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Food Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

MS in Dairy Science, Food Engineering, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field with a focus on dairy processing and/or thermal processing. * 5-10 years of progressive experience ...

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

MS in Dairy Science, Food Engineering, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field with a focus on dairy processing and/or thermal processing. * 5-10 years of progressive experience ...

Project Engineer

Summit, IL · On-site

$119K - $144K/yr

ACH Food Companies, Inc. (ACH) is a prominent consumer packaged goods company. In North America, we ... The role of the Project Engineer II is to plan, execute, and finalize projects according to strict ...

Project Engineer

Summit, IL · On-site

$120 - $144/hr

ACH Food Companies, Inc. (ACH) is a prominent consumer packaged goods company. In North America, we ... The Project Engineer II will develop the project's objectives and assist with project lifecycle ...

Qualifications Ability to work independently under the direction of senior Scientists/Engineers ... A Food Science degree or Masters with 6-10 years' experience. Product development experience Degree ...

Works with cross functional teams (Marketing, Sales, Manufacturing, Finance, Engineering, Quality ... Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands ...

Works with cross functional teams (Marketing, Sales, Manufacturing, Finance, Engineering, Quality ... Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19K

$67.4K

$137.5K

How much do food engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for food engineer in Chicago, IL is $67,439.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,622.00 and $81,087.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a food engineer do?

A Food Engineer applies principles of engineering, microbiology, and chemistry to develop and improve food products, processing techniques, and packaging. They work to enhance food quality, safety, and shelf life while optimizing production efficiency. Food Engineers collaborate with food scientists and manufacturers to design equipment, improve preservation methods, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Their work plays a crucial role in making food production safer, more sustainable, and cost-effective.

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

A Food Engineer needs a solid background in food science, chemical engineering, and process design, typically acquired through a degree in food engineering or a related discipline. Familiarity with CAD software, process simulation tools, and knowledge of food safety regulations (such as HACCP certification) are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams help distinguish successful Food Engineers. These skills are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and innovative development of food processes and products in a fast-evolving industry.

Are food engineers in high demand?

Food engineers are in high demand due to the growing need for food safety, product development, and sustainable manufacturing practices. The field offers opportunities in food processing, quality control, and research, often requiring knowledge of engineering principles and food science tools. Employment prospects are strong in both manufacturing and research sectors.

What degree do you need for food engineering?

Food engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in food engineering, food science, chemical engineering, or a related field. Advanced positions or research roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with knowledge of food processing, safety standards, and relevant tools or certifications.

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

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

Infographic showing various Food Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,439 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer - Food Processing

Cozzini LLC

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

We are seeking a skilled, detail-oriented Design Engineer to support the design, development, and execution of our food processing equipment projects. In this role, you will bridge the gap between initial concept and final production-coordinating design activities while ensuring all projects meet strict technical, manufacturing, and customer requirements. If you have a strong background in machine design, excellent CAD capabilities, and love seeing your designs come to life on the shop floor, we want to hear from you.


Key Responsibilities
  • Utilize CAD and drafting software to create, refine, and maintain detailed engineering drawings and machine designs. 
  • Create rough layouts and calculate critical specifications (dimensions, angles, surface areas, tolerances, and clearances).
  • Provide direct engineering support to our fabrication and assembly departments. 
  • Measure machines and components during production to ensure 100% compliance with engineering drawings.
  • Manage engineering activities related to project scheduling, design reviews, testing, and problem resolution. 
  • Monitor project-related expenditures to stay within budget guidelines.
  • Analyze engineering sketches, specifications, and technical data to determine design requirements. 
  • Evaluate and approve design changes, drawing revisions, and specification updates.
  • Prepare comprehensive project status updates, interim reports, and final project documentation.
  • Partner closely with internal departments, customers, and vendors throughout the project lifecycle. 
  • Travel periodically to customer and vendor locations to support project coordination and implementation.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications & Skills
  • Proven experience in machine design, mechanical design, or a closely related engineering role (experience with food processing or sanitary equipment is a major plus).
  • Strong CAD proficiency (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, or AutoCAD) and a deep understanding of manufacturing tolerances, layouts, and component arrangement.
  • Ability to analyze complex technical data and resolve engineering challenges on the fly.
  • Exceptional collaboration skills to work effectively with shop floor fabricators, cross-functional internal teams, vendors, and clients.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced environment and is comfortable splitting time between the desk and the manufacturing floor.
  • Willingness to travel periodically as required by project needs.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
  • A dynamic, team-oriented work environment.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and hands-on project ownership.

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.
Benefits:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with employer contribution
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Company-Paid Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 401(k) Plan

Principals only, please no third parties  

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
  • 3-5 years of experience in machine design engineering or related engineering roles
  • Experience working with sheet metal, machined parts, cast components, welding, and dimensional/geometric tolerancing
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor
  • Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and manufacturing processes

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Experience with FEA software and engineering analysis tools
  • Experience within food processing equipment or capital equipment manufacturing environments

NO RELOCATION PROVIDED