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Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Harvard, IL (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, or a related technical field. * Equivalent combination of education and ten (10) or more years of manufacturing ...

... · Associate degree in engineering discipline with 3-5 years manufacturing experience or in lieu of a degree 6-8 years of manufacturing engineering experience · Strong communication skills and ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

... • Associate degree in engineering discipline with 3-5 years manufacturing experience or in lieu of a degree 6-8 years of manufacturing engineering experience • Strong communication skills and ...

Associate degree in engineering discipline with 3-5 years manufacturing experience or in lieu of a degree 6-8 years of manufacturing engineering experience Strong communication skills and ability to ...

Manufacturing Test Process Engineer Pay Rate: $33.00-43.00 per hour Location: Rockford, IL 61016 ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in engineering * Proficient with MS products, Excel, Word, Power ...

Ecolab is seeking an Associate Assembler to join our team in Roscoe, Illinois. In this hands-on ... Lead re-manufacturing tasks-from disassembly and inspection to minor repairs and reassembly ...

Showing results 21-40

Manufacturing Associate information

See Harvard, IL salary details

$11

$19

$31

How much do manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing associate in Harvard, IL is $19.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $22.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing associate?

A manufacturing associate assists in the operations of a manufacturing facility and the products that it produces. As a manufacturing associate, your job duties include organizing supplies and raw materials inventory, preparing equipment, and training staff with preparation and production. You may also investigate the manufacturing process to fix any issues and ensure it meets strict regulations. The qualifications for a career as a manufacturing associate typically include a bachelor’s degree and prior manufacturing experience in a similar industry. You also need computer proficiency, as the job may require daily use of multiple software applications, along with mechanical skills to handle a variety of manufacturing tools and equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manufacturing associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Associate, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and some roles may prefer certifications like OSHA training. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced, collaborative environments. These abilities ensure efficient production, uphold safety standards, and contribute to consistent product quality.

What are some common challenges manufacturing associates face, and how can they be addressed?

Manufacturing Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing production schedules, and ensuring safety in a fast-paced environment. Staying organized, following standardized operating procedures, and communicating effectively with team members can help address these issues. It's also beneficial to actively participate in training programs to stay updated on best practices and safety guidelines, which not only improves performance but can open doors to advancement opportunities within the organization.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Associate vs Production Technician?

AspectManufacturing AssociateProduction Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsFactories, production areas, equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, assembly plantsManufacturing, industrial facilities, production units
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Manufacturing Associates and Production Technicians both work in manufacturing environments, often performing similar tasks such as assembling products, operating machinery, and ensuring quality. The main differences lie in certifications and technical skills; Production Technicians typically require more technical training or certifications and may handle more complex equipment. Both roles are essential in the manufacturing industry and often overlap in daily responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing jobs in Harvard, IL?

The most popular types of Manufacturing jobs in Harvard, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Associate jobs in Harvard, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Associate jobs in Harvard, IL are:

What cities near Harvard, IL are hiring for Manufacturing Associate jobs?

Cities near Harvard, IL with the most Manufacturing Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Associate job openings in Harvard, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,261 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Lean Synergy Solutions

Rockford, IL • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Manufacturing Engineer

Position Summary
We have an immediate opening for a full-time Manufacturing Engineer to support a leading aerospace manufacturing organization. This position is responsible for developing, optimizing, and supporting manufacturing processes for complex machine tool components while driving improvements in quality, cost, safety, and production efficiency.

The Manufacturing Engineer partners with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to evaluate product designs for manufacturability, develop machining processes, create tooling and fixture solutions, support CNC programming, and implement continuous process improvements. This role plays a key part in ensuring reliable, cost-effective manufacturing operations while maintaining the highest standards of quality and precision.

Employment Type: Full-Time

Key Responsibilities

  • Evaluate engineering designs to ensure manufacturability while optimizing cost, quality, safety, and production schedules.
  • Develop and improve manufacturing process plans for complex machined components.
  • Design production tooling, fixtures, and work holding solutions to improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce production costs.
  • Analyze manufacturing process flow and recommend process improvements.
  • Support process planning activities for new and existing products.
  • Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs using CATIA and CAM software.
  • Verify CNC programs using Vericut simulation software.
  • Select cutting tools and establish optimal machining parameters including feeds, speeds, and tooling strategies.
  • Develop setup sheets, tooling documentation, and manufacturing instructions.
  • Collaborate with Engineering to resolve drawing discrepancies and recommend design improvements for manufacturability.
  • Optimize machining processes to improve cycle time, quality, and tool life.
  • Apply fixture design principles for new product introduction and production improvements.
  • Support inspection planning utilizing manual inspection and gauging methods.
  • Develop and maintain Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) documentation.
  • Provide tooling selection, tooling design, and manufacturing quotation support.
  • Utilize Microsoft Office applications to develop reports, spreadsheets, presentations, and manufacturing documentation.
  • Follow ISO quality standards, company procedures, and manufacturing work instructions.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout manufacturing operations.

Required Qualifications

  • Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.
  • Equivalent combination of education and ten (10) or more years of manufacturing engineering experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of manufacturing engineering experience within a precision machining or CNC manufacturing environment.
  • Strong understanding of CNC machining processes and machine tool capabilities.
  • Proficiency in blueprint interpretation, GD&T, trigonometry, decimals, and fractions.
  • Experience with CATIA, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar CAD/CAM software.
  • Experience creating and modifying CNC programs using G & M code.
  • Experience with Vericut or similar CNC simulation software.
  • Strong knowledge of cutting tool technology, tooling selection, and machining optimization.
  • Experience designing manufacturing fixtures and tooling.
  • Knowledge of inspection methods, precision measuring equipment, and quality verification processes.
  • Experience supporting manufacturing quotations and cost reduction initiatives.
  • Strong analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively across multiple departments.
  • Must maintain a professional appearance and conduct.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or possess a valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).

Compensation & Benefits

  • $80,000 - $120,000 (Heavily dependent upon experience)
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and retirement benefits.

Location: Rockford, IL

About Lean Synergy Solutions

Lean Synergy Solutions is a Veteran-owned and operated recruiting firm specializing in connecting highly skilled professionals with mission-critical opportunities across aerospace, manufacturing, defense, government, and industrial sectors. Our team of veterans and industry experts is committed to delivering exceptional talent solutions while supporting veterans, military spouses, transitioning service members, and civilian professionals in achieving long-term career success.

Lean Synergy Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applic