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Manufacturing Process Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Required Qualifications: * 2-10 years of experience in Manufacturing Engineering, preferably in Pack/Module assembly processes. * BS/MS/PhD in Mechanical/Industrial/Chemical/Materials Engineering.

The Manufacturing Process Engineer plans, directs, and coordinates manufacturing processes ... Provides engineering support in production departments by trouble shooting and resolving technical ...

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Addison, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $130K/yr

The Manufacturing Process Engineer plans, directs, and coordinates manufacturing processes ... Provides engineering support in production departments by trouble shooting and resolving technical ...

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Manteno, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Required Qualifications: * 2-10 years of experience in Manufacturing Engineering, preferably in Pack/Module assembly processes. * BS/MS/PhD in Mechanical/Industrial/Chemical/Materials Engineering.

Key Responsibilities Assist the manufacturing team in evaluating and defining process flows, equipment selection, and technical documentation for new or existing production lines. Support engineering ...

Process Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Capability to independently or together with other engineering stakeholders identify root causes of failures in the manufacturing process. * Advanced troubleshooting of complex mechanical issues with ...

Capability to independently or together with other engineering stakeholders identify root causes of failures in the manufacturing process. * Advanced troubleshooting of complex mechanical issues with ...

Ensure alignment of process designs with manufacturing requirements, regulatory expectations, and corporate engineering standards. * Drive cross-functional integration between engineering, operations ...

Ensure alignment of process designs with manufacturing requirements, regulatory expectations, and corporate engineering standards. * Drive cross-functional integration between engineering, operations ...

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Showing results 1-20

Manufacturing Process Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52K

$90.9K

$130.8K

How much do manufacturing process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing process engineering in Chicago, IL is $90,852.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing process engineers when implementing process improvements?

Manufacturing process engineers often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from production teams, balancing cost constraints with quality improvements, and integrating new technologies into existing workflows. They must also ensure that process modifications do not disrupt ongoing production or compromise safety standards. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential for gaining buy-in from stakeholders and successfully implementing changes.

What does a process engineer do in manufacturing?

A manufacturing process engineer designs, develops, and improves production processes to increase efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze workflow, select appropriate equipment, and implement process controls, often using tools like CAD and statistical analysis. Their work ensures manufacturing operations run smoothly and meet quality standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In manufacturing process engineering, senior-level engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like automation, robotics, or process optimization can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-cost regions or large corporations. Such roles often require leadership responsibilities, certifications, and a strong track record of improving manufacturing efficiency.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Process Engineering vs Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectManufacturing Process EngineeringManufacturing Engineering
FocusDesigning and optimizing manufacturing processesOverseeing overall manufacturing systems and production
ResponsibilitiesProcess development, process improvement, troubleshootingProduction planning, equipment selection, workflow management
CredentialsEngineering degree, process certificationsEngineering degree, manufacturing certifications
Work EnvironmentProcess labs, manufacturing plantsFactories, production lines

Manufacturing Process Engineering primarily focuses on developing and refining manufacturing processes to improve efficiency and quality. Manufacturing Engineering has a broader scope, overseeing entire production systems. Both roles require engineering backgrounds and often work closely within manufacturing industries.

What is the highest paying job in manufacturing?

In manufacturing process engineering, senior roles such as Manufacturing Director or Plant Manager often have the highest salaries, especially in large facilities or multinational companies. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of production systems and automation technologies.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior manufacturing process engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation and process optimization, and often holding specialized certifications can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large corporations. Achieving this level typically requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership roles, and sometimes stock options or bonuses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manufacturing Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Process Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process optimization, and quality control, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing methodologies, and familiarity with ERP systems are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and drive process improvements. These competencies are crucial for increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring product quality in competitive manufacturing environments.

What is manufacturing process engineering?

Manufacturing process engineering is a specialized field focused on designing, analyzing, and improving the processes used to produce goods in factories or plants. Process engineers develop efficient methods for transforming raw materials into finished products, often working to optimize quality, cost, and productivity. Their responsibilities include selecting equipment, designing workflows, troubleshooting production issues, and implementing new technologies. Ultimately, their goal is to ensure manufacturing operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently.
What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? For Manufacturing Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Process Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 77% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,852 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

North Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$100K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Title: Sr. Process Engineer SME โ€“ Biologics/API
Location: North Chicago IL.
Hire Type: Contract
Shift: 1st Standard business hours
Compensation:70-80/hr

Benefits:
As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan.

Must Have Skill Set:
10+ years of process engineering experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, biotech, or API manufacturing environments
Strong GMP manufacturing process knowledge
Experience supporting capital projects and process improvements
Process engineering SME / technical leadership experience
Strong cross-functional communication and stakeholder management skills
Bachelorโ€™s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or related technical discipline

Overview:
We are seeking a Senior Process Engineer SME to provide technical process engineering leadership across biologics and pharmaceutical manufacturing projects. This individual will serve as the primary process subject matter expert, supporting engineering teams, project managers, manufacturing operations, and technical stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. The role is focused on providing technical guidance and manufacturing process expertise for capital projects, process improvements, facility expansions, equipment implementation, and operational readiness activities within GMP-regulated environments.
Job Duties:
Provide technical leadership and process engineering expertise across multiple manufacturing projects and initiatives
Serve as the primary process engineering SME supporting biologics and/or API manufacturing operations
Support process design reviews, equipment selection, and manufacturing strategy discussions
Collaborate cross-functionally with project management, operations, quality, validation, automation, and engineering teams
Review and support process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, equipment layouts, and utility integration plans
Support manufacturing process optimization, troubleshooting, and risk mitigation activities
Participate in commissioning, startup, and operational readiness activities as needed
Ensure compliance with GMP standards, process requirements, and manufacturing best practices
Provide technical guidance during process changes, facility expansions, and technology transfer activities
Support communication between technical teams and project execution stakeholders
Identify and help resolve process-related project risks and execution challenges
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
Bachelorโ€™s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or related technical discipline
10+ years of experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, biotech, or API manufacturing environments
Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and GMP operations
Experience supporting capital projects and manufacturing process improvement initiatives
Ability to provide technical leadership across engineering, operations, and project teams
Strong communication, stakeholder management, and technical leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience supporting biologics manufacturing, including upstream/downstream processing, fermentation, or purification systems
Experience with large-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing projects or facility expansions
Knowledge of commissioning, qualification, startup, and manufacturing readiness activities
Familiarity with process equipment, utilities, automation, and manufacturing systems integration
Previous experience acting as a process SME or technical lead on complex manufacturing projects
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national