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Brake Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience setting up and operating press brake machinery to produce high-quality metal components according to engineering drawings and specifications. This ...

Press Brake Operator

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

We are seeking a skilled Press Brake Operator with experience operating Amada press brake machines ... The ideal candidate will be responsible for setup, programming, and operation of CNC press brakes ...

Press Brake Operator

Effingham, IL · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Produces a variety of parts, all of which must meet the dimensional specifications of the mechanical engineered drawings. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES * Operate the press brake and other machinery used ...

Press Brake Operator

Galesburg, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Setup and operate computer programmable/controlled brake press machines * Must be able to plan and layout bending sequence, referring to drawings and blueprints * Bend products or assemblies of small ...

Be Seen First

Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings * Experience selecting, installing, and adjusting press brake tooling * Ability to perform first-piece, in-process, and ...

Be Seen First

Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings * Experience selecting, installing, and adjusting press brake tooling * Ability to perform first-piece, in-process, and ...

Brake Press Operator

Rockton, IL

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

... to latest engineering revision and then verifies part is made to print specifications. 6. Inspects part for any nonconformities including those of a cosmetic nature (i.e. scratches, dents ...

Our Hydraulic Press Brake Machine Operators operate a hydraulic press brake machine to produce high ... Meyer Utility Structures is an industry leader in the engineering design and fabrication of ...

Minimum of 5 years of experience supervising employees. * 5-10 years of experience setting up and programming press brake equipment. Preferred: * Experience in metal fabrication. Language ...

Press Brake Lead

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience supervising employees. * 5-10 years of experience setting up and programming press brake equipment. Preferred: * Experience in metal fabrication. Language ...

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Brake Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$20.6K

$63.4K

$136.4K

How much do brake engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for brake engineer in Illinois is $63,361.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,905.00 and $87,747.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Brake Engineers face when collaborating with cross-functional teams during vehicle development?

Brake Engineers often work closely with design, manufacturing, and testing teams, which can present challenges in aligning performance goals with practical constraints. For example, balancing braking performance with weight, cost, and manufacturability requires effective communication and compromise. Additionally, coordinating timelines and integrating feedback from multiple stakeholders is crucial to ensure the final product meets safety and regulatory standards. Building strong relationships and maintaining clear documentation can help overcome these common hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Brake Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Brake Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, automotive systems, and materials science, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and industry standards such as ISO/TS 16949 is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex design challenges. These skills ensure the development of safe, high-performing braking systems that meet rigorous safety and quality standards in the automotive industry.

What is the difference between Brake Engineer vs Brake Technician?

AspectBrake EngineerBrake Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive EngineeringHigh school diploma or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D facilities, manufacturing plantsRepair shops, maintenance facilities, on-site vehicle service
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, heavy machinery manufacturingAutomotive repair, service centers, fleet maintenance

Brake Engineers focus on designing and developing braking systems, requiring engineering degrees and working in labs or design environments. Brake Technicians perform maintenance and repairs, working directly on vehicles in repair shops. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but differ in education, responsibilities, and work settings.

What does a Brake Engineer do?

A Brake Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and improving braking systems for vehicles such as cars, trucks, and trains. They work to ensure that braking systems are safe, reliable, and meet regulatory standards. Brake Engineers collaborate with other automotive engineers to integrate braking systems with other vehicle components, conduct simulations, analyze test data, and troubleshoot issues. Their work is critical in enhancing vehicle safety and performance.
What are popular job titles related to Brake Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Brake Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Brake Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Brake Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Brake Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,361 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Brake Press Operator

Brake Press Operator

W3Global Inc.

Crete, IL

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Brake Press Operator to join our manufacturing team in University Park, IL. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience setting up and operating press brake machinery to produce high-quality metal components according to engineering drawings and specifications. This role requires strong attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment.

This is a full-time, first-shift position consisting of four 10-hour workdays (Monday through Thursday), with frequent overtime available on Fridays.

Key Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal components.

  • Perform forming, stamping, bumping, and staking operations according to production requirements.

  • Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings.

  • Select appropriate tooling and make machine adjustments to ensure accurate production.

  • Inspect finished parts using measuring tools to verify dimensional accuracy and quality standards.

  • Monitor machine performance and troubleshoot minor operational issues.

  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.

  • Follow company safety procedures and quality control standards.

  • Collaborate with supervisors and team members to meet daily production goals.

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 4 years of experience operating and setting up press brake machines.

  • Strong understanding of metal fabrication and forming processes.

  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.

  • Experience using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and tape measures.

  • Ability to lift materials and stand for extended periods throughout the shift.

  • Reliable transportation and ability to commute to University Park, IL.

  • Availability to work day shift and overtime as needed.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with CNC Press Brake Programming.

  • Familiarity with CNC-controlled fabrication equipment.

  • Experience working in a high-volume manufacturing environment.

Schedule
  • Day Shift

  • Monday - Thursday (4 x 10-hour shifts)

  • Overtime frequently available on Fridays


W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006