Progress Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Job Purpose
The Sr. Manufacturing & Product Engineer coordinates, organizes, and directs all engineering activities involved in manufacturing parts from routings through to shipping. This role bridges manufacturing and product engineering by ensuring that product requirements, production methods, and equipment capabilities are aligned for efficient, high-quality, and cost-effective operations.
The position analyzes current production processes, develops improved manufacturing setups, and supports and drives the specification, procurement, installation, and commissioning of new equipment and tooling. This position provides technical support for new product introductions, design changes, and continuous improvement initiatives - with a direct responsibility for shop floor efficiency and profitability.
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Education / Training
• Bachelor's degree in an Engineering field (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Software) or combination of other degree plus relevant experience; thorough understanding of baseline engineering principles required.
Key Job Elements
Production Analysis & Process Optimization
• Observe, document, and analyze current production setups, workflows, and equipment utilization.
• Identify inefficiencies, constraints, and improvement opportunities using structured problem solving and data driven methods.
• Develop improved manufacturing layouts, tooling concepts, and process flows to increase throughput, quality, and safety.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives in collaboration with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.
Equipment Specification, Ordering & Commissioning
• Define equipment and tooling requirements based on process needs, product specifications, and capacity targets.
• Support procurement activities, including vendor evaluations, technical reviews, and cost/benefit analyses.
• Coordinate installation, commissioning, and validation of new equipment and tooling.
• Ensure equipment reliability and maintainability through collaboration with maintenance and controls engineering.
Product-Process Integration
• Work with product engineering to ensure manufacturability of new and existing designs.
• Participate in design reviews, providing input on tooling, assembly sequence, tolerances, and production feasibility.
• Support engineering changes, documentation updates, and release of technical data.
Technical Support & Troubleshooting
• Investigate equipment, tooling, and process failures; perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Provide hands on support during pilot builds, production trials, and new product introductions.
• Collaborate with suppliers, quality, and manufacturing teams to resolve production and quality issues.
Documentation & Training
• Develop and maintain work instructions, process documentation, training materials, and equipment manuals.
• Create routings, process sheets, and standard work to ensure consistent production execution.
Project & Stakeholder Management
• Develop project plans for process changes, equipment installations, and improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate with cross functional stakeholders to ensure alignment on scope, timing, and deliverables.
• Track project performance and report progress to leadership.
Qualifications and Experience
• 5-7+ years of experience in manufacturing processes, assembly sequence, production planning, and related activities, with a focus on design, materials, R&D, tool design, and manufacturing build sequence, preferably in the rail or other heavy manufacturing industry.
• A Background in Composites and or material science is desirable; Thorough knowledge of work measurement techniques, manufacturing and assembly processes, and quality control procedures.
• Ability to read, understand, and create technical prints; hands-on machining and fabrication background; high-level experience interpreting 2D drawings.
• Basic welding knowledge to determine correct build sequences.
• Familiarity with Infor LN or equivalent MRP knowledge; ability to write and read G-code; proficiency with CAD/CAM software (AutoCAD, CATIA, SolidWorks, or equivalent 3D modeling tools); CNC programming knowledge; proficiency with PLCs, electrical controls, and industrial hydraulic systems an asset.
• Understanding of Lean manufacturing principles.
• Familiarity with ISO requirements is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to create detailed specifications, procedures, and technical reports; skilled mediator able to negotiate technical solutions with domestic and international customers and design partners.
• High level of interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment; ability to manage, plan, and evaluate the work of others.
• Strong proficiency with MS Office tools (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**

• Competitive Salary
• 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Education Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
• Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
• Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
**Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.