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Lead Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

S&C

Manufacturing Engineer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Lead manufacturing engineering projects from design through implementation, including equipment installation and process redesign. Define scope, manage timelines, and coordinate with internal ...

G&W Electric

Manufacturing Engineer II

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$85K - $97K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer II Reporting to the Lead Manufacturing Engineer, this position will be responsible for the continuous improvement of our safety, quality, delivery, and cost through the ...

Dynamic Manufacturing

Manufacturing Engineer

Hillside, IL · On-site

$79 - $100/hr

The Manufacturing Engineer must be highly technical and is directly responsible for developing ... lead time, and reducing product cost. The individual will provide leadership and cultivate an ...

ITW Automotive

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Richton Park, IL · On-site

$90K - $123K/yr

Lead complex manufacturing engineering projects related to injection molding, light assembly, automation, tooling, fixtures, packaging, material flow, plant layout, capacity, safety, quality, and ...

Essenti Talent

Manufacturing Engineer

Chicago, IL

$48.08 - $55.29/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Chicago, IL (Northwest Side) · Onsite · $100,000-$115,000 An 85-year-old ... You would lead the APQP work on those launches and build the routers and BOM structure in a fresh ...

System One

Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Location: Cary, Illinois Type: Contract Compensation: $45.00 - $51.00 per ... Support line performance monitoring and lead practical problem solving (PPS) projects to remediate ...

Essenti

Manufacturing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer Chicago, IL (Northwest Side) · Onsite · $100,000-$115,000 An 85-year-old ... You would lead the APQP work on those launches and build the routers and BOM structure in a fresh ...

System One

Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Location: Cary, Illinois Type: Contract Compensation: $45.00 - $51.00 per ... Support line performance monitoring and lead practical problem solving (PPS) projects to remediate ...

System One

Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Location: Cary, Illinois Type: Contract Compensation: $45.00 - $51.00 per ... Support line performance monitoring and lead practical problem solving (PPS) projects to remediate ...

System One

Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Location: Cary, Illinois Type: Contract Compensation: $45.00 - $51.00 per ... Support line performance monitoring and lead practical problem solving (PPS) projects to remediate ...

System One

Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Location: Cary, Illinois Type: Contract Compensation: $45.00 - $51.00 per ... Support line performance monitoring and lead practical problem solving (PPS) projects to remediate ...

System One

Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$45 - $51/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Location: Cary, Illinois Type: Contract Compensation: $45.00 - $51.00 per ... Support line performance monitoring and lead practical problem solving (PPS) projects to remediate ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsLead Manufacturing Engineer JobsLead Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lead Manufacturing Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$48.5K

$110.2K

$171.1K

How much do lead manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead manufacturing engineer in Chicago, IL is $110,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,600.00 and $121,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead manufacturing engineer do?

A Lead Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for overseeing and optimizing production processes within a manufacturing facility. They lead a team of engineers and technicians to improve efficiency, ensure product quality, and implement cost-saving measures. Their duties often include designing manufacturing systems, troubleshooting issues, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards. By leveraging their technical expertise and leadership skills, they help drive continuous improvement in manufacturing operations.

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

To thrive as a Lead Manufacturing Engineer, you need a strong background in manufacturing processes, problem-solving, and engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, lean manufacturing systems, Six Sigma methodologies, and ERP/MES platforms is typically required, and certifications such as Six Sigma Black Belt can be advantageous. Leadership, effective communication, and project management are essential soft skills for coordinating teams and driving continuous improvement. These skills and qualities are crucial for optimizing production efficiency, ensuring quality, and leading successful engineering projects within a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges lead manufacturing engineers face when introducing new processes on the production floor?

Lead Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring seamless integration of new technologies or processes with existing equipment, minimizing downtime during transitions, and gaining buy-in from production staff. They must carefully coordinate with cross-functional teams, including quality assurance and maintenance, to troubleshoot unforeseen issues and maintain product standards. Effective communication, comprehensive training, and continuous monitoring are key to overcoming these obstacles and achieving successful implementation.

What is the difference between Lead Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectLead Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees manufacturing processes, leads teams, implements improvementsDesigns and develops manufacturing processes, supports production
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, experience in manufacturing, leadership skillsBachelor's in Engineering, process knowledge, technical skills
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in production facilities, cross-functional teamsOperational settings, production lines, process development
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing plants, automotive, aerospaceWidespread in manufacturing sectors, electronics, consumer goods

The main difference is that a Lead Manufacturing Engineer typically manages teams and oversees process improvements, while a Manufacturing Engineer focuses on designing and supporting manufacturing processes. The lead role involves more leadership and strategic planning, whereas the manufacturing engineer is more technical and hands-on in process development.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,195 per year, or $53 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Bolingbrook, IL

$43 - $50/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Title: Manufacturing Engineer
Location: Bolingbrook, IL
Position Type: Full-Time Contract-to-Hire (Longevity Desired)
Shift: 1st Shift
Compensation: $43-50 per hour
Benefits: A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, paid holidays, a 401(k), employee ownership (ESOP)

You’ll have the opportunity to work at the intersection of manufacturing engineering, automation, new product development, and continuous improvement, while partnering with Design Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and leadership. This role offers significant visibility and the ability to directly influence safety, quality, delivery, cost, and manufacturing efficiency.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead Manufacturing Engineering projects from initial planning through development, validation, implementation, and production launch.
  • Research and develop new manufacturing equipment, processes, standard operating procedures, and work instructions.
  • Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing processes, eliminate waste, increase efficiency, and improve overall operational performance.
  • Review engineering deliverables for technical accuracy, manufacturing feasibility, and adherence to engineering standards and project schedules.
  • Participate in design reviews and serve as a manufacturing liaison throughout the product lifecycle, from concept through customer shipment.
  • Support new product launches by identifying opportunities to improve manufacturability, reduce manufacturing costs, and increase process reliability.
  • Identify capital equipment requirements and develop plans to implement new technologies and manufacturing capabilities.
  • Lead equipment upgrades, process optimization initiatives, and innovative improvements across assigned manufacturing assets.
  • Design and implement tooling, fixtures, and error-proofing solutions to improve safety, quality, and process consistency.
  • Participate in Process Mapping, FMEA, Rapid Improvement Events (RIEs), 8-Step Problem Solving, Quality Control Plans, and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) initiatives.
Qualifications
  • Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or related Engineering field.
  • Must have 5+ years of professional engineering/manufacturing experience.
  • Strong computer skills with confidence working with data analysis programs and manufacturing data.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with experience applying root cause analysis techniques.
Preferred Qualifications (Not Required):
  • Project Management and/or engineering leadership experience.
  • Six Sigma, Red X, or other structured problem-solving certification.
  • CAD/CAM experience.
  • Experience working cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and other business functions.
  • Experience with advanced automation, Industry 4.0, equipment optimization, and manufacturing transformation.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.