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Program Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Program Manager JD What's in it for you? * Robust health, dental, and vision coverage that starts on day 1 * 401(k) with 4% match, vests immediately after a 90-day waiting period

Be the Bar we set our own standard of excellence and hold ourselves to it What You Will Do As an Engineering Program Manager, you will be responsible for driving execution of our product development ...

Engineering Program Facilitator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $24.50/hr

... program availability Requirements: Required Education and Experience Pursuing at least a Bachelor's Degree in engineering, math, or a science discipline Basic knowledge of engineering fields and ...

Engineering Program Facilitator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $24.50/hr

... program availability Requirements Required Education and Experience Pursuing at least a Bachelor's Degree in engineering, math, or a science discipline Basic knowledge of engineering fields and ...

Program Manager - Engineering

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$97K - $143K/yr

Three (3) years of combined experience in manufacturing, engineering, program management or leadership of project teams. * Ability to travel on business up to 20% of the time, including international ...

Security Engineer II

New Baden, IL · On-site

$82K - $92K/yr

Security Engineer II provides technical support in the areas of vulnerability and risk assessment ... Capable of communicating technical details effectively within their assigned Program Management ...

Federal Project Manager

Virginia, IL · Hybrid

$95K - $110K/yr

Maintain close working relationships with the Lead PM, Lead Program Engineer, Technical Service Manager, and Customer Service Manager (CSM). Partner & Subcontractor Oversight * Scope Management ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$92.8K

$128.9K

How much do program engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for program engineer in Illinois is $92,810.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $112,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those with expertise in areas like machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, can earn $300,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level engineering roles in large tech companies or specialized consulting positions are more likely to reach this compensation level.

What is a Program Engineer?

A Program Engineer is a professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating the technical aspects of engineering projects or programs. They work closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure that project requirements are met on time and within budget. Their duties often include planning, design review, risk assessment, and ensuring compliance with technical standards. Program Engineers also help resolve engineering issues and facilitate communication across different teams. This role is common in industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, and technology.

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

To thrive as a Program Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project management, and systems integration, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), CAD tools, and industry-specific standards or certifications such as PMP are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills help Program Engineers coordinate teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure programs are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards in a collaborative environment.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

Program engineers develop, test, and maintain software systems, and while AI tools can automate certain coding tasks, they are unlikely to fully replace software engineers. Instead, AI is expected to augment their work, requiring engineers to adapt by learning new skills such as AI integration and advanced problem-solving.

How does a Program Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during project development?

Program Engineers frequently serve as the bridge between engineering, product management, and operations teams. They coordinate project timelines, clarify technical requirements, and ensure that all stakeholders are aligned on deliverables. Regular meetings, progress updates, and documentation are standard practices to maintain clear communication and address challenges early. This collaborative approach helps keep projects on track and ensures that engineering solutions meet both technical and business objectives.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand areas like tech giants or specialized fields such as machine learning or cloud computing, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

What does a program engineer do?

A program engineer designs, develops, and maintains software programs and systems, often working on complex projects that require strong problem-solving skills. They collaborate with cross-functional teams, utilize programming languages, and may be involved in testing and debugging to ensure functionality and performance. The role typically requires technical knowledge, project management skills, and familiarity with tools like version control systems.

What is the difference between Program Engineer vs Software Engineer?

AspectProgram EngineerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often with certifications in project management or systems engineeringBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, with programming certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTypically in project-based settings, coordinating multiple engineering disciplinesPrimarily in software development teams, coding, and designing applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in engineering firms, tech companies, and industries like aerospace, manufacturingCommon in tech companies, startups, and software development firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in engineering projects, project management, systems integrationFocus on coding, software development, and programming tasks

Program Engineers and Software Engineers share overlapping skills but differ mainly in scope. Program Engineers focus on managing engineering projects and systems integration, while Software Engineers concentrate on coding and software development. Both roles require technical expertise, but their work environments and industry applications vary.

What are popular job titles related to Program Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Program Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Program Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Program Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,810 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Engineering Program Manager

Engineering Program Manager

viaPhoton

Naperville, IL

$128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

We are changing the norm by being customer-focused, technology-led. viaPhoton is reimagining fiber optic manufacturing for the AI era. We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data centers, 5G networks, and AI infrastructure shaping the next decade, and our customers need them in weeks, not months. In five years we've grown to a team of 200+ and 4x'd our revenue in the last year alone, and we're just getting started. We're looking for people who want to do their best work with a team that's moving fast.

About the Role

You'll drive execution of our most important engineering projects from concept through production. You'll be the connector between engineering, business, and manufacturing, making sure complex work gets done on time and within budget. If you're at your best managing technical projects, leading teams through problems, and delivering results, this is your role.

  • Drive product development, automation, and process engineering projects and initiatives from concept to completion
  • Collaborate across business, engineering, and production teams to define and achieve project success
  • Identify and resolve key project risks and issues, keeping teams aligned and focused
  • Communicate project status to leadership and stakeholders with clear reporting on plans, risks, and progress
  • Create new methodologies and solutions to support company growth and help the team scale

What You'll Bring

  • Have a BS degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering
  • Have led development, automation, or process engineering programs from concept through production
  • Have overseen project planning, execution, and delivery across cross-functional teams
  • Can balance competing stakeholder needs and build comprehensive project plans, timelines, and budgets
  • Are self-directed, pick up new things quickly, and stay flexible as priorities shift

Want to read the full job description? Engineering Program Manager JD

What's in it for you?

  • Robust health, dental, and vision coverage that starts on day 1
  • 401(k) with 4% match, vests immediately after a 90-day waiting period
  • Flexible PTO that grows over time
  • 10 paid holidays, including 2 floating holidays
  • Monthly team events
  • Click here to view our full benefits overview.

Location: Naperville, IL

Schedule: Mon–Fri | Onsite

Compensation: $75,000 to $85,000 base, plus annual bonus

We're building something big, and we want good people along for the ride. If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today.

At viaPhoton, we are committed to furthering our culture of inclusion. We reinforce this through our core values and beliefs as well as our processes and strategic goals. We remind team members to seek various viewpoints, learn and be hungry with curiosity, and gain trust.

We are an equal opportunity employer and make all employment decisions based on merit and qualifications. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, health condition, genetic information, marital or family status, military or veteran status, socioeconomic background, or any other status protected by applicable law.

We provide reasonable accommodations and adjustments throughout the hiring process. If you need one, please let us know. Any personal data you share with us is handled confidentially and in line with applicable data protection law.