Manufacturing Development Program Jobs in Chicago, IL

About us
Smalley is the global manufacturing leader of precision metal formed products known for our Spirolox retaining rings and Crest-to- Crest wave springs. Our success is propelled by our inventive spirit, devoted team members, extensive engineering proficiency, and technical ability, cultivated by over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We supply to industries including aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, robotics and industrial machinery supporting over 70% of the Fortune 500 global manufacturers. We are proud of our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products, relentless pursuit of improvement, and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service to our valued customers.

Why Smalley?
At Smalley, we take pride in cultivating an inclusive work environment that values creativity, collaboration and diversity. We believe in our associates' unique perspectives that they bring to every challenge, which is why we will empower you to push the boundaries of what is possible. We are committed to nurturing an enjoyable work atmosphere demonstrated through activities such as Spirit Days, Cancer Awareness events, Health and Wellness activities, and fun sports opportunities to play in basketball, bags, and ping pong tournaments!

We Offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits package as well as: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k match, Life insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, PTO, and more!
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth
• Ongoing learning and training and development opportunities
• Company and department led team-building activities and events

Rotational Program Overview
Smalley's Engineering Rotational Development Program is designed for 2026 graduates or recent graduates with 1 to 2 years of experience in Mechanical Engineering or related disciplines who want accelerated, hands-on development in a manufacturing environment.

Program Structure
The Engineering Rotational Development Program is a two-year multi rotation, full time program that includes planned rotations across five core engineering and operations areas, providing broad exposure to how Smalley designs, manufactures, inspects, and delivers its products.

Rotations are structured to:

• Build core engineering and manufacturing knowledge
• Increase understanding of product flow from concept through production
• Develop cross functional communication and problem solving skills
• Prepare participants for long term technical or operational roles within the organization
• At the conclusion of the program, participants transition into a permanent engineering role aligned with demonstrated strengths, interests, and business needs.

Participants will rotate through multiple engineering and operations focused areas, which may include:

• Product Application Design
• Sales Engineering
• Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering and production environments
• Quality Engineering/Quality Systems and inspection operations
• Machine Design, automation and tooling

(Exact rotation assignments may vary based on business needs and individual development goals.)

Learning & Development

• Throughout the program, participants will benefit from:
• Hands on, on site engineering experience
• Exposure to real manufacturing challenges and continuous improvement efforts
• Collaboration with experienced engineers, operations leaders, and cross functional teams
• Ongoing coaching, feedback, and professional development support

The program is intentionally designed to balance technical depth with organizational breadth, enabling participants to understand both the "why" and the "how" behind Smalley's engineering and manufacturing decisions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree (or Master's) in Mechanical Engineering or related degree, graduating in 2026 or 1 to 2 years of post-graduate engineering experience
• Ability to work onsite and engage directly with engineering teams
• Strong communication skills, organizational skills, and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a permanent basis

Preferred qualifications:

• Internship/co-op experience in manufacturing, quality, operations, or industrial engineering
• Exposure to Lean/continuous improvement and basic data analysis
• ERP/MRP exposure (nice-to-have)

Success factors (what great looks like):

• Curious, hands-on learner; comfortable on the floor and in cross-functional conversations
• Structured problem solver; uses data and root-cause thinking
• Strong follow-through; communicates clearly and builds trust

Apply today and discover the opportunities that await you!

A reasonable estimate of the base salary range for this role is $65,000 - $75,000 USD. Please note that actual salaries may vary within the range, or be above or below the range, based on factors including, but not limited to, education, training, experience, professional achievement, business need, and location.This role may be bonus/and or incentive eligible.

EEO/Affirmative Action Smalley is an equal opportunity employer and believes in equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. Accordingly, all employment decisions are based on the principles of equal opportunity. These decisions include recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, discipline, compensation, benefits, training, and other personnel actions involving persons in all job titles and shall occur without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, ancestry, marital status, or any other legally protected class as recognized by applicable law.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental vision, life, accident disability, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, paid holidays, paid time off and 401(k).

*Should you need further assistance to apply to any of our job postings or have any general questions, please contact us at 847-719-5900.