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Entry Level R&D Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Owens Corning

Process Engineer R & D

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

PURPOSE OF THE JOB The R&D Process Engineer (MPI) is a hands-on technical role responsible for developing, scaling, and industrializing new materials, formulations, and manufacturing processes for ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... with R&D. Ideal candidates have a strong software development background and familiarity with quantum computation. This role is open to both entry-level and senior-level candidates. Job ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... with R&D. Ideal candidates have a strong software development background and familiarity with quantum computation. This role is open to both entry-level and senior-level candidates. Job ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... with R&D. Ideal candidates have a strong software development background and familiarity with quantum computation. This role is open to both entry-level and senior-level candidates. Job ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Land Development Assistant

Schaumburg, IL

$18 - $24.50/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S. , was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ...

D.R. Horton

Customer Service Tech

Schaumburg, IL

$17 - $23/hr

*D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S.,*was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Online Sales Concierge

Schaumburg, IL

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Pilot Fermentation Engineer - Decatur, IL The Pilot Fermentation Engineer is responsible for ... R&D. Responsibilities: * The following represents the majority of the duties performed by the ...

New

Martin Engineering

Molder - 3rd Shift

Neponset, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Prepares special orders for R & D and engineering. * Conducts training on equipment, processes and safety and upgrades training materials, as appropriate. * Complies with OSHA/MSHA requirements ...

Martin Engineering

Molder - 3rd Shift

Neponset, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Prepares special orders for R & D and engineering. * Conducts training on equipment, processes and safety and upgrades training materials, as appropriate. * Complies with OSHA/MSHA requirements ...

Martin Engineering

Molder - 3rd Shift

Princeton, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Prepares special orders for R & D and engineering. * Conducts training on equipment, processes and safety and upgrades training materials, as appropriate. * Complies with OSHA/MSHA requirements ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Customer Service Tech

Schaumburg, IL

$17 - $22.75/hr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ...

Sargent & Lundy

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

... entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your civil engineering ... Work with Designers to accurately portray designs in 3-D models and design drawings. * Review shop ...

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Entry Level R D Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$29.1K

$67.2K

$114.3K

How much do entry level r&d engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level r&d engineer in Illinois is $67,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level R&D Engineer do?

An Entry Level R&D Engineer assists in the research, design, and development of new products or processes within a company. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and helping to solve technical challenges. Their responsibilities may also include preparing reports, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and contributing to the improvement of existing products. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain hands-on experience in a laboratory or product development environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level R&D Engineer vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level R&D EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often in R&D or related fieldsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teams, innovation centersManufacturing plants, design offices, testing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing firms, research institutionsAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level R&D Engineers focus on developing new products and technologies in research settings, while Entry Level Mechanical Engineers typically work on designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems in manufacturing or industrial environments. Both roles require a bachelor's degree and are common entry points in engineering industries, but their daily tasks and work environments differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level R&D Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level R&D Engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, strong analytical skills, and a solid grasp of scientific and mathematical principles. Familiarity with CAD software, laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is often required, and knowledge of industry-specific standards or certifications can be beneficial. Effective problem-solving, creativity, and strong teamwork and communication abilities help individuals stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are important because they enable engineers to develop innovative solutions, collaborate efficiently with multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to the advancement of new products and technologies.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an Entry Level R&D Engineer?

As an Entry Level R&D Engineer, you will typically work on a variety of projects that support the development and improvement of new products or technologies. Your responsibilities may include conducting experiments, analyzing data, assisting with prototype design, and collaborating with more experienced engineers and cross-functional teams. You'll also have opportunities to contribute ideas during brainstorming sessions and may be involved in documenting research findings. This role provides hands-on experience and is an excellent way to develop technical skills while learning industry best practices.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level R&D Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level R&D Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level R&D Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level R&D Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Entry Level R D Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level R&D Engineer job openings in Illinois as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,213 per year, or $32.3 per hour.
Process Engineer R & D

Process Engineer R & D

Owens Corning

West Chicago, IL • On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Owens Corning rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 516 rated manufacturers

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE JOB
The R&D Process Engineer (MPI) is a hands-on technical role responsible for developing, scaling, and industrializing new materials, formulations, and manufacturing processes for wood fiber and composite door products. This role sits at the critical interface between R&D and Operations, owning the transition from lab and pilot validation to full scale manufacturing, while ensuring process robustness, safety, quality, and cost effectiveness. Success in this role requires strong experimental discipline, plant level troubleshooting capability, and the ability to translate data into executable manufacturing solutions.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Process & Technology Development
  • Lead scale-up of new formulations, materials, and processes from lab and pilot equipment to full scale production lines
  • Translate R&D learnings into manufacturing ready process windows, control plans, and operating standards

Data Driven Problem Solving & Optimization
  • Lead structured root cause analysis using DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, and Lean methodologies
  • Diagnose and resolve process instability, quality defects, yield loss, and throughput limitations
  • Design, execute, and document plant trials, including clear hypotheses, success criteria, and conclusions
  • Use statistical and process data to drive decisions-not assumptions

Manufacturing & Plant Interface
  • Provide direct technical support to manufacturing teams during trials, startups, and sustained production
  • Partner with Operations to implement process improvements, debottlenecking, and other process related initiatives
  • Ensure smooth transfer from development into operations, including training, documentation, and risk mitigation
  • Travel to manufacturing sites as needed to support trials and troubleshooting

Safety, Compliance & Sustainability
  • Ensure all development and manufacturing activities comply with Owens Corning safety standards and regulatory requirements
  • Embed Design for Safety and risk assessment into all new process development

Project Execution & Collaboration
  • Manage process development and capital projects from concept through implementation. Own end to end execution of process development and scale up projects, from concept through pilot validation and manufacturing implementation
  • Plan and execute plant trials and process changes, including coordination of resources, materials, equipment availability, and cross functional support
  • Track and manage project risks, assumptions, and dependencies, escalating issues early with clear data-based recommendations
  • Collaborate cross functionally with R&D, Design, Quality, Operations, Maintenance, and Sourcing
  • Communicate technical results clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including leadership
  • Ensure projects transition smoothly from development into operations with clear documentation, training, and ownership handoff

JOB REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field
  • 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering, or industrial R&D
  • Demonstrated experience scaling processes from lab or pilot to production
  • Strong working knowledge of DOE, SPC, and structured problem-solving tools
  • Proven ability to work hands-on in manufacturing environments, not just in labs
  • Strong technical writing, documentation, and communication skills

Preferred Experience
  • Experience with wood fiber, composites, polymers, resins, adhesives, or press-based manufacturing
  • Familiarity with continuous or batch manufacturing processes
  • Experience supporting plant trials, startups, or technology transfers
  • Background in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma
  • Comfort working in ambiguity and early-stage development environments

The base salary range for this position is $78,000 to $100,000, with the potential for up to an additional 10+% if the applicant hired has additional related qualifications. We also offer a substantial benefits package including insurance (medical/dental/vision/life/disability/supplemental offerings), 401k (company contribution regardless of employee participation - plus match), paid time off that considers full professional tenure (vacation, personal floating and standard holidays), Employee Assistance Services, Stock Purchase Program - and more.
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About Owens Corning
Owens Corning is a branded building products leader with three complementary market-leading businesses providing roofing, insulation, and doors primarily for residential markets in North America and Europe. The company operates with an integrated go-to-market strategy and a unique set of OC Advantages™ - including its iconic brand, unparalleled commercial strength, leading technology, and winning cost position - to help customers win and grow in the market. Owens Corning is committed to helping build better and achieve more through winning partnerships, leading performance, and engaging people. Founded in 1938 and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: OC). For more information, visit www.owenscorning.com.
Owens Corning is an equal opportunity employer. Except in limited circumstances such as formal apprenticeship programs, Owens Corning does not employ anyone under the age of 18.

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About OWENS CORNING

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Owens Corning (OC) develops, manufactures and markets insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. Global in scope and human in scale, the company's market-leading businesses use their deep expertise in materials, manufacturing and building science to develop products and systems that save energy and improve comfort in commercial and residential buildings. Through its glass reinforcements business, the company makes thousands of products lighter, stronger and more durable. Ultimately, Owens Corning people and products make the world a better place. Based in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning posted 2017 sales of $6.4 billion and employs 19,000 people in 37 countries. It has been a Fortune 500® company for 64 consecutive years. For more information, please visit www.owenscorning.com. A career at Owens Corning offers the ability to enhance your expertise and achieve your personal and professional aspirations. Through it all, we'll empower you with an environment that encourages open communication and big ideas, competitive pay for your performance, comprehensive benefits, and more opportunities to make your impact.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Toledo, OH, US

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