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Product Development Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Daifuku

Product Development Engineer

Hobart, IN

The company is currently seeking an experienced Product Development Engineer . We are currently seeking an innovative Product Development Engineer to work with our talented team of engineers and ...

Daifuku

Product Development Engineer

Hobart, IN

The company is currently seeking an experienced Product Development Engineer . We are currently seeking an innovative Product Development Engineer to work with our talented team of engineers and ...

Daifuku

Product Development Engineer III

Hobart, IN

The company is currently seeking an experienced Product Development Engineer . We are currently seeking an innovative Product Development Engineer to work with our talented team of engineers and ...

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All JobsProduct Development Engineer JobsProduct Development Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Product Development Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$90.6K

$136.6K

How much do product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development engineer in Chicago, IL is $90,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Product Development Engineer do?

A Product Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new products or improving existing ones. They work closely with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, and marketing to bring innovative products from concept to production. Their tasks often include prototyping, conducting feasibility studies, addressing technical challenges, and ensuring that products meet quality and safety standards. Product Development Engineers play a crucial role in transforming ideas into market-ready products that fulfill customer needs.

What Is a Product Development Engineer?

A product development engineer designs manufactured goods by integrating market research to deliver products that will meet company goals. As a product development engineer, you will be working on all stages of the production process, from research and development to prototype testing and quality assurance. You may work in any number of fields, from the automotive industry or medical device manufacturing to developing new soaps or food products. Typically, you work as part of a team, sometimes leading a group of engineers through the design and production process. Your duties include creating drafts and blueprints, assessing proper materials, setting goals, and researching competitive products.

How does a Product Development Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product lifecycle?

Product Development Engineers work closely with teams such as design, manufacturing, marketing, and quality assurance throughout the product lifecycle. They often facilitate communication to ensure that product specifications align with customer needs and production capabilities. Regular meetings and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common, as these engineers help translate technical requirements into actionable plans. This collaborative approach not only streamlines development but also fosters innovation and ensures the final product meets both technical and market expectations.

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

To thrive as a Product Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, product design, and project management, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Proficiency with CAD software, prototyping tools, and familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across teams and innovate solutions. These skills and qualities are essential for efficiently developing market-ready products that meet user needs and business objectives.

What is the difference between Product Development Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectProduct Development EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Industrial, or related engineering; often some experience in product designBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; licensure optional for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing settings, cross-functional teamsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, research labs
Industry UsageProduct design, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospaceMechanical systems, HVAC, manufacturing equipment, automotive

Product Development Engineers focus on designing and developing new products, often working closely with cross-functional teams to bring concepts to market. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical systems and components across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Product Development Engineers typically emphasize product design and innovation, whereas Mechanical Engineers may work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

More about Product Development Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Product Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Product Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Product Development Engineer job openings:
Product Development Engineer jobs near you
Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

North Chicago, IL • On-site

$50 - $56/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Product Development Engineer (Medical Device)
Location: North Chicago, IL
Hire Type: 12 month contract
Target Pay Rate: $50-$56/hr
Benefits: PTO, paid holidays, BCBS medical plans, dental/vision plans, 401(k), ESOP

Must-Have Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Biomedical, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, or related engineering discipline
  • 3+ years of medical device, combination product, or pharmaceutical product development experience
  • Experience with Design History Files (DHF) and design controls
  • Experience supporting commercialized/on-market products
  • Strong technical writing, data analysis, and problem-solving skills
  • Experience working with cross-functional teams in a regulated environment
Job Summary:

The Product Development Engineer supports commercially released medical devices and combination products through product lifecycle management, engineering change implementation, supplier change assessments, and manufacturing support. This role partners with cross-functional teams to evaluate, document, test, and implement product changes while ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory requirements.

Job Duties:
  • Support product lifecycle management activities for commercialized medical devices and combination products
  • Evaluate supplier, material, and manufacturing changes to determine product impact
  • Maintain Design History File (DHF) documentation and ensure design traceability
  • Develop and execute verification testing protocols for product and process changes
  • Analyze engineering and test data, investigate deviations, and prepare technical reports
  • Support risk management activities and regulatory compliance initiatives
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and external suppliers to implement product changes
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to engineering processes and documentation
  • Provide technical support for manufacturing and ongoing product performance
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
  • 3+ years of experience developing or supporting medical devices, combination products, or other regulated products
  • Experience with Design History Files (DHF), design controls, and engineering documentation
  • Knowledge of FDA regulations and medical device quality systems preferred
  • Familiarity with ISO 13485, ISO 14971, ISO 10993, MDR, or similar regulatory standards is a plus
  • Experience with supplier change management is preferred
  • Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.