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Process Optimization Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sherwin-Williams

Process Engineer III

Rockford, IL · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

The Process Engineer III is responsible for driving operational improvements through the development and implementation of process optimization initiatives. This includes standardizing procedures ...

fairlife

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

Process design, scale-up, and optimization * Define critical process parameters, key performance indicators, and control plans. * Design, coordinate, and execute pilot and commercial-scale plant ...

Sherwin-Williams

Process Engineer III

Rockford, IL · On-site

The Process Engineer III is responsible for driving operational improvements through the development and implementation of process optimization initiatives. This includes standardizing procedures ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze influent wastewater characteristics, facility design, and operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility design, and operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Process Optimization: Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility design, and operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and ...

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How much do process optimization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for process optimization in Illinois is $30.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.11 and $35.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does process optimization do?

Process optimization involves analyzing and improving business processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality. Process optimization professionals use tools like data analysis and workflow redesign to streamline operations and achieve better performance outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Process Optimization position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Process Optimization, you need strong analytical skills, a background in process engineering or industrial engineering, and often a relevant degree in engineering, business, or operations management. Familiarity with process mapping software, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and data analysis tools such as Excel, Minitab, or Tableau is commonly required, with certifications like Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt being advantageous. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a collaborative mindset help candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, facilitating improvements, and driving measurable results across diverse business operations.

What is a Process Optimization job?

A Process Optimization job focuses on analyzing, improving, and streamlining workflows to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. Professionals in this role use data analysis, automation, and best practices to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions. They often collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement and ensure sustainable operational success. Depending on the industry, this role may involve Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to optimize business processes.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Process Optimization?

A typical day for a Process Optimization professional involves analyzing current workflows, identifying areas for improvement, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement solutions. You may spend time mapping out processes, conducting data analysis, and facilitating meetings or workshops to gather input and drive change. The role often requires balancing hands-on problem solving with documentation and reporting progress to stakeholders. Close collaboration with departments such as production, quality assurance, and IT is common to ensure sustainable improvements. These varied responsibilities keep the work dynamic and provide opportunities for ongoing learning and impact.

What job pays $400,000 a year without a degree?

In process optimization, high-paying roles often require extensive experience and specialized skills rather than formal degrees. Positions such as senior consultants or operations managers in certain industries can reach or exceed $400,000 annually, especially with bonuses and performance incentives, but typically demand strong expertise, certifications, and proven results.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Optimization jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Process Optimization jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Optimization jobs in Illinois? For Process Optimization jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Optimization jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Process Optimization jobs in Illinois are:
Process Optimization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Optimization job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 34% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,663 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Lead Process Owner - Testing (Chemical/Mechanical)

UL Solutions

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$116K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

UL Solutions rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Job Description
The Testing Process Owner - Chemical/Mechanical serves as the global functional leader for a defined testing sub-process within the broader Performance Process Testing framework. Reporting to the Director Lab Operational Excellence, this role is the Single Point of Contact (SPOC) for Chemical / Mechanical Testing across all integrated laboratories.
The Process Owner ensures strategic alignment, drives standardization and optimization, and governs compliance and technical implementation. While the role does not carry disciplinary authority, it requires strong collaboration with Laboratory Managers, Regional Directors, and Technical Competence Centers to ensure consistent execution and process discipline.
All processes related to the assigned testing area within ULDC integrated labs must be formally approved by the Process Owner or their designated deputy, ensuring alignment with global standards and quality systems.
This is a hybrid role requiring 3 days per week in any UL office globally.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the global owner of the Chemical/Mechanical Testing sub-process across all integrated laboratories.
  • Act as the single point of contact (SPOC) and decision-maker for all process-related matters in the assigned area.
  • Approve all ULDC Quality System documents related to the testing area, directly or via a designated deputy.
  • Develop, harmonize, and reduce the number of SOPs related to:
    • Testing
    • Rework
    • Round robin tests
    • Qualification tests
    • Measurement uncertainty evaluations
  • Collaborate with Technical Competence Centers (e.g., GLTL, PrEs) to ensure consistency and technical accuracy
  • Implement technical decisions from Competence Centers into standardized operating procedures.
  • Monitor and communicate updates related to laboratory accreditation and scheme-specific requirements.
  • Ensure decisions from ILAC members are effectively integrated into lab operations.
  • Own and maintain Excellence Laboratory Guidelines.
  • Provide strategic input on global testing technologies and innovation.
  • Drive development and optimization of laboratory schemes and testing technologies to support Market Access Services.
  • Host monthly meetings with Lab Managers and Leaders to align process improvements, technical updates, and strategic goals.
  • Collaborate with Regional Directors and Business Partners to ensure execution and process discipline - without disciplinary authority.
  • Support strategic planning and development of new laboratories.
  • Establish governance for the Laboratory Playbook, including regular review cycles.
  • Act as a change agent for harmonized procedures, engaging stakeholders and assessing impact.
  • Promote internal and external best practices across global labs.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related technical field. Master's degree preferred.
  • 5+ years of experience in chemical, mechanical, or material testing within laboratory or manufacturing environments.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent process improvement training. ISO or industry-specific compliance certifications are a plus.
  • Deep understanding of mechanical or material testing methodologies, lab operations, and quality systems.
  • Strong communication, analytical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills. Ability to lead through influence.
  • English fluency required. Additional language skills are benefitical for regional coordination.

Skills Required:
  • Leadership Through Influence: Guide global process discipline and harmonization without direct disciplinary authority; engage and align stakeholders across regions.
  • Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of electrical or material testing methodologies, laboratory operations, and quality systems.
  • Process Ownership: Proven ability to manage, approve, and optimize technical processes with cross-functional impact.
  • Quality & Compliance: Familiarity with audit processes, SOP management, and regulatory standards (ISO, IEC, ASTM).
  • Continuous Improvement: Hands-on experience applying Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to improve testing workflows.
  • Project Management: Strategic planning and execution for lab expansion, consolidation, and process optimization.
  • Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Strong communication skills; ability to collaborate with lab managers, quality teams, and technical stakeholders globally.
  • Training & Competence Building: Experience designing and delivering technical training programs and evaluating their effectiveness.
  • Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze technical data, assess impact, and drive process improvements.
  • Governance & Approval Authority: Experience in approving and governing process standards within integrated lab environments.

What we offer:
Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $116,200-160,000 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 20% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday including floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).
About Us
A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.
About the Team
Our global network of 80+ laboratories is constantly evolving, because the world around us is always changing. We embrace this - we invest in improving our equipment and our skills so we're one step ahead of the market. One day we could be setting up a burn test and the next, simulating a tornado. And because we're always evolving, your career will evolve alongside us, whether you're working on brand new technology or connecting with experts around the globe. Join our team, drive the growth of our organization and deliver real change - in a changing world.

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