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Field Test Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Test Engineer I or Industrial Water Equipment Quality Control (QC) Tester is ... field required; Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Applied Sciences, or a related discipline ...

... Engineering, or Related technical field. *Experience troubleshooting of hardware, software, and firmware issues. *Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative environment and with multiple ...

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Field Test Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$39

$62

How much do field test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for field test engineer in Chicago, IL is $39.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.98 and $47.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a field test engineer?

Field Test Engineers are technical professionals responsible for testing products, equipment, or systems under real-world conditions outside of the laboratory or production environment. They typically evaluate performance, reliability, and compliance with standards by conducting tests at customer sites, in the field, or on-site installations. Their work helps identify issues, verify product functionality, and provide feedback to development teams for improvements. Field Test Engineers often document results, troubleshoot problems, and collaborate closely with engineers, clients, and other stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a field test engineer?

To thrive as a Field Test Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, troubleshooting, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or related engineering fields. Familiarity with test equipment, diagnostic software, and tools such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and field data collection systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help you excel in dynamic, real-world environments. These skills ensure accurate testing, timely issue resolution, and effective collaboration, driving product quality and customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by field test engineers during on-site testing, and how can they be managed?

Field Test Engineers often encounter unpredictable environmental conditions, equipment malfunctions, and logistical hurdles during on-site testing. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and thorough preparation, such as pre-test equipment checks and contingency planning. Effective communication with both the engineering team and clients is crucial for addressing issues quickly and ensuring that data collected meets quality standards. Developing a systematic approach to documentation and troubleshooting also helps streamline future field tests and improves overall efficiency.

What is the difference between Field Test Engineer vs Test Engineer?

AspectField Test EngineerTest Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like ISTQBBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like ISTQB
Work EnvironmentOn-site, field locations, outdoor testingLaboratories, office settings, controlled environments
Industry UsageTelecommunications, electronics, automotiveSoftware, hardware, product development

While both roles focus on testing, the Field Test Engineer primarily conducts on-site, outdoor testing of products in real-world conditions, whereas the Test Engineer typically performs testing within controlled lab environments. The roles often overlap in certifications and industry usage, but their work settings and focus differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Field Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Field Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Field Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Field Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Field Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Field Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Field Test Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,867 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Manufacturing Test Engineer I

Culligan

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Culligan rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

408th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Manufacturing Test Engineer I or Industrial Water Equipment Quality Control (QC) Tester is responsible for inspecting, testing, and verifying the quality and performance of industrial and commercial water treatment systems and components prior to shipment or installation. This role ensures compliance with engineering specifications, safety regulations, and customer requirements, while also contributing to the development of testing protocols and continuous product improvement.

Responsibilities:

  • Work cross-functionally to resolve production issues and implement systems that improve overall quality levels and enhance customer satisfaction.
  • Perform leak, pressure, flow, and operational testing on water treatment systems, including reverse osmosis units, filtration systems, and softeners- to verify performance and compliance with specifications.
  • Inspect pumps, valves, controls, filtration components, and electrical wiring to ensure they meet design and quality requirements.
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics to troubleshoot wiring, control circuits, and system functionality issues.
  • Assist in developing and refining testing protocols to ensure consistent, accurate, and efficient quality verification processes.
  • Work with regulatory agencies to ensure systems and documentation comply with applicable standards and requirements.
  • Provide detailed feedback to engineering and manufacturing teams to resolve issues and improve product design, manufacturability, and production processes.
  • Accurately document all test results in designated QC forms or electronic systems using SharePoint Quality Site.
  • Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and production staff to quickly address and resolve quality concerns.
  • Maintain calibration and functionality of testing equipment.
  • Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and environmental regulations.
  • Develop and implement systems/procedures that define, measure, and control the quality level at each critical stage of the design, manufacturing, and inspection process.
  • Issue corrective actions and verify that all root causes are accurately identified, addressed, and prevented from recurring.
  • Support external and internal quality audits by preparing required documentation, coordinating audit activities, and ensuring adherence to established processes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • Associate’s degree in Electrical Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or related technical field required; Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Applied Sciences, or a related discipline preferred.
  • Minimum 4–5 years’ experience in equipment testing, mechanical/electrical assembly, or industrial maintenance, with at least 2 years involving quality control in manufacturing preferred.
  • Experience with testing and troubleshooting PLC logic.
  • Experience with industrial water treatment equipment strongly preferred.
  • Background in reading, interpreting, and troubleshooting electrical schematics and mechanical diagrams.
  • Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs regularly.
  • Comfortable working in wet, noisy, and variable-temperature environments.
  • Occasional travel may be required for on-site inspections or customer support.

Competencies:

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies in this position:

 

Problem Solving                 Detail Oriented                   Analytical & Troubleshooting Skills

Initiative                              Integrity                              Oral & Written Communication

Self Starter                         Team Player                       Customer Focus

Target Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 salary a year. Exact pay will be based on factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, level, geographic location, and business and organizational needs. Full-time positions are eligible for competitive benefits, including paid time off, health, dental, vision, life, disability benefits and 401(k). 

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