1

Manufacturing Systems Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$97K - $120K/yr

System Engineer CNC Machine Tool Commissioning Position Summary We have an immediate opening for a ... The ideal candidate thrives in hands-on manufacturing environments, enjoys solving complex ...

Systems Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$97K - $120K/yr

System Engineer CNC Machine Tool Commissioning Position Summary We have an immediate opening for a ... The ideal candidate thrives in hands-on manufacturing environments, enjoys solving complex ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Dixon, IL · On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

Provide Manufacturing Engineering input during product line start-ups and upgrading of existing ... Design tools, jigs, fixtures, and complete manufacturing systems up to and including all existing ...

Systems Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

... and manufacturing facility in Mossville, IL. This is a full-time position with a full benefit ... Systems Engineer This position will apply the principles of computer science and mathematical ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Moline, IL · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Support manufacturing systems including SAP, MES, and other production databases . * Ensure manufacturing processes meet safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. * Provide hands-on engineering ...

New

Systems Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

... and manufacturing facility in Mossville, IL. This is a full-time position with a full benefit ... A typical systems engineer analyzes user needs, and then designs, tests, and develops software to ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

... systems. Why Engineering Professionals Choose AAA USA: * Competitive Pay. * Paid Lodging. * Long‑Term Manufacturing Programs. * Multiple U.S. Locations. * Relocation Assistance Available.

... manufacturing systems. Why Engineering Professionals Choose AAA USA: * Competitive Pay. * Paid Lodging. * Long-Term Manufacturing Programs. * Multiple U.S. Locations. * Relocation Assistance ...

Lead MES (Manufacturing Execution System) requirements analysis, solution architecture design ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical ...

Senior Systems Integration Engineer Do you want to be a part of something innovative, relevant, and ... About MxD MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) advances economic prosperity and national security by ...

Showing results 21-40

Manufacturing Systems Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$39.2K

$106.8K

$153.6K

How much do manufacturing systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing systems engineer in Illinois is $106,802.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $138,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing systems engineer?

Manufacturing Systems Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and optimize integrated systems used in manufacturing processes. They work to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity by analyzing workflows, selecting appropriate technologies, and ensuring systems work seamlessly together. Their role often involves coordinating between different departments, troubleshooting system issues, and implementing automation or process improvements. They play a key part in modernizing manufacturing operations and ensuring products are made efficiently and to high standards.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in industrial or manufacturing engineering, process optimization, and analytical problem-solving, usually backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, automation tools, and certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing are typically required. Strong project management, communication, and teamwork skills help you collaborate across departments and drive continuous improvement initiatives. These competencies are crucial for optimizing production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and supporting the overall success of manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing systems engineers when integrating new technologies into existing production lines?

Manufacturing Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new technologies and legacy equipment, minimizing production downtime during upgrades, and training staff to effectively use new systems. They must carefully plan and coordinate with cross-functional teams—including production, IT, and quality assurance—to address potential disruptions and maintain product quality. Effective communication and thorough testing are key to a smooth integration process.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Systems Engineer vs Manufacturing Process Engineer?

AspectManufacturing Systems EngineerManufacturing Process Engineer
Primary FocusDesign, optimize, and integrate manufacturing systems and automationDevelop and improve manufacturing processes and workflows
Skills & CertificationsSystems engineering, automation, PLC programming, CADProcess analysis, Lean, Six Sigma, CAD
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation labsProduction lines, process development areas
Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, industrial engineeringManufacturing, process improvement, quality control

While both roles support manufacturing efficiency, Manufacturing Systems Engineers focus on integrating and automating entire systems, whereas Manufacturing Process Engineers concentrate on refining specific production processes. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Manufacturing Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Systems Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,802 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer - Direct Hire

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Buffalo Grove, IL

$86K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Troubleshoot and support high-speed automated manufacturing equipment focusing on controls, automation, and manufacturing systems.

  • Diagnose PLC, HMI, and automation-related issues to minimize equipment downtime and improve production performance.

  • Support and optimize machine vision systems, including Cognex inspection equipment, and collaborate with teams to resolve technical issues and implement process improvements.


Job description

Manufacturing Engineer – Controls & Automation
Location: Buffalo Grove, IL
Hire Type: Contract
Compensation: 85k-105k
Schedule: Full-Time | 100% Onsite
Position Overview
We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer with a strong controls and automation background to support a highly automated medical device manufacturing operation in Buffalo Grove, IL. This position will focus on troubleshooting and optimizing high-speed automated production systems, supporting PLC-controlled equipment, machine vision systems, and manufacturing software while partnering closely with internal engineering teams, quality, and external equipment vendors.
The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience with industrial automation, PLC troubleshooting, HMI systems, and machine vision technologies. This individual will play a key role in improving equipment reliability, supporting new equipment initiatives, and driving continuous improvement across automated manufacturing operations.
Key Responsibilities
Troubleshoot and support high-speed automated manufacturing equipment with a focus on controls, automation, and manufacturing systems.
Diagnose PLC, HMI, and automation-related issues to minimize equipment downtime and improve production performance.
Support and optimize machine vision systems, including Cognex inspection equipment.
Work with Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLC platforms to troubleshoot, modify, and improve automated manufacturing systems.
Collaborate with customer engineering teams, internal manufacturing engineering, quality, maintenance, and equipment vendors to resolve technical issues and implement process improvements.
Support automated manufacturing software, controls integration, and system performance optimization.
Participate in equipment upgrades, commissioning, validation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Analyze equipment performance and implement corrective actions to improve reliability, throughput, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Develop and maintain technical documentation, troubleshooting procedures, and engineering change documentation.
Provide engineering support for new automation projects and manufacturing process improvements.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline, or equivalent experience.
Experience supporting high-speed automated manufacturing equipment.
Hands-on experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled machinery.
Experience with Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLC platforms.
Strong knowledge of industrial automation systems, controls architecture, and manufacturing software.
Experience supporting Cognex machine vision systems.
Ability to troubleshoot electrical controls, automation hardware, sensors, and production equipment.
Experience working within a regulated manufacturing environment such as medical device, pharmaceutical, or food manufacturing.
Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across engineering, quality, operations, and external vendors.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with HMI and SCADA systems.
Knowledge of servo systems, industrial networking, and motion control.
Experience supporting automated inspection and serialization systems.
Familiarity with equipment validation and change control within regulated manufacturing.
Experience working with OEMs and equipment suppliers during troubleshooting and system improvements.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a hands-on automation engineer who enjoys solving complex controls and manufacturing systems challenges. They have strong PLC troubleshooting skills, experience with Cognex vision systems, and thrive in a collaborative environment where they work closely with customer engineering teams, quality, and equipment vendors to maximize equipment reliability and production performance. Experience supporting high-speed automated manufacturing within a medical device, pharmaceutical, or food manufacturing environment is highly preferred.