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Process Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Process Engineer assists plant leadership and works collaboratively with all other departments to maintain the flow of work in the process molding lines, ensuring customer products are being ...

Position Summary The Process Engineer is responsible for standardizing global manufacturing processes, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring operational excellence across extrusion, blending ...

Process Engineer The Process Engineer designs, analyzes, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality in a hands-on shop floor environment. This role focuses ...

The Process Engineer assists plant leadership and works collaboratively with all other departments to maintain the flow of work in the process molding lines, ensuring customer products are being ...

Process Engineer

Alsip, IL · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

The Process Engineer at the Alsip Mini Mill will be responsible for optimizing production processes, improving product quality, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting continuous improvement ...

Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

The Process Engineer works closely with production, quality, maintenance, and engineering teams to standardize manufacturing processes and implement Lean and Six Sigma best practices. Essential ...

The Process Engineer works closely with production, quality, maintenance, and engineering teams to standardize manufacturing processes and implement Lean and Six Sigma best practices. Essential ...

Growing Manufacturing Company in Butte, Montana has a need for a Process Engineer. This is a direct hire role with a full benefits package and relocation. Prefer a B.S. in Engineering, and a minimum ...

The Process Engineer at the Alsip Mini Mill will be responsible for optimizing production processes, improving product quality, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting continuous improvement ...

The Process Engineer III will be responsible for routine process engineering and design tasks for assigned projects based on specific and detailed instructions received from the assigned supervisor.

The Process Engineer II will be responsible for routine process engineering and design tasks for assigned projects based on specific and detailed instructions received from the assigned supervisor.

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining automated processes and equipment. Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities: * Lead development, implementation, and optimization ...

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining automated processes and equipment. Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities: * Lead development, implementation, and optimization ...

Engineer III Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$106K - $149K/yr

The Process Engineer III will be responsible for routine process engineering and design tasks for assigned projects based on specific and detailed instructions received from the assigned supervisor.

Job Purpose and Impact The Process Engineer will apply process and project engineering techniques to assist in the improvement of Starch processes and products. In this role, you will provide ...

Process Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing Pay Based on Experience | Full-Time We're looking for a hands-on Process Engineer to support the production of advanced ceramic and inorganic materials in a ...

This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. Develop solutions to problems that adversely affect the APET processes in the Franklin Park IL plant. Provide technical advice ...

This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. • Develop solutions to problems that adversely affect the APET processes in the Franklin Park IL plant. • Provide technical advice ...

This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. · Develop solutions to problems that adversely affect the APET processes in the Franklin Park IL plant. · Provide technical advice ...

This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. Develop solutions to problems that adversely affect the APET processes in the Franklin Park IL plant. Provide technical advice ...

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Showing results 1-20

Process Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51K

$94.9K

$146.9K

How much do process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineer in Chicago, IL is $94,866.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $106,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Process Engineers face when implementing process improvements, and how can they overcome them?

Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from team members, integrating new technologies with existing systems, and ensuring process changes meet regulatory standards. Overcoming these obstacles typically involves clear communication, involving stakeholders early in the process, thorough documentation, and piloting changes before full-scale implementation. Building strong cross-functional relationships and continuously gathering feedback also help ensure that improvements are effective and sustainable.

What are Process Engineers?

Process Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and optimize industrial processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing or production environments. They analyze workflows, troubleshoot process issues, and develop solutions to enhance productivity and reduce costs. Process Engineers often work in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and energy, ensuring processes are compliant with environmental and safety regulations. Their work is vital for maintaining smooth operations and achieving organizational goals.

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

To thrive as a Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and understanding of process optimization principles. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or AutoCAD), Six Sigma methodologies, and quality management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to improve efficiency, ensure safety, and drive continuous improvement in industrial and manufacturing processes.

What is the role of a process engineer?

A process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze production data, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements using tools like Six Sigma and CAD software, often working in industrial or manufacturing environments. Certification such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license can enhance career prospects.

What is the difference between Process Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectProcess EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Lean Manufacturing
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing processes, R&D settingsOverseeing production lines, factory floors
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, aerospaceAutomotive, electronics, consumer goods

Process Engineers focus on designing and improving manufacturing processes, often working in R&D or engineering departments. Manufacturing Engineers concentrate on implementing and managing production on the factory floor. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ mainly in their scope and work environment.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, software, aerospace, and chemical engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. These roles typically require specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and sometimes professional certifications like PE or PMP.

What Is a Process Engineer?

As a process engineer, often called a chemical engineer, you are responsible for creating efficient manufacturing processes in the manufacturing industry. You will evaluate current chemical processes and modify them as needed to ensure efficiency and profitability are maximized. You will also monitor processes for safety and environmental impact and seek to improve them whenever possible. Your responsibilities may vary depending on the particular industry in which you work and specialized skills sets may be required.

What do process engineers actually do?

Process engineers design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze production data, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements using tools like process flow diagrams and control systems, often working closely with production teams and utilizing industry standards. Their role ensures that manufacturing operations run smoothly and meet quality and safety standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Process Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,866 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Process Engineer

$96K - $119K/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Pretium Packaging rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 112 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Grow boldly with Pretium!

Pretium Packaging is searching for a talented, hands-on Process Engineer for our plant in St. Charles, Illinois.

About Us:

Pretium Packaging, founded in 1992, is a leading supplier of injection-blow molded plastic containers, known for delivering superior quality, value, and customer service. With 20 manufacturing locations across North America, we provide innovative, high-performance packaging solutions to a diverse portfolio of brand owners in the U.S. and Canada.

What You’ll Be Responsible For:

The Process Engineer assists plant leadership and works collaboratively with all other departments to maintain the flow of work in the process molding lines, ensuring customer products are being produced in accordance with required specifications and quality standards. The Process Engineer will analyze process defects and find solutions. arriving at acceptable quality level throughout the process,

What you’ll do:

  • Start up new and existing equipment, check out system for proper operation, calibrate equipment, perform loop checks, troubleshoot, and resolve system problems.
  • Respond to emergency work order requests, troubleshoot, and analyze systems, investigate the nature of the problems, check for software and hardware defects and verify equipment for proper operation.
  • Direct the installation of new systems to ensure specification and safety compliance by personnel and vendors.
  • Define internal quality control plan including gauging methods and frequency of inspection.
  • Assist production with new project set-ups, tool changes and program adjustments.
  • Troubleshoot problems related to the production process, recommend alternatives to meet planned production schedules and ensure product quality standards are maintained.
  • Modify existing systems, redesign software and system circuitry as necessary to meet project objectives.       
  • Recommend improvements to encourage safe and reliable equipment operation on newly installed equipment.
  • Review and analyze daily check sheets for accuracy and to determine operating problems and required corrective action.
  • Monitor and ensure changeovers are completed as scheduled and in a proper manner.
  • Check and ensure preventive maintenance procedures are performed as scheduled and are accurately documented.
  • Maintain good housekeeping conditions and safe operating practices in the department.
  • Ensure weekly setup sheets are completed for all lines and preview for deviations from standards and follow up as necessary.
  • Investigate and resolve product quality problems as required.
  • Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment breakdowns and replace and rebuild machine components as needed.
  • Set up molding machines and trimmer, align and install molds, set and adjust time cycles, air pressures and water temperatures, position labeler, change over and adjust reamer, trim stations, material inspection system, and adjust sequence timing for all operations.
  • Coordinate the implementation of production schedules in the most efficient and productive manner.
  • Recommend and implement improvements to machine line operations to increase productivity and improve product quality.
  • Perform processing for new molds/tooling establishing run perimeters for best efficiency.

What you’ll bring:

  • Bachelor’s or associate’s degree in mechanical/plastics engineering or related field.
  • Reheat blow process and automation experience
  • Experience with the following manufacturers of machinery: Siapi, Sidel, Cipa and 1Blow
  • Root cause analysis and trouble-shooting experience
  • Experience with setting oven profiles
  • Infeed and outfeed conveyor experience
  • Effective leadership skills, strong decision-making skills, and ability to lead and drive project teams.
  • Well organized, accurate and attention to detail with the ability to lead and drive project teams.
  • Training or experience in Lean Manufacturing practices.
  • Able to travel and train as need throughout the region.

Why Join Pretium?

At Pretium Packaging, we manufacture rigid plastic containers for some of the most recognized brands in the marketplace. Our plants operate with a strong emphasis on safety, performance, and continuous improvement.


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