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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Illinois

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing ...

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing ...

RFA Engineering

Quality Engineering Technician

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... A typical quality engineer has the ability to read and interpret blueprints, and evaluate product ...

RFA Engineering

Electrical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing ... Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field. * Entry level candidates and ...

RFA Engineering

Electrical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing ... Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field. * Entry level candidates and ...

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... global manufacturer headquartered in Cary, Illinois, with a 75+ year reputation for engineering ... We're looking for an Entry-Level CNC Machinist to join our manufacturing team. This is an excellent ...

Zentech Manufacturing I

Test Operator

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17/hr

PCB Manufacturing Tester (Entry-Level) Position Summary Zentech. is seeking a detail-oriented ... Work closely with production, quality, and engineering teams to support manufacturing goals.

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... global manufacturer headquartered in Cary, Illinois, with a 75+ year reputation for engineering ... We're looking for an Entry-Level CNC Machinist to join our manufacturing team. This is an excellent ...

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... global manufacturer headquartered in Cary, Illinois, with a 75+ year reputation for engineering ... We're looking for an Entry-Level CNC Machinist to join our manufacturing team. This is an excellent ...

Coilcraft

Entry-Level Machinist

Cary, IL

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... global manufacturer headquartered in Cary, Illinois, with a 75+ year reputation for engineering ... We're looking for an Entry-Level CNC Machinist to join our manufacturing team. This is an excellent ...

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All JobsManufacturing Engineer JobsEntry Level Manufacturing Engineer JobsEntry Level Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$30

$49

How much do entry level manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing engineer in Illinois is $30.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.54 and $33.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level manufacturing engineer do?

An Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes within a production facility. They work closely with senior engineers and production teams to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing operations. Typical tasks may include analyzing workflow, troubleshooting equipment issues, implementing process improvements, and supporting new product introductions. This role often involves hands-on problem solving and the use of engineering principles to ensure smooth and cost-effective manufacturing. Entry level engineers are also expected to learn company-specific processes and industry regulations.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering (usually mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing), strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and foundational knowledge of manufacturing processes. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and process improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma is highly valued. Effective communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and identifying process improvements. These skills and qualities are important because they enable engineers to optimize production efficiency, ensure product quality, and support continuous improvement in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level manufacturing engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level manufacturing engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, learning to troubleshoot equipment issues quickly, and understanding complex manufacturing processes. Balancing hands-on problem solving with documentation and process improvement tasks can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and are typically supported by mentorship from senior engineers and collaboration with cross-functional teams. As you gain experience, you'll become more confident in identifying inefficiencies and proposing solutions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, process improvement, and project planning in manufacturing settingsOperating machinery, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, engineering firms, production plantsFactories, production lines, manufacturing facilities

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineers focus on designing processes, improving efficiency, and supporting production planning, often requiring an engineering degree. Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in IL?

For Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,112 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

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-level to experienced 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.
Mechanical Engineer
The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff supporting the development, validation, manufacturing support, and continuous improvement of heavy equipment, engine, powertrain, and machine systems. Projects may include diesel and natural gas engines, axles, drives, gears, torque converters, cast components, and other systems used in off-highway construction and mining equipment. The work will be highly collaborative with engineering, manufacturing, validation, quality, suppliers, and factory operations teams.
Job Description
  • Participate in the design, development, and validation of mechanical systems and components used in heavy equipment and powertrain applications.
  • Support product development, product improvement, cost reduction, and product health initiatives.
  • Research and analyze engineering requirements, specifications, test results, and field issues to develop effective solutions.
  • Investigate product, component, and system failures and perform root cause analysis to identify corrective actions.
  • Support prototype, pilot, and production builds while working closely with manufacturing and operations teams.
  • Collaborate with validation engineers to support testing activities and ensure robust product performance.
  • Develop and evaluate design concepts for fabricated structures, mounting systems, castings, machined components, tube routings, hose routings, and other mechanical systems.
  • Support APQP activities and work with suppliers to ensure manufacturability and product quality requirements are achieved.
  • Participate in continuous product improvement and quality improvement projects.
  • Create and modify engineering documentation, 3-D models, drawings, and product structures using engineering software tools.
  • Support factory operations by troubleshooting production issues and implementing corrective actions.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Quality, Supplier Development, Validation, and Marketing) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer locations pending project needs (up to ~10%).

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • Exposure to manufacturing, operations, parts logistics, quality, or technology
  • Demonstrates a strong mechanical aptitude through work experience or hobbies.
  • Problem solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Must be a self-starter, good communication skills, able to thrive in a collaborative environment.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.

Desired Experience
  • Experience in a production environment working with cross functional teams.
  • Experience with manufacturing, fabrication, or assembly operations.
  • Database Management.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Salary Range: $70,000-$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 Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
#ZR
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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