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Entry Level Product Development Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... You'll spend the majority of your time on the production floor working directly with operators ...

R&D Engineer - Campus 2026-2027 Tonawanda, NY or Burr Ridge, IL, United States req32163 What you ... We live our mission of making our world more productive every day by providing high-quality ...

Packaging Engineer

Downers Grove, IL ยท On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

This high-impact role supports new product development, packaging innovation, commercialization, manufacturing excellence, and customer success across our Closures portfolio. As a Packaging Engineer ...

Mechanical Engineer I

Schaumburg, IL ยท Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

Support product development activities, including concept generation, prototyping, and design ... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks ...

This high-impact role supports new product development, packaging innovation, commercialization, manufacturing excellence, and customer success across our Closures portfolio. As a Packaging Engineer ...

Firmware Engineer

Homewood, IL ยท On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

Firmware Engineer - Homewood, Illinois DUTIES: * Assist leadership with new ideas and concepts for ... Firmware product development cycle and creative product development. * Hardware product development ...

We help companies accelerate product development and ensure market compliance. We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Medical Device Sales Engineer to drive the growth of our consulting ...

We help companies accelerate product development and ensure market compliance. We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Medical Device Sales Engineer to drive the growth of our consulting ...

Senior Process Engineer

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Senior Process Engineer The Role: Our site in Aurora is seeking a Process Development Engineer to ... and product performance * Create technical presentations to be shared within R&D, internal ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Product Development Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$90.6K

$136.6K

How much do entry level product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level product development engineer in Chicago, IL is $90,605.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or tasks that an entry level product development engineer might work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Product Development Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of tasks such as assisting with prototype design, conducting product testing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams like marketing and manufacturing. You may also help in analyzing customer feedback, documenting technical specifications, and supporting the development of new features or product iterations. Early on, you'll likely work under the guidance of senior engineers, which provides a great opportunity to learn industry best practices and gradually take on more responsibility as you gain experience.

What does an entry level product development engineer do?

An Entry Level Product Development Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing new products or improving existing ones. They work closely with senior engineers and cross-functional teams to bring product ideas to life, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software and prototyping tools. Responsibilities may include conducting research, analyzing data, and supporting product launches. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in the engineering field, helping to bridge the gap between concept and finished product.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Development Engineer vs Product Designer?

AspectEntry Level Product Development EngineerProduct Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, or related fieldBachelor's in Design, Graphic Design, or related field
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, R&D labs, manufacturing settingsDesign studios, user research environments, collaborative offices
Industry UsageManufacturing, technology, consumer productsConsumer electronics, apparel, digital products
Common Search IntentUnderstanding engineering roles in product developmentUnderstanding design roles in product creation

The Entry Level Product Development Engineer focuses on designing, testing, and improving products from an engineering perspective, often working closely with manufacturing. In contrast, Product Designers emphasize user experience, aesthetics, and usability, often working in creative and user-centered environments. Both roles are essential in product creation but differ in their focus and skill sets.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Product Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a relevant degree such as Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and basic knowledge of product lifecycle management (PLM) systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability help you collaborate across departments and respond to evolving project demands. These skills and qualities are critical for efficiently translating ideas into viable products while meeting technical, cost, and timeline objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Product Development Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Development Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,605 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

R&D - Process Development Specialist

Humetis Group

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Title: R&D Process Development Specialist
Location: Chicago, IL 60642
Duration: 12 Months (Possible Extension)

Position Summary

We are seeking a Process Development Specialist to join our R&D team, focused on delivering innovative, consumer-relevant food products through robust scientific principles and process engineering. This role supports end-to-end product development - from ideation to industrialization - with an emphasis on quality, safety, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities
  • Drive innovation by developing new products and improving core offerings through consumer, shopper, and customer insights

  • Translate insights into Key Quality Attributes (KQAs) and ensure they are defined and maintained throughout development and change management

  • Act as a technical steward of brand knowledge and ensure consistency across process, ingredient, or packaging changes

  • Execute pilot and factory-scale trials, overseeing the development of new processes and optimization of existing systems

  • Ensure all research, testing, and process development adheres to scientific and regulatory standards

  • Analyze safety and quality testing outcomes to ensure compliance with internal and external standards

  • Support business case development through technical input on product functionality, cost targets, and development timelines

  • May be involved in coordinating regulatory approval processes related to new product development

Requirements
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Food Engineering, Food Technology, or Chemical Engineering (Food Engineering/Technology preferred)

  • Experience: Minimum 2 years in R&D within the Food or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry

  • Strong understanding of sterilization, retort technologies, and food safety principles

  • Hands-on experience with pilot-level process development and equipment operation

  • Familiarity with core food processing unit operations such as mixing, sterilization, and packaging

  • Proven ability to plan, coordinate, and execute pilot and factory-scale trials