ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Product Development Jobs in Illinois

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Support product development, product improvement, cost reduction, and product health initiatives ... BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience. * Entry level candidates and experienced ...

Cintas

Production Supervisor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Responsibilities include hiring, training and directing individuals who are performing entry level ... Skills Development, Training and Career Advancement Opportunities Compensation A reasonable ...

Cintas

Production Supervisor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Responsibilities include hiring, training and directing individuals who are performing entry level ... Skills Development, Training and Career Advancement Opportunities Compensation A reasonable ...

Cintas

Production Supervisor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Responsibilities include hiring, training and directing individuals who are performing entry level ... Skills Development, Training and Career Advancement Opportunities Compensation A reasonable ...

ELV MANAGEMENT INC

Be Seen First

Sales Representative - Entry Level

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$2.6K - $4.3K/mo

Communicate product and service options clearly and professionally * Assist with onboarding, follow ... Hands-on training and continuous skill development * Opportunities for growth into leadership and ...

ELV MANAGEMENT INC

Be Seen First

Sales Representative - Entry Level

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$2.6K - $4.3K/mo

Communicate product and service options clearly and professionally * Assist with onboarding, follow ... Hands-on training and continuous skill development * Opportunities for growth into leadership and ...

Cintas

Production Supervisor - 2nd Shift

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Responsibilities include hiring, training and directing individuals who are performing entry level ... Skills Development, Training and Career Advancement Opportunities Compensation A reasonable ...

KIK Consumer Product

Forklift Operator

Chicago, IL

$20.60/hr

In this entry-level material handling role, you will safely move raw materials, packaging, and ... Our global team of over 2,300 employees drives our capabilities in product development, product ...

KIK Consumer Product

Forklift Operator 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.60/hr

In this entry-level material handling role, you will safely move raw materials, packaging, and ... Our global team of over 2,300 employees drives our capabilities in product development, product ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsProduct Development JobsEntry Level Product Development JobsEntry Level Product Development Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Product Development information

See Illinois salary details

$14

$24

$40

How much do entry level product development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level product development in Illinois is $24.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $25.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level product development professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in product development often face challenges such as balancing multiple project priorities, quickly adapting to changing product requirements, and effectively communicating ideas within cross-functional teams. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized by using project management tools, proactively seek feedback from more experienced colleagues, and actively participate in team meetings to improve communication skills. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to learning from setbacks will also help new product developers build confidence and advance in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Development vs Entry Level Product Design?

AspectEntry Level Product DevelopmentEntry Level Product Design
Primary FocusCreating, testing, and refining products from concept to productionDesigning the visual and functional aspects of products
Required SkillsEngineering, prototyping, project managementSketching, CAD, user experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, cross-functional teamsDesign studios, collaborative teams, software tools
Common CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsDesign software certifications, portfolio

Entry Level Product Development and Entry Level Product Design share overlapping skills like creativity and teamwork but differ mainly in focus. Product development emphasizes engineering and manufacturing processes, while product design centers on aesthetics and user experience. Both roles are essential in bringing a product from concept to market, often working closely together in the product lifecycle.

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

To excel in Entry Level Product Development, you need a background in product design, basic market research, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree such as business, engineering, or design. Familiarity with tools like Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software, and project management platforms (e.g., Jira or Trello) is commonly expected. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills that help drive innovation and effective collaboration. These competencies ensure the successful creation, refinement, and launch of products that meet market needs and organizational goals.

What is an entry level product development job?

An entry level product development job involves assisting in the design, creation, and improvement of new products or features under the supervision of more experienced team members. Responsibilities often include conducting market research, creating prototypes, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and gathering user feedback. This role is ideal for recent graduates or individuals new to the field who are looking to gain experience in bringing ideas to market. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn are important for success in entry level product development positions.

What qualifications do you need to be an entry level product development?

Entry level product development roles typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering, design, or a related field. Strong problem-solving skills, familiarity with design software like CAD, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are also important qualifications for this position.
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Product Development jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Product Development jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Product Development jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Product Development jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Product Development jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Product Development job openings:
Entry Level Product Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Development job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,248 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Decatur, IL • On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

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 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 large off-highway equipment used in construction, mining, earthmoving, and industrial applications. Projects may involve large mining trucks, off-highway trucks, wheel loaders, wheel tractor scrapers, wheel dozers, motor graders, and compaction equipment. The work will be highly collaborative with engineering, manufacturing, validation, quality, suppliers, and factory operations teams.
Responsibilities
  • Participate in the design, development, build, and validation of mechanical systems and components used in large off-highway equipment.
  • 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 machine testing and ensure robust product performance.
  • Develop and evaluate design concepts for fabricated structures, mounting systems, castings, machined components, hydraulic systems, 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
  • BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience.
  • Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes, assembly operations, machining, welding, or fabrication.
  • Experience supporting product development, validation, prototype builds, or new product introduction activities.
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment, construction equipment, mining equipment, heavy machinery, or hydraulic systems.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Experience working with cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$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
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
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.

Apply