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Manufacturing Systems Engineering Jobs in Illinois

Manufacturing System Engineer

Lombard, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

... systems, controls, or related engineering roles in a regulated manufacturing environment Preferred * Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or digital manufacturing tools * Familiarity ...

Manufacturing System Engineer

Lombard, IL · On-site

$104.70 - $129.70/hr

... systems, controls, or related engineering roles in a regulated manufacturing environment Preferred * Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or digital manufacturing tools * Familiarity ...

... systems, controls, or related engineering roles in a regulated manufacturing environment Preferred * Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or digital manufacturing tools * Familiarity ...

Manufacturing System Engineer

Lombard, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

... systems, controls, or related engineering roles in a regulated manufacturing environment Preferred * Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or digital manufacturing tools * Familiarity ...

Manufacturing Engineering Manager Location: Decatur, IL Travel: Up to 10% Relocation Assistance ... Design and deploy automation systems including robots , AGVs , AMRs , and sensor-based solutions.

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Showing results 1-20

Manufacturing Systems Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$39.2K

$106.8K

$153.6K

How much do manufacturing systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing systems engineering 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 manufacturing systems engineering?

Manufacturing Systems Engineering is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on designing, analyzing, and improving manufacturing systems and processes. It combines principles from mechanical, industrial, and systems engineering to optimize production efficiency, quality, and flexibility. Professionals in this field work on integrating people, machines, materials, information, and energy to create effective manufacturing operations. They may also leverage automation, robotics, and data analytics to enhance productivity and reduce costs.

How does a manufacturing systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during process improvements?

Manufacturing Systems Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from production, quality assurance, supply chain, and IT to implement process improvements. They facilitate communication between departments to ensure that changes are both technically feasible and align with overall business objectives. This collaboration often involves leading meetings, analyzing workflow data, and coordinating the integration of new technologies or systems. Being proactive and adaptable in cross-team environments is essential for driving successful, sustainable improvements.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in industrial or mechanical engineering, systems analysis, and process optimization, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Six Sigma methodologies, and certifications such as Lean Manufacturing or PMP are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and ensuring smooth production flows. These abilities are crucial for improving manufacturing efficiency, reducing costs, and maintaining high-quality standards in competitive industrial environments.

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

AspectManufacturing Systems EngineeringManufacturing Process Engineering
FocusDesign and optimization of entire manufacturing systems, including automation and integrationDevelopment and improvement of specific manufacturing processes and workflows
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in engineering, often with systems or industrial focusBachelor's or master's in engineering, often with process or industrial focus
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, systems design labsFactories, process development labs, production lines
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing sectors for system-level improvementsUsed for process-specific enhancements within manufacturing

Manufacturing Systems Engineering focuses on designing and optimizing entire manufacturing systems, while Manufacturing Process Engineering concentrates on improving specific processes. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in manufacturing environments, but their scope and focus differ significantly.

Is manufacturing systems engineering a high paying job?

Manufacturing systems engineering is generally considered a well-paying profession, with salaries often above the national average for engineering roles. Factors such as experience, certifications, and industry sector can influence earning potential, and the role typically requires knowledge of automation, process optimization, and systems integration.

What does a manufacturing systems engineer do?

A manufacturing systems engineer designs, analyzes, and improves manufacturing processes and systems to increase efficiency, quality, and safety. They often use tools like CAD software and data analysis, and may work on automation, production planning, and process optimization to ensure smooth operations in manufacturing environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Systems Engineering jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Systems Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Systems Engineering 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.

Sr Principal Engineer Manufacturing Systems

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site


Northrop Grumman Corporation
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 365 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Manufacturing Engineering is seeking a Sr Principal Manufacturing Systems Engineer (MSE) to join our Operations Team based in Rolling Meadows, IL.
The Manufacturing Systems Engineer will be responsible for shaping and executing the Product Line strategy as well as consulting as a subject matter expert on capital projects, MTA and IRAD efforts.
This requisition is for multiple Manufacturing Systems Engineer roles:
  • The first role will be an MSE for the Infrared Counter Measure (IRCM) product line
  • The second role will be an MSE for the Radio Frequency Counter Measure (RFCM) product line

What you will get to do:
  • Engage with the program teams during pre-proposal, proposal, and early execution program phases to offer insight into higher yielding, novel, and evolving manufacturing processes.
  • Develop a Manufacturing Plan for each phase of the program
  • Perform a Manufacturing Readiness Assessment (MRA)
  • Lead design for automation efforts
  • Cost Modeling and Design to Cost activities
  • Deploy digital transformation of MSE work products for the use of efficient and successful manufacturing planning
  • Identify producibility gaps between current and required capabilities for executing on new hardware, then developing Manufacturing Maturity Plans (MMP) to address these gaps. MMPs will include but not be limited to execution of Affordability, Manufacturing Planning, NCTA Planning, Capital Planning and Strategic Sourcing Efforts.
  • Ensure success of critical Technology Demonstrator builds in the factory for IRCM programs
  • Establishment of NCTA, CRAD, and Capital funding plans that ensure execution readiness for IRCM programs in the factory and supply base

The Manufacturing Systems Engineering must perform in a fast-paced, dynamic, and high visibility operation. They must be able to communicate written and verbally, have a passion for people, innovation, and excellence, along with the ability to effectively collaborate with multiple disciplines to solve complex issues.
The ideal candidate will:
  • Effectively communicate technical information both written and verbally
  • Possess demonstrated Project Management skills

Basic Qualifications for the Sr Principal Manufacturing Systems Engineering:
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related STEM field and a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience; OR 6 or more years or relevant work experience with a Master's degree.
  • Demonstrated experience developing and improving manufacturing assembly or test processes for complex hardware
  • Experience in manufacturing system engineering processes and products throughout the program life cycle, as well as providing technical leadership and guidance.
  • Experience with NCTA, CRAD, or Capital project including submittal and execution.
  • Experience with gated development processes and major program reviews (e.g., SRR, PDR, CDR, PRR).
  • Experience working in cross-functional teams (Design, Quality, Operations, Supply Chain).
  • Experience with Risk and Opportunity identification including mitigation and management
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Sr Principal Manufacturing Systems Engineering:
  • 5 or more years of manufacturing engineering related experience
  • Experience with Line Replaceable Units (LRU) manufacturing
  • Experience with new product development
  • Experience with any of the following: AS6500, Manufacturing Readiness Assessments, Requirements Traceability and Validation, Value Stream Mapping, Factory Mod-Sim, Root Cause Corrective Action, Manufacturing processes and methods, Cost Engineering, Proposal/BOE experience, Design to Cost understanding, Life Cycle Cost Modeling, Design for Manufacturing, Design for Automation, Producibility, or Design for Additive
  • Active Secret Clearance.

What We Can Offer You:
Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.
Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!
#MPR
Primary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939


What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

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