineer do?

An Associate Process Engineer assists in designing, optimizing, and troubleshooting manufacturing processes within industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or food production. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to improve efficiency, ensure product quality, and maintain safety standards. Their responsibilities often include data collection, process analysis, and supporting the implementation of new technologies or equipment. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience and is a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, and software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and sometimes certifications like PE or PMP, along with working in high-demand industries or managerial capacities.

What is an associate process engineer?

An associate process engineer is an entry-level or junior engineer responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing or industrial processes. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, utilize process simulation tools, and may require knowledge of quality control and safety standards.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership roles or executive responsibilities.

How does an Associate Process Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

As an Associate Process Engineer, you'll work closely with cross-functional teams such as production, quality assurance, maintenance, and safety. Your role often involves gathering input from operators, coordinating with quality teams to resolve issues, and collaborating with senior engineers on process improvements. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, as you'll be expected to provide technical support, participate in meetings, and help implement solutions that align with overall operational goals. This collaborative environment not only enhances your technical skills but also helps you build strong professional relationships across the organization.

What is the difference between Associate Process Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectAssociate Process EngineerProcess Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's degree in engineering; often more experience or certifications required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting process development and optimization in manufacturing or chemical plantsMore independent roles, overseeing process improvements and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, chemical, and pharmaceutical industriesUsed across similar industries, often with more responsibility

The main difference between an Associate Process Engineer and a Process Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on supporting process tasks, while the Process Engineer has more independence and oversees process improvements. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Process Engineer usually has more experience or certifications. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right position for their career stage and goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Process Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Associate Process Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Process Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Process Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Associate Process Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Associate Process Engineer job openings:
Associate Process Engineer jobs near you
Extrusion Process Engineer

Extrusion Process Engineer

Management Recruiters of Tallahassee

Naperville, IL

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

About the Opportunity

MRT is supporting a well-established and rapidly growing plastics manufacturer near Naperville, Illinois. The company is seeking a dedicated Extrusion Process Engineer. This is a ground-floor opportunity to support and build a process engineering function from scratch. What's needed now is the right engineer to come in, assess the operation, identify opportunities, and help drive the business to the next level.

This role offers high visibility, genuine autonomy, and a direct line to leadership. The right candidate will not be inheriting a finished function - they will be building one.

What You'll Be Responsible For

  • Support and maintain all extrusion processes, associates, and equipment across a 24-hour operation
  • Perform changeovers, color changes, tooling setups, downstream startups, and processing adjustments
  • Monitor and adjust SOCs and process controls; document changes and communicate to supervisors and quality teams
  • Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all processes from the ground up
  • Lead problem-solving workshops and Kaizen events using 5 Why, Fishbone, and A3 methodologies
  • Conduct first article and in-process checks to validate and sustain quality controls
  • Develop audit systems to identify and address process and tooling variances
  • Monitor daily regrind percentages and develop actions to reduce generation and material loss
  • Participate in and coordinate preventive maintenance on tooling and equipment
  • Develop and maintain spare tooling and equipment upgrade matrices
  • Lead annual and new-hire training to build cross-functional team capabilities
  • Perform process qualification procedures (PQP) and develop new process standards
  • Maintain all tooling, run, and SOC records for lines, molds, and SKUs
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues to resolution and share knowledge across the team

    What We're Looking For

  • 3–5 years of extrusion processing experience
  • Hands-on, floor-level approach - this role requires presence on the production floor across all shifts as needed
  • Working knowledge of molds and tooling design and function
  • Familiarity with 5 Why, Fishbone, and A3 problem-solving tools
  • Basic SPC and quality documentation knowledge
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot equipment independently
  • Basic computer skills and ability to maintain accurate records and documentation
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in a manufacturing environment

    Preferred:

  • Associate's degree or higher in Engineering or related field; equivalent hands-on experience will be considered
  • Sheet extrusion experience
  • Regrind and/or pelletizing experience
  • Spanish language skills (a plus, not required)
  • Experience developing SOPs in an environment where they didn't previously exist

    Why This Role Stands Out

  • Your impact will be immediate and visible
  • PE-backed company with significant resources, growth trajectory, and continued investment
  • Collaborative, down-to-earth leadership team - high trust
  • Real career runway as the company scales and formalizes its operations
  • Monday through Friday schedule with standard business hours
  • Bonus eligible at 5%