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Downstream Process Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

BorgWarner

Gantry Tech

Bellwood, IL · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

Responsible for identifying, correcting, and communicating various up/downstream process issues that reduce process output or impact quality. * Manage the repair of all conveyor components and store ...

AK Steel

Process Control Engineer

Burns Harbor, IN

... downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. We offer an excellent total compensation ... process, please send an e-mail tocareers@clevelandcliffs.comor call 1-(312) 899-3097 and let us ...

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Job Duties/Responsibilities: • Conduct field and technical evaluations of existing process units • Perform calculations, develop PFDs and P&IDs, provide design documentation for downstream ...

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Conduct field and technical evaluations of existing process units Perform calculations, develop PFDs and P&IDs, provide design documentation for downstream engineering disciplines, develop equipment ...

Brindley Engineering

Staff Process Engineer

Lisle, IL

$110K - $150K/yr

... downstream engineering disciplines, develop equipment specifications, compile scope of work ... Knowledge of process simulation software (eg Aspen Plus, HYSYS) preferred * Management: Experience ...

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Conduct field and technical evaluations of existing process units Perform calculations, develop PFDs and P&IDs, provide design documentation for downstream engineering disciplines, develop equipment ...

BorgWarner, Inc.

Gantry Tech

Bellwood, IL · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

Responsible for identifying, correcting, and communicating various up/downstream process issues that reduce process output or impact quality. * Manage the repair of all conveyor components and store ...

BorgWarner

Gantry Tech

Bellwood, IL · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

Responsible for identifying, correcting, and communicating various up/downstream process issues that reduce process output or impact quality. * Manage the repair of all conveyor components and store ...

Brindley Engineering

Staff Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Lead field and technical evaluations of existing process units Direct and perform calculations, develop PFDs and P&IDs, provide design documentation for downstream engineering disciplines, develop ...

Morningstar, Inc.

Global Process Owner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$156K - $170K/yr

Collaborate with other functions, upstream and downstream, to align and leverage cross-process opportunities with a focus on enhancing effectiveness and efficiency. Act as a key stakeholder to foster ...

Brindley Engineering

Staff Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Lead field and technical evaluations of existing process units Direct and perform calculations, develop PFDs and P&IDs, provide design documentation for downstream engineering disciplines, develop ...

Brindley Engineering

Staff Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

... downstream engineering disciplines, develop equipment specifications, compile scope of work ... Knowledge of process simulation software (eg Aspen Plus, HYSYS) preferred • Management:

Brindley Engineering

Lead Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

... downstream engineering disciplines, develop equipment specifications, compile scope of work ... Advance technical knowledge of refinery and chemical process unit operations and licensed ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDownstream Process JobsDownstream Process Jobs in Chicago, IL

Downstream Process information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do downstream process jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream process in Chicago, IL is $25.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $28.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a downstream process?

A Downstream Process refers to the series of steps involved in the purification and recovery of biological products, such as proteins, enzymes, or antibodies, after they have been produced by microorganisms or cells during fermentation or cell culture. It typically includes cell separation, product isolation, purification, and polishing to achieve the desired product quality and purity. Downstream processing is crucial for ensuring that biopharmaceutical products meet regulatory and safety standards before they reach the market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a downstream process engineer?

To thrive as a Downstream Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or biochemical engineering, knowledge of purification techniques, and typically a relevant degree. Familiarity with process control systems, chromatography, filtration technologies, and GMP compliance, as well as certifications like Six Sigma, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and address complex production challenges. These skills ensure efficient, high-quality product recovery and compliance with industry standards in biomanufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in downstream process roles?

Professionals in downstream process roles often encounter challenges such as optimizing purification steps to maximize yield and product purity while minimizing costs and processing time. They must also troubleshoot issues related to equipment performance, scalability, and regulatory compliance, especially when transitioning from lab-scale to large-scale production. Collaboration with upstream teams, quality assurance, and engineering is critical to address these challenges and ensure a smooth workflow. Staying current with technological advances and regulatory requirements also plays a significant role in day-to-day success.

What is the difference between Downstream Process vs Upstream Process?

AspectDownstream ProcessUpstream Process
PurposePurifies and isolates the target product from the mixtureProduces the initial product, such as cell culture or fermentation
ActivitiesFiltration, chromatography, centrifugation, purificationCell growth, fermentation, media preparation
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, bioprocessing facilitiesBioreactors, fermentation tanks, labs
Required SkillsBioprocessing techniques, chromatography, filtrationMicrobiology, cell culture, fermentation technology

Downstream Process focuses on purifying the product, while Upstream Process involves producing the raw material. Both are essential steps in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, often working sequentially to ensure high-quality product output.

What are popular job titles related to Downstream Process jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Downstream Process jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Downstream Process jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Downstream Process jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Downstream Process jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Downstream Process job openings:

Downstream Process jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Process job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,866 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Extrusion Process Engineer

MRINetwork Jobs

Naperville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 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%