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Manufacturing Tech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Dixon, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

Evaluate, justify, implement automation, manufacturing technologies, and process improvements to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance. * Use lean manufacturing principals to ...

Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Manufacturing, IT, Engineering, and R&D teams to drive digital manufacturing and operational efficiency initiatives. * Develop and maintain data solutions ...

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Harwood Heights, IL · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Responsible for keeping abreast of current developments in manufacturing technology and their incorporation thereof as deemed appropriate for company operations. * Perform other related duties as ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Geneva, IL · On-site

$71K - $91K/yr

Responsible for automation design and product/process flow including ergonomic considerations, lean manufacturing technology, mechanical design, electrical component usage & system logic, changeover ...

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Manufacturing Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$20

$37

How much do manufacturing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing tech in Illinois is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Tech, you need a solid understanding of mechanical processes, equipment operation, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with manufacturing software, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for identifying issues and maintaining productivity. These abilities ensure efficient production, minimize downtime, and uphold safety and product quality standards.

How does a manufacturing tech typically interact with engineers and other departments during a production shift?

Manufacturing Techs work closely with engineers, quality assurance, and maintenance teams to ensure production runs smoothly. They often collaborate to troubleshoot equipment issues, implement process improvements, and maintain product quality standards. Effective communication is key, as Manufacturing Techs relay observations and data to support decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives. This teamwork helps maintain efficient operations and minimizes downtime on the production floor.

What does a manufacturing technician do?

A manufacturing technician operates and maintains machinery used in production processes, monitors quality control, and ensures safety standards are followed. They often work with tools, equipment, and may require certifications or training in specific manufacturing systems. Their role supports efficient and safe production in industrial settings.

What is a manufacturing tech?

Manufacturing Techs, or Manufacturing Technicians, are professionals who operate, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment used in the production of goods. They ensure machines run efficiently, perform quality checks, and may help with assembly or packaging tasks. Manufacturing Techs play a key role in keeping the production process smooth and addressing any technical issues that arise. Their work supports meeting production targets and maintaining safety and quality standards in manufacturing facilities.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Tech vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectManufacturing TechMaintenance Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often required
Work EnvironmentFactory floors, production lines, manufacturing plantsFactories, industrial facilities, equipment maintenance areas
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assembly linesEquipment maintenance, repair, troubleshooting
Job FocusOperating machinery, quality control, process improvementMaintaining, repairing, troubleshooting machinery and equipment

Manufacturing Technicians focus on operating and optimizing manufacturing processes, while Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and often require similar certifications and work settings.

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Tech job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,221 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Manufacturing Solutions Strategy Lead

KAIZEN TECHNOLOGIES INC

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description


Job Title :Manufacturing Solutions Strategy Lead
Loaction: Midwest , Illinois (Chicago area), Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota (Onsite)
Type: Contract
Responsibilities
·        Develop IT strategy for application and infrastructure architecture supporting greenfield manufacturing sites.
·        Define future-state technology roadmaps that align business objectives, manufacturing capabilities, compliance requirements, and enterprise standards.
·        Lead early-stage solutioning for site buildouts and, where required, technology separation during manufacturing acquisitions.
·        Collaborate with architects across the BTO to develop integrated solution plans and decision options.
·        Assess technology needs for manufacturing sites, including applications, infrastructure, networks, platforms, and supporting services.
·        Identify dependencies, risks, assumptions, and implementation considerations that inform business and IT decisions.
·        Present strategic recommendations and practical implementation pathways to stakeholders and leadership.
·        Work across manufacturing, quality, engineering, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and application teams to ensure solutions are feasible and scalable.
·        Ensure alignment with Fortune 10 Mid west pharma company standards, regulatory requirements, and architecture principles.
·        Contribute to planning for future manufacturing technology capabilities and modernization.
Qualifications
·        Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
·        Strong experience in IT architecture, infrastructure strategy, application strategy, or manufacturing technology planning.
·        Experience supporting manufacturing environments, preferably in regulated industries.
·        Experience with greenfield site planning or technology separation efforts strongly preferred.
·        Demonstrated ability to translate strategy into actionable solution plans.
·        Strong collaboration and influencing skills across architects, technical teams, and business stakeholders.
·        Excellent written and oral communication skills.
·        Ability to operate in ambiguity and shape complex concepts into practical plans.
Preferred Attributes
·       Strategic thinker with a practical, delivery-oriented mindset.
·       Strong understanding of manufacturing site technology dependencies and operational readiness.
·       Ability to influence without direct authority and build consensus across diverse teams.
·       Comfortable operating in ambiguity and shaping early-stage concepts into actionable plans.