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Fluid Power Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Berendsen Fluid Power

Field Sales Representative

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

As one of North America's leading fluid power integrators, we boast a robust network of 42 locations in the U.S. and Canada, delivering a fully integrated suite of supply, design, engineering, repair ...

HYDAC TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

DESIGN ENGINEER

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, with at least 2 years relevant work experience * Prior experience in fluid power design is a strong advantage * Logic driven troubleshooting ability * CAD ...

Hydac International GmbH

DESIGN ENGINEER

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, with at least 2 years relevant work experience * Prior experience in fluid power design is a strong advantage * Logic driven troubleshooting ability * CAD ...

Komatsu

Senior Engineer - Hydraulics

Peoria, IL · On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

Certified Fluid Power Engineer or Specialist is desired. * Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering or equivalent relevant discipline, required (MS preferred). * 12+ years' experience in engineering ...

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All JobsFluid Power Engineering JobsFluid Power Engineering Jobs in Illinois

Fluid Power Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$45.1K

$142.3K

$168.6K

How much do fluid power engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid power engineering in Illinois is $142,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,900.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fluid power engineering?

Fluid power engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the use, design, and maintenance of systems that transmit and control power through fluids under pressure, such as hydraulics (liquids) and pneumatics (gases). Fluid power engineers design components and systems like pumps, valves, actuators, and circuits used in machinery, vehicles, and industrial equipment. These systems are widely used in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and aerospace due to their efficiency and reliability in controlling force and motion. Fluid power engineers also work on improving the efficiency, safety, and environmental impact of these systems.

What are some typical challenges faced by fluid power engineers in project development, and how can they be addressed?

Fluid power engineers often encounter challenges such as system leakage, efficiency losses, and component compatibility during project development. Addressing these issues requires thorough system analysis, careful selection of compatible hydraulic or pneumatic components, and rigorous testing during the design phase. Collaborating closely with manufacturers, maintenance teams, and control engineers can help identify and resolve potential problems early, ensuring reliable and cost-effective solutions. Continuous learning about new technologies and industry standards also plays a key role in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fluid power engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fluid Power Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or hydraulic engineering, fluid mechanics, and system design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, hydraulic simulation tools, and industry certifications like those from the International Fluid Power Society (IFPS) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex system requirements. These skills are vital for designing efficient, safe, and reliable fluid power systems used in various industrial applications.

What is the difference between Fluid Power Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectFluid Power EngineeringMechanical Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Fluid Power Engineering, certifications like NFPA or FPEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, hydraulic and pneumatic system design labsFactories, design offices, research labs
Industry UsageHydraulic systems, pneumatic controls, fluid power systemsBroader mechanical systems, thermodynamics, structural design

Fluid Power Engineering focuses specifically on hydraulic and pneumatic systems, requiring specialized knowledge in fluid dynamics and control systems. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical systems, including thermodynamics, materials, and structural analysis. While both fields share foundational engineering principles, Fluid Power Engineers specialize in designing and maintaining fluid-based systems used in various industries.

What are popular job titles related to Fluid Power Engineering jobs in Illinois?

For Fluid Power Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fluid Power Engineering jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Fluid Power Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

Fluid Power Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fluid Power Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,319 per year, or $68.4 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer - Fluid Power Specialty

Scot Forge

Spring Grove, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Scot Forge rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Scot Forge is looking to expand our engineering team with a Fluid Power Engineer. This position requires the knowledge and ability to design and validate complex hydraulic equipment. The design of new equipment to meet changing business needs along with redesign of existing equipment to increase reliability, safety, and quality. Scot Forge is a 130-year-old, 100% employee-owned company that manufactures custom open die and rolled ring forgings. At Scot Forge, we help our customers succeed in their most critical initiatives with forged solutions for everything from the world's physical infrastructure, energy, and transportation to manufacturing, mining, and our national defense. From the wheels of NASA's Curiosity Mars Rover to mission critical components for nuclear submarines, to large hydraulic cylinders for the largest mining trucks on the planet, Scot Forge creates the precision forged metal parts used in demanding applications all over the world.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Determine form, fit, function and specification of hydraulic and mechanical equipment and components to meet manufacturing requirements/needs (presses, mobile equipment, heat treat equipment, machine tools, etc.)
  • Research and develop new processes and equipment
  • Fluid Power circuit design (logic, system control, and hydraulic schematics)
  • Hydraulic and mechanical layout of systems/components (SolidWorks part & assembly modeling)
  • Troubleshoot fluid power and control systems
  • Machine control programming

Qualifications:
  • Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology or equivalent
  • Preferred focus or specialty in Fluid Power
  • Hands on individual
  • Exhibits a high level of mechanical aptitude and creativity
  • SolidWorks (Solid modeling) for parts, large assemblies, and drawings
  • Excellent communication skills, organization, and detail oriented

Closing Statement:
Other Duties as Assigned
Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:
Position requires a mix of working in office and occasionally working in production areas while forklifts, overhead cranes and related equipment are in use. On occasion while performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to heat and cold weather conditions as well as wet and/or humid conditions. When in the area of production, appropriate PPE is mandatory.
During new equipment builds, equipment shutdowns, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions individual is exposed to (Occasionally - 20% of time):
  • Elements such as extreme heat, extreme cold, dust, debris, fumes, and noise.
  • All forms of movement and physical demands such as heavy and light lifting, crawling, climbing, bending, pushing, pulling, etc.
  • Safety hazards such as heights, uneven ground, confined space, noise, pressure vessels, high pressure hydraulics, suspended loads, heavy equipment, chemicals, cut hazards, asphyxiation, CO2, aldehydes, silica, aluminum oxides, electrical shock and burns from hot product, combustion and electrical hazards.

The estimated pay range for this position is the lowest and highest range we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We ultimately may pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. The actual pay offered to a candidate will depend on various factors including but not limited to relevant skills, experience, qualifications, education, certifications, seniority, geographic location and prevailing minimum wage, performance, shift, travel requirements, and business or organizational needs.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for eligible employees including Medical, Vision, Dental, Hearing, Life (Basic & AD&D), Disability (STD & LTD), 401K Plan with match, Profit Sharing, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Tax Savings (FSA & HAS), Vacation Time, Paid Time Off, and Paid Holidays.
Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, or any other form of compensation for any particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole discretion, consistent with the law.
Scot Forge is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome all qualified candidates to apply.
We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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