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Process Optimization Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Barry Callebaut

Engineer, Process

Robinson, IL · On-site

Responsible for process design, equipment specification, and process optimization to improve ... Develop engineering documentation, including reports, flow diagrams, and performance charts

Combined Metals

Process Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Metallurgical Engineering, Material Engineering/Science, or a ... Excellent knowledge of process optimization techniques * Familiarity with industry regulations and ...

Gotion, Inc.

Process Engineer Intern

Manteno, IL · On-site

$20/hr

This role provides hands-on exposure to manufacturing operations, process optimization, equipment introduction, and quality control systems. The intern will work closely with engineers and production ...

3M

Sr Industrial Engineer, Optimization

Dekalb, IL · Hybrid

$42 - $57.50/hr

Job Title Sr Industrial Engineer, Optimization Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World ... Identify, analyze, and lead improvement projects across distribution centers, focusing on process ...

3M

Sr Industrial Engineer, Optimization

Dekalb, IL · On-site

$42 - $57.50/hr

Job Title Sr Industrial Engineer, Optimization Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World ... Identify, analyze, and lead improvement projects across distribution centers, focusing on process ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Schaumburg, IL

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze influent wastewater ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization:Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze influent wastewater ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze influent wastewater ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze influent wastewater ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze influent wastewater ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 4+ years of ...

fairlife

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

The Sr. Dairy Processing Engineer will come in with deep technical expertise in fluid milk membrane ... Process design, scale-up, and optimization * Define critical process parameters, key performance ...

Fairlife

Sr. Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

Process design, scale-up, and optimization * Define critical process parameters, key performance ... Lead initiatives and manage stakeholders across Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain. * Milk ...

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Process Optimization Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$48K

$89.2K

$138.1K

How much do process optimization engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for process optimization engineer in Illinois is $89,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Process Optimization Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process analysis, and data-driven problem solving, often supported by a degree in chemical, industrial, or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with process simulation software, Six Sigma or Lean certifications, and advanced data analytics tools is typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, strong communication, and a collaborative mindset help drive continuous improvement initiatives and facilitate cross-functional teamwork. These skills and qualities are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, implementing sustainable solutions, and maximizing operational productivity.

How does a Process Optimization Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement improvements?

Process Optimization Engineers work closely with various departments such as production, quality, maintenance, and supply chain to identify inefficiencies and develop solutions. Collaboration often involves facilitating workshops, analyzing data with team members, and ensuring that proposed changes align with both operational goals and compliance requirements. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as the engineer must coordinate feedback, gain buy-in, and oversee the implementation of process improvements across multiple teams.

What does a Process Optimization Engineer do?

A Process Optimization Engineer analyzes, designs, and improves industrial processes to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure quality. They use data-driven techniques and engineering principles to identify bottlenecks, implement solutions, and monitor performance. Their work often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate new technologies or methodologies, leading to safer and more productive operations. Process Optimization Engineers are vital in manufacturing, chemical, and other process-driven industries.

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

AspectProcess Optimization EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusImproving processes for efficiency and qualityDesigning and implementing manufacturing systems
CertificationsLean, Six Sigma, process improvement certificationsSix Sigma, CAD, manufacturing certifications
Work EnvironmentProduction lines, process labs, continuous improvement teamsFactory floors, design offices, production planning
Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, consumer goodsManufacturing, industrial equipment, electronics

The Process Optimization Engineer focuses on analyzing and improving existing processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost savings. In contrast, the Manufacturing Engineer designs and implements manufacturing systems and equipment. Both roles often collaborate but serve different core functions within manufacturing operations.

What are popular job titles related to Process Optimization Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Process Optimization Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Optimization Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Process Optimization Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Process Optimization Engineer jobs near you
Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

North Chicago, IL • On-site

$100K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Title: Sr. Process Engineer SME – Biologics/API
Location: North Chicago IL.
Hire Type: Contract
Shift: 1st Standard business hours
Compensation:70-80/hr

Benefits:
As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan.

Must Have Skill Set:
10+ years of process engineering experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, biotech, or API manufacturing environments
Strong GMP manufacturing process knowledge
Experience supporting capital projects and process improvements
Process engineering SME / technical leadership experience
Strong cross-functional communication and stakeholder management skills
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or related technical discipline

Overview:
We are seeking a Senior Process Engineer SME to provide technical process engineering leadership across biologics and pharmaceutical manufacturing projects. This individual will serve as the primary process subject matter expert, supporting engineering teams, project managers, manufacturing operations, and technical stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. The role is focused on providing technical guidance and manufacturing process expertise for capital projects, process improvements, facility expansions, equipment implementation, and operational readiness activities within GMP-regulated environments.
Job Duties:
Provide technical leadership and process engineering expertise across multiple manufacturing projects and initiatives
Serve as the primary process engineering SME supporting biologics and/or API manufacturing operations
Support process design reviews, equipment selection, and manufacturing strategy discussions
Collaborate cross-functionally with project management, operations, quality, validation, automation, and engineering teams
Review and support process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, equipment layouts, and utility integration plans
Support manufacturing process optimization, troubleshooting, and risk mitigation activities
Participate in commissioning, startup, and operational readiness activities as needed
Ensure compliance with GMP standards, process requirements, and manufacturing best practices
Provide technical guidance during process changes, facility expansions, and technology transfer activities
Support communication between technical teams and project execution stakeholders
Identify and help resolve process-related project risks and execution challenges
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or related technical discipline
10+ years of experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, biotech, or API manufacturing environments
Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and GMP operations
Experience supporting capital projects and manufacturing process improvement initiatives
Ability to provide technical leadership across engineering, operations, and project teams
Strong communication, stakeholder management, and technical leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience supporting biologics manufacturing, including upstream/downstream processing, fermentation, or purification systems
Experience with large-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing projects or facility expansions
Knowledge of commissioning, qualification, startup, and manufacturing readiness activities
Familiarity with process equipment, utilities, automation, and manufacturing systems integration
Previous experience acting as a process SME or technical lead on complex manufacturing projects
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national