ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Just In Time Staffing LLC

Be Seen First

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Civil Engineering. * Strong ...

Freseniusglobal

Sr Manufacturing Engineer

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Provides manufacturing engineering leadership and mentoring to entry-level Manufacturing Engineers. * Understands and possesses a business acumen to prioritize workload to align with business goals.

Fresenius Kabi

Sr Manufacturing Engineer

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Provides manufacturing engineering leadership and mentoring to entry-level Manufacturing Engineers. * Understands and possesses a business acumen to prioritize workload to align with business goals.

TekPro

Mechanical Engineer

Itasca, IL · On-site

Mechanical / Manufacturing Engineer (Entry Level) Location: Itasca, IL Industry: Precision Metal Fabrication, Metal Stamping & Manufacturing Salary: 60-70k About the Opportunity We're partnering with ...

KEYENCE

Field Service Technician

Itasca, IL

$68K/yr

... Entry-Level Field Service Technician , you'll be part of our Engineering Services team, working hands-on with the world's most innovative Factory Automation products. You'll travel to manufacturing ...

Keyence Corporation

Field Service Technician

Itasca, IL · On-site

$68K/yr

... Entry-Level Field Service Technician , you'll be part of our Engineering Services team, working hands-on with the world's most innovative Factory Automation products. You'll travel to manufacturing ...

Technipaq

Process Engineer

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

... in manufacturing positions!" The Process Engineer is an entry level to mid-level engineering ... position responsible to complete engineering activities in support of new materials, new products ...

In-finite Search Solutions

Be Seen First

Controls Engineer / Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$82K - $94K/yr

Qualifications * Degree in a Technical Field, related to Engineering, Systems, or Software ... Manufacturing process knowledge or building/facility management knowledge * Programmable Logic ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsManufacturing Engineering JobsEntry Level Manufacturing Engineering JobsEntry Level Manufacturing Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$32

$52

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing engineering in Chicago, IL is $32.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.22 and $35.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer may be assigned in their first year?

As an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer, you can expect to work on projects such as process improvement initiatives, troubleshooting production issues, and assisting with the implementation of new equipment or technologies. You'll likely collaborate closely with experienced engineers, production supervisors, and quality teams to analyze workflows and suggest optimizations. Early responsibilities often include data collection, creating process documentation, and supporting the launch of new products to ensure smooth manufacturing operations. This hands-on exposure is valuable for building technical skills and understanding plant operations.

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

AspectEntry Level Manufacturing EngineeringManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, process improvement, and project planning in manufacturing settingsHands-on equipment operation and maintenance on the factory floor
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, engineering firmsFactories, production plants

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineers focus on designing processes and improving manufacturing systems, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

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 (typically mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing) and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes and quality control. Familiarity with CAD software, lean manufacturing principles, and ERP systems is often required, and certifications like Six Sigma Green Belt can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and address production challenges. These skills and qualifications are essential for optimizing manufacturing efficiency, ensuring product quality, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

What does an entry level manufacturing engineer do?

An entry level manufacturing engineer assists in designing, developing, and improving manufacturing processes and systems within a factory or plant. Their responsibilities often include supporting production lines, troubleshooting equipment or process issues, ensuring quality standards, and collaborating with other engineers or technicians. They may also help implement new technologies, gather data for process improvements, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. This role is typically supervised and provides opportunities to learn about manufacturing operations and engineering best practices.
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, and 94% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,093 per year, or $32.3 per hour.
Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Just In Time Staffing LLC

Elgin, IL • On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer

Job Type: Direct Hire

Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 depending on experience

Hours: Day Shift (Occasional Off-Shift or On-Call Support Required) 

Location: Elgin, IL 

Requirements: Resume, Interview, E-verify

Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Supplemental life, and short-term disability insurance, basic life insurance and AD&D coverage, PTO. 

We are seeking an Entry-Level Manufacturing Engineer to join our team and play a key role in supporting production operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

This is not a desk job. You'll spend the majority of your time on the production floor working directly with operators, maintenance technicians, and production equipment to troubleshoot issues, improve reliability, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

Equipment Troubleshooting & Production Support

  • Respond to equipment breakdowns and production line stoppages.
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and process-related issues.
  • Work closely with maintenance technicians and production operators to restore equipment and minimize downtime.
  • Identify recurring equipment failures and help implement long-term corrective actions.
  • Support preventive maintenance programs and spare parts management.

Automation & Controls

  • Assist with troubleshooting and maintaining automated production equipment.
  • Support conveyors, fillers, packaging systems, sensors, motors, and PLC-controlled equipment.
  • Participate in equipment upgrades, installations, and sensor calibrations.
  • Develop troubleshooting skills for both mechanical and controls-related issues.

Continuous Improvement

  • Observe manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, throughput, quality, and waste reduction.
  • Assist with process improvement projects and Lean Manufacturing initiatives.
  • Document procedures, equipment modifications, and process changes.
  • Support safety, quality, and food-safety compliance requirements.

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Civil Engineering.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including standing, walking, lifting, exposure to noise, and varying temperatures.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred

  • Internship, co-op, lab, shop, automotive, robotics, or other hands-on technical experience.
  • Exposure to PLCs, sensors, motors, pneumatics, HMIs, or basic ladder logic through coursework or projects.
  • Experience in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or other GMP-regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with CAD software.
  • Understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, or CMMS systems.


Company Description

Just In Time Staffing seeks to pair top candidates with opportunities that will be mutually beneficial for both them and the employers.