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Process Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer R & D

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PURPOSE OF THE JOB The R&D Process Engineer (MPI) is a hands-on technical role responsible for developing, scaling, and industrializing new materials, formulations, and manufacturing processes for ...

Lead Engineer, Chemical Process Engineering

Aurora, IL · On-site

$114K - $142K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Lead Engineer, Chemical Process Engineering The Role Entegris is currently seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Chemical Process Engineering to join our Manufacturing Engineering team. This ...

Senior Process Engineer (Cold Forming)

Geneva, IL · On-site

$95K - $150K/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Amsted Automotive is looking for a Cold forming Engineers Specializing in Design and/or Process to support continued growth across our Burgess Norton and SMW divisions. We offer opportunities to be ...

Process and Quality Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Department Overview Process Engineering is a group within the manufacturing engineering and quality team supporting the entire manufacturing operation. In this role of Process and Quality Engineer ...

Process and Quality Engineer

Elgin, IL

$65K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Department Overview Process Engineering is a group within the manufacturing engineering and quality team supporting the entire manufacturing operation. In this role of Process and Quality Engineer ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL

$80K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, 401(k) with match This Manufacturing Process Engineer role is a hands-on position supporting electronics manufacturing operations. You will act as the key link between ...

Principal Polymer Engineer - CMP Pads

Aurora, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Principal Polymer Engineer - CMP Pads The Role Entegris is seeking a highly experienced and ... Apply deep expertise in polymer science and structure-property-process relationships to develop ...

Principal Polymer Engineer - CMP Pads

Aurora, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Lead investigations into material, process, and product performance challenges across development and manufacturing environments. * Apply first-principlesthinking, Design of Experiments (DOE ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

The engineer will lead process improvement initiatives, support new product introductions and material trials, troubleshoot production issues, and provide technical leadership for manufacturing ...

Showing results 21-40

Process Engineer information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$48.6K

$90.3K

$139.9K

How much do process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineer in DeKalb, IL is $90,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $101,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of a process engineer?

A process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze production workflows, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements using tools like process flow diagrams and statistical analysis. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of industry standards are essential for this role.

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 is a process engineer?

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 jobs do process engineers do?

Process engineers design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, safety, and quality. They analyze production data, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements using tools like process flow diagrams and statistical analysis. Their work often involves collaboration with production teams and requires knowledge of engineering principles and industry standards.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Process Engineer jobs in DeKalb, IL?

For Process Engineer jobs in DeKalb, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Process Engineer jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Process Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Process Engineer job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,315 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Process Engineer R & D

Owens Corning

West Chicago, IL • On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Owens Corning rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

PURPOSE OF THE JOB
The R&D Process Engineer (MPI) is a hands-on technical role responsible for developing, scaling, and industrializing new materials, formulations, and manufacturing processes for wood fiber and composite door products. This role sits at the critical interface between R&D and Operations, owning the transition from lab and pilot validation to full scale manufacturing, while ensuring process robustness, safety, quality, and cost effectiveness. Success in this role requires strong experimental discipline, plant level troubleshooting capability, and the ability to translate data into executable manufacturing solutions.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Process & Technology Development
  • Lead scale-up of new formulations, materials, and processes from lab and pilot equipment to full scale production lines
  • Translate R&D learnings into manufacturing ready process windows, control plans, and operating standards

Data Driven Problem Solving & Optimization
  • Lead structured root cause analysis using DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, and Lean methodologies
  • Diagnose and resolve process instability, quality defects, yield loss, and throughput limitations
  • Design, execute, and document plant trials, including clear hypotheses, success criteria, and conclusions
  • Use statistical and process data to drive decisions-not assumptions

Manufacturing & Plant Interface
  • Provide direct technical support to manufacturing teams during trials, startups, and sustained production
  • Partner with Operations to implement process improvements, debottlenecking, and other process related initiatives
  • Ensure smooth transfer from development into operations, including training, documentation, and risk mitigation
  • Travel to manufacturing sites as needed to support trials and troubleshooting

Safety, Compliance & Sustainability
  • Ensure all development and manufacturing activities comply with Owens Corning safety standards and regulatory requirements
  • Embed Design for Safety and risk assessment into all new process development

Project Execution & Collaboration
  • Manage process development and capital projects from concept through implementation. Own end to end execution of process development and scale up projects, from concept through pilot validation and manufacturing implementation
  • Plan and execute plant trials and process changes, including coordination of resources, materials, equipment availability, and cross functional support
  • Track and manage project risks, assumptions, and dependencies, escalating issues early with clear data-based recommendations
  • Collaborate cross functionally with R&D, Design, Quality, Operations, Maintenance, and Sourcing
  • Communicate technical results clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including leadership
  • Ensure projects transition smoothly from development into operations with clear documentation, training, and ownership handoff

JOB REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field
  • 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering, or industrial R&D
  • Demonstrated experience scaling processes from lab or pilot to production
  • Strong working knowledge of DOE, SPC, and structured problem-solving tools
  • Proven ability to work hands-on in manufacturing environments, not just in labs
  • Strong technical writing, documentation, and communication skills

Preferred Experience
  • Experience with wood fiber, composites, polymers, resins, adhesives, or press-based manufacturing
  • Familiarity with continuous or batch manufacturing processes
  • Experience supporting plant trials, startups, or technology transfers
  • Background in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma
  • Comfort working in ambiguity and early-stage development environments

The base salary range for this position is $78,000 to $100,000, with the potential for up to an additional 10+% if the applicant hired has additional related qualifications. We also offer a substantial benefits package including insurance (medical/dental/vision/life/disability/supplemental offerings), 401k (company contribution regardless of employee participation - plus match), paid time off that considers full professional tenure (vacation, personal floating and standard holidays), Employee Assistance Services, Stock Purchase Program - and more.
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About Owens Corning
Owens Corning is a branded building products leader with three complementary market-leading businesses providing roofing, insulation, and doors primarily for residential markets in North America and Europe. The company operates with an integrated go-to-market strategy and a unique set of OC Advantages™ - including its iconic brand, unparalleled commercial strength, leading technology, and winning cost position - to help customers win and grow in the market. Owens Corning is committed to helping build better and achieve more through winning partnerships, leading performance, and engaging people. Founded in 1938 and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: OC). For more information, visit www.owenscorning.com.
Owens Corning is an equal opportunity employer. Except in limited circumstances such as formal apprenticeship programs, Owens Corning does not employ anyone under the age of 18.

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About OWENS CORNING

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Owens Corning (OC) develops, manufactures and markets insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. Global in scope and human in scale, the company's market-leading businesses use their deep expertise in materials, manufacturing and building science to develop products and systems that save energy and improve comfort in commercial and residential buildings. Through its glass reinforcements business, the company makes thousands of products lighter, stronger and more durable. Ultimately, Owens Corning people and products make the world a better place. Based in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning posted 2017 sales of $6.4 billion and employs 19,000 people in 37 countries. It has been a Fortune 500® company for 64 consecutive years. For more information, please visit www.owenscorning.com. A career at Owens Corning offers the ability to enhance your expertise and achieve your personal and professional aspirations. Through it all, we'll empower you with an environment that encourages open communication and big ideas, competitive pay for your performance, comprehensive benefits, and more opportunities to make your impact.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Toledo, OH, US

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