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Director Manufacturing Engineering Jobs in Illinois

Caterpillar

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Decatur, IL · On-site

$128K - $192K/yr

Direct manufacturing engineering scope across assembly and manufacturing processing, cost estimating, systems planning, plant layout, standards, gaging/checking equipment, tooling, and work standards

Raynor Mfg. Co.

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Dixon, IL

$104K - $129K/yr

Lead the manufacturing engineering team in supporting shop floor operations, capital projects, new ... Direct start-up activities for new and revised manufacturing lines, debug processes, improve ...

System One

Manufacturing Engineering

Cary, IL · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

Manufacturing Engineering Location: Cary, Illinois Type: Contract Compensation: $45.00 - $51.00 per ... direct impact on operational performance and product quality. Responsibilities * Support ...

Raynor

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Dixon, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

Lead the manufacturing engineering team in supporting shop floor operations, capital projects, new ... Direct start-up activities for new and revised manufacturing lines, debug processes, improve ...

Raynor

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Dixon, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

Lead the manufacturing engineering team in supporting shop floor operations, capital projects, new ... Direct start-up activities for new and revised manufacturing lines, debug processes, improve ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsManufacturing Engineering JobsDirector Manufacturing Engineering JobsDirector Manufacturing Engineering Jobs in Illinois

Director Manufacturing Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$70.7K

$188.7K

$246.1K

How much do director manufacturing engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for director manufacturing engineering in Illinois is $188,678.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $137,100.00 and $245,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of manufacturing engineering do?

A Director of Manufacturing Engineering oversees the design, implementation, and improvement of manufacturing processes within an organization. They lead teams of engineers, manage projects, and collaborate with other departments to ensure efficient production, quality standards, and cost-effectiveness. Their responsibilities often include strategic planning, process optimization, technology integration, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. This leadership role is critical in driving innovation and maintaining competitive manufacturing operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of manufacturing engineering?

To thrive as a Director of Manufacturing Engineering, you need deep expertise in manufacturing processes, engineering management, and process optimization, usually supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering and significant leadership experience. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, lean manufacturing methodologies, Six Sigma certifications, and advanced manufacturing technologies is typically required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills help drive cross-functional teams and foster innovation. These capabilities are vital for ensuring operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and continuous improvement in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of manufacturing engineering and how can they be addressed?

A Director of Manufacturing Engineering often encounters challenges such as integrating new technologies, scaling production efficiently, and managing cross-functional teams. Balancing cost, quality, and speed while implementing process improvements requires strong project management and communication skills. Proactively fostering collaboration between engineering, operations, and quality teams helps address issues early and ensures alignment with organizational goals. Staying updated on industry advancements and investing in team development are also key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Director Manufacturing Engineering vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectDirector Manufacturing EngineeringManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with leadership experienceBachelor's in Engineering or related field, entry to mid-level
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, team leadership, cross-department collaborationHands-on production, process improvement, equipment troubleshooting
Industry UsageOversees manufacturing operations, sets long-term goalsExecutes manufacturing processes, supports production teams

The main difference between a Director Manufacturing Engineering and a Manufacturing Engineer lies in scope and responsibility. The director focuses on strategic planning, leadership, and overseeing multiple teams, while the manufacturing engineer handles day-to-day process improvements and technical tasks. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but they operate at different levels of management and technical involvement.

How much does a director manufacturing engineering make in the US?

A Director of Manufacturing Engineering in the US typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, with total compensation often including bonuses and benefits. Salaries vary based on industry, company size, location, and experience, and the role usually requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and project management skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Illinois?

For Director Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Director Manufacturing Engineering jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Director Manufacturing Engineering job openings:

Director Manufacturing Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Manufacturing Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $188,678 per year, or $90.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Caterpillar

Decatur, IL • On-site

$128K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 487 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Manufacturing
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Manufacturing Engineering Manager
Location: Decatur, IL
Travel: Up to 10%
Relocation Assistance: Available
Visa Sponsorship: Not Available
Job Summary
As the Manufacturing Engineering Manager in Decatur, IL, you will work closely with operations and product leaders to align automated manufacturing systems, manufacturing processes, and product engineering around shared product-group objectives. You will lead manufacturing engineering capability across assembly, Fabrication and machining processing while building a strong, high-performing engineering organization.
This is an on-site leadership role focused on improving manufacturing methods, equipment, systems, and operating infrastructure to deliver safety, quality, velocity, and cost results. The role plays a critical part in New Product Introduction (NPI) readiness and execution, ensuring smooth product launches and manufacturing scalability.
You will drive innovation through robotics, AI, machine learning, and 3D vision systems, deploying advanced automation across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling operations
Degree Requirement: Degree or equivalent experience desired.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and deploy automation systems including robots, AGVs, AMRs, and sensor-based solutions.
  • Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities by ensuring manufacturing readiness, process capability, tooling availability, and launch execution
  • Lead hiring, performance management, coaching, and development of manufacturing engineering teams supporting plant operations
  • Direct manufacturing engineering scope across assembly and manufacturing processing, cost estimating, systems planning, plant layout, standards, gaging/checking equipment, tooling, and work standards
  • Manage the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operating methods, equipment, systems, and manufacturing infrastructure
  • Drive adoption and sustainment of lean manufacturing principles across the organization
  • Lead capacity planning activities by translating demand signals into short-term production and resource requirements
  • Champion structured problem solving for complex manufacturing, process, and equipment issues

Required Skills
  • Lean Manufacturing: Extensive experience leading lean adoption, work-cell design, layout optimization, and performance measurement
  • Manufacturing Processes: Deep understanding of assembly and manufacturing processes, best practices, and standardization
  • Manufacturing Equipment: Expertise in equipment selection, qualification, integration, and infrastructure changes
  • Problem Solving & Decision Making: Proven ability to lead cross-functional problem solving using data-driven approaches

Preferred Skills
  • Experience programing PLCs and integrating industrial robots into manufacturing workflows
  • Experience leading manufacturing readiness for New Product Introduction (NPI) and product launches
  • Background in automated or advanced manufacturing systems
  • Strong knowledge of plant layout, tooling strategy, work standards, and manufacturing documentation/releasing
  • Experience with manufacturing capacity planning and demand-to-capacity translation

Summary Pay Range:
$128,470.00 - $192,710.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
August 13, 2026 - August 26, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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