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Product Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

AKIRA

Footwear Product Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

AKIRA Footwear Product Developer In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 40+ stores across the United ...

AKIRA

Footwear Product Developer

Chicago, IL

AKIRA Footwear Product Developer In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 40+ stores across the United ...

MARKT-PILOT GmbH

VP Product Strategy

Chicago, IL · On-site

Product Developers report to the CPTO, not this role. Your responsibility is to ensure they receive the sharpest possible strategic inputs and customer insights so they can move with extraordinary ...

Atkore Management, LLC

Product Engineer

Harvey, IL · On-site

Product Engineer Who we are: Atkore is forging a future where our employees, customers, suppliers, shareholders, and communities are building better together - a future focused on serving the ...

Atkore

Product Engineer

Harvey, IL · On-site

Product Engineer Who we are: Atkore is forging a future where our employees, customers, suppliers, shareholders, and communities are building better together - a future focused on serving the ...

Atkore Management, LLC

Product Engineer

Harvey, IL

Product Engineer Who we are: Atkore is forging a future where our employees, customers, suppliers, shareholders, and communities are building better together - a future focused on serving the ...

ThyssenKrupp Presta AG

Product Engineer

Danville, IL · On-site

$80.56 - $90/hr

Product Engineer for thyssenkrupp Crankshaft Company, LLC in Danville, Illinois Duties include: Responsible for all technical tasks related to new product development within the project framework and ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer II

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

As a Product Engineer II - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing enterprise-level system configurations for data center and edge hardware. You will own the process from ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer II

Libertyville, IL · On-site

As a Product Engineer II - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing enterprise-level system configurations for data center and edge hardware. You will own the process from ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer II

Libertyville, IL · On-site

As a Product Engineer II - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing enterprise-level system configurations for data center and edge hardware. You will own the process from ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer 1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

As a Product Engineer I - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing enterprise-level system configurations for data center and edge hardware. You will own the process from ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer 1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

As a Product Engineer I - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing enterprise-level system configurations for data center and edge hardware. You will own the process from ...

AHEAD

Product Engineer 1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

As a Product Engineer I - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing enterprise-level system configurations for data center and edge hardware. You will own the process from ...

Socket.dev

Product Engineer 1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

As a Product Engineer I - Configuration Services, you will be instrumental in implementing enterprise‑level system configurations for data center and edge hardware. You will own the process from ...

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All JobsProduct Developer JobsProduct Developer Jobs in Illinois

Product Developer information

See Illinois salary details

$25.7K

$94.4K

$201.6K

How much do product developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for product developer in Illinois is $94,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,800.00 and $113,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a product developer?

A product developer is a mix between an engineer and an industrial designer that develops new products or improves existing ones for small businesses or large corporations. In this career, you work with clients to understand their needs, research market opportunities, and delve into trends to see which products sell the best. With this data, you try to create a competitive design. Your job duties can include creating prototypes, translating sketches into specification sheets, using computer design programs, and collaborating with sales, marketing, technical, or manufacturing departments to launch products. As a product developer, you combine business skills with design and engineering to invent better products than those on the market.

What does a product developer do?

A Product Developer is responsible for creating and improving products from concept to launch. They collaborate with design, engineering, and marketing teams to ensure that the product meets market needs and company goals. Their role includes researching customer preferences, developing prototypes, testing ideas, and overseeing the production process. Product Developers also analyze trends and feedback to refine products and maintain competitiveness. Their work is crucial in transforming ideas into tangible, market-ready products.

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

To thrive as a Product Developer, you need a strong background in product design, market research, and project management, often supported by a degree in engineering, design, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and product lifecycle management (PLM) systems is typically required, along with knowledge of relevant industry standards. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills that help drive innovation and effective teamwork. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing successful products that meet market needs and maintain a competitive edge.

How does a product developer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product lifecycle?

Product Developers work closely with teams such as design, engineering, marketing, and quality assurance throughout the product lifecycle. They facilitate clear communication to ensure that product specifications are met, timelines are maintained, and any challenges are addressed promptly. This collaborative environment allows for iterative feedback, quick problem-solving, and the integration of diverse perspectives, ultimately leading to a more successful product launch. Regular meetings and project management tools are often used to keep all stakeholders aligned.

What is the difference between Product Developer vs Product Designer?

AspectProduct DeveloperProduct Designer
Primary FocusDevelops, tests, and refines product prototypes and manufacturing processesCreates user-centered product designs and interfaces
Skills & CredentialsEngineering, technical skills, prototypingDesign, user experience, creativity
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, engineering teamsDesign studios, UX teams, product development
Industry UsageManufacturing, consumer goods, tech hardwareConsumer electronics, software, product design firms

Product Developers focus on turning concepts into tangible products through engineering and testing, while Product Designers concentrate on creating appealing and user-friendly designs. Both roles collaborate closely but serve different aspects of product creation, making their skills complementary in the product development process.

How much do product developers get paid?

Product developers typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $120,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced developers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What degree do I need to be a product developer?

A product developer typically holds a bachelor's degree in fields such as engineering, design, business, or related areas. Relevant skills include knowledge of product lifecycle, prototyping, and project management; some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or specialized certifications. Practical experience and technical proficiency often complement formal education in this role.
More about Product Developer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Product Developer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Product Developer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Product Developer jobs in Illinois?

For Product Developer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Product Developer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Product Developer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Product Developer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Product Developer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Product Developer jobs in IL?

For Product Developer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Product Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Product Developer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,362 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Footwear Product Developer

AKIRA

Chicago, IL • On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Akira rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

AKIRA Footwear Product Developer
In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 40+ stores across the United States, as well as a thriving eCommerce business (shopAKIRA.com.) AKIRA is extremely well-poised for sustained growth as we continue to build a nationally recognized brand.
AKIRA's culture has one very large, distinct difference from other high fashion competitors: Other-Worldly Customer Service and Fanatical, Obsessive Attention to the consumer's needs and desires. The core principle for all employees at AKIRA is to Act and Think Like an Owner, and this belief can be reflected across all areas of the company.
Build the Next It Shoe
At AKIRA, we're obsessed with creating fashion-forward footwear that turns heads. We move quickly, challenge convention, and bring runway-inspired ideas to market at incredible speed.
We're looking for an experienced Footwear and Handbags Product Developer who loves building product from design to shelf. You'll partner closely with Design, Merchandising, and our factory partners to develop trend-driven footwear that delivers exceptional design, quality, speed, and value.
If you're energized by beautiful product, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy solving development challenges, we'd love to meet you.
What You'll Do
You'll own the product development process for footwear and handbags, ensuring every style delivers on design, quality, fit, functionality, cost, and speed to market.
Product Development
  • Manage the complete development lifecycle for footwear and handbags from concept approval through final production sample.
  • Partner closely with Design to bring seasonal collections to life while preserving creative intent.
  • Create clear and detailed tech packs, BOMs, and development specifications for overseas factory partners.
  • Drive development calendars and ensure all milestones are achieved on time.
  • Lead prototype reviews, fit sessions, and sample evaluations.
  • Recommend improvements in fit, construction, functionality, comfort, quality, and value engineering.

Materials & Innovation
  • Source new materials, components, trims, and constructions that elevate the collection.
  • Research emerging materials and manufacturing techniques to bring newness to every season.
  • Maintain and continuously evolve our footwear material library.

Factory Partnership
  • Communicate daily with overseas factories to resolve development issues quickly.
  • Manage sample requests, revisions, costing, and production feasibility.
  • Partner with vendors to achieve target costs while maintaining design integrity.

Cross Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with Design, Merchandising, Production, Sales, and Planning throughout the product lifecycle.
  • Ensure product information, specifications, and development status remain accurate within PLM.
  • Provide seamless handoff to Production once purchase orders are placed.

What We're Looking For
  • 5+ years of experience developing women's footwear, handbags, or fashion accessories.
  • Strong knowledge of footwear construction, materials, components, and manufacturing.
  • Experience working directly with overseas factories.
  • Excellent understanding of fit, comfort, construction, and quality standards.
  • Ability to balance trend, cost, speed, and execution.
  • Highly organized with outstanding project management skills.
  • Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
  • Adobe Creative Suite, Google Workspace, Microsoft Excel proficiency.

Benefits & Perks:
AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full-time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet Insurance, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and a generous employee discount. We're committed to internal growth, providing meaningful development and career advancement opportunities.
Job Type: Full-Time
We are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Compensation for this position will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.
We may utilize AI-assisted and automated tools as part of the recruiting and hiring process. All employment decisions are made in compliance with applicable laws and without discrimination.
Department Buyers Locations Chicago Headquarters Yearly salary $100,000 - $130,000 Employment type Full-time

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