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Quality Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Quality Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Establishment of quality engineering disciplines during the development phases of the product to ensure that quality objectives are met. * Engineer, document, communicate and/or implement quality ...

Quality Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$73K - $94K/yr

Activities Provides quality engineering support directly with customers to address product quality escapes, score-card improvement actions, product/equipment qualification actions. * Lead Quality ...

Quality Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$80K/yr

Quality Engineer Composed of Chromalox, Durex Industries, Vulcanic, and Thermocoax businesses ... A trusted custom thermal solutions supplier and engineering design partner for customers across a ...

Quality Engineer

Mundelein, IL

$73K - $94K/yr

Required Knowledge: • 4 year college degree in Engineering (prefer Mechanical, Manufacturing) • Experience with Metal Stamping and/or Fabrication • Quality Engineering experience including:

Quality Engineer

Cary, IL

$73K - $94K/yr

Activities Provides quality engineering support directly with customers to address product quality escapes, score-card improvement actions, product/equipment qualification actions. * Lead Quality ...

Quality Engineer

Vernon Hills, IL

$70K - $90K/yr

Associates 2 year degree in Quality Engineering preferred. * 3+ years experience in quality and/or manufacturing engineering in a manufacturing/automotive setting preferred. * Knowledge of quality ...

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Quality Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$46.4K

$86.6K

$122.7K

How much do quality engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for quality engineering in Chicago, IL is $86,641.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $95,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Quality Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, quality standards (such as ISO 9001), and data analysis, often supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with quality management systems (QMS), statistical process control (SPC) tools, and certifications like Six Sigma or ASQ CQE are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure products meet regulatory and customer standards, reduce defects, and drive continuous improvement across manufacturing or service processes.

Is quality engineering a good career?

Quality engineering is a viable career that involves ensuring products and services meet quality standards through testing, process improvement, and defect prevention. It often requires knowledge of testing tools, quality management systems, and certifications like Six Sigma or ISTQB. The field offers opportunities across industries such as manufacturing, software, and healthcare, with steady demand for skilled professionals.

What is the difference between Quality Engineering vs Quality Assurance?

AspectQuality EngineeringQuality Assurance
FocusDesigning and implementing quality processes, improving product quality during developmentMonitoring and verifying that quality standards are met through testing and inspections
ResponsibilitiesDeveloping testing strategies, automating tests, collaborating with development teamsCreating test plans, executing tests, documenting defects
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of testing tools, automation, coding, certifications like ISTQBTesting methodologies, attention to detail, certifications like ISTQB
Work EnvironmentCollaborative with developers, involved in product design and process improvementPrimarily testing and validation, quality audits

While both roles aim to ensure product quality, Quality Engineering focuses on building quality into the development process through automation and process improvements, whereas Quality Assurance emphasizes testing and verifying that quality standards are met after development. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals to each role.

What is quality engineering?

Quality Engineering is a discipline that focuses on ensuring products and processes meet established quality standards. Quality Engineers work to design, implement, and improve systems that guarantee the reliability, safety, and performance of products throughout their lifecycle. Their responsibilities often include process optimization, defect prevention, and compliance with industry regulations. By applying engineering principles and analytical methods, Quality Engineers help organizations deliver consistent, high-quality products to their customers.

What are some common challenges faced by quality engineers when working with cross-functional teams?

Quality Engineers often collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and product management teams, which can present challenges such as aligning on quality standards, balancing project timelines with thorough testing, and communicating technical requirements to non-technical stakeholders. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and proactive communication to ensure that quality objectives are met without slowing down the development process. Building mutual trust and maintaining clear documentation are key strategies for Quality Engineers to effectively support cross-functional collaboration.
What are the most commonly searched types of Quality Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Quality Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Quality Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,641 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

About us

Smalley is the global manufacturing leader of precision metal formed products – known for  our Spirolox® retaining rings and Crest-to- Crest® wave springs. Our success is propelled by our inventive spirit, devoted team members, extensive engineering proficiency, and technical ability, cultivated by over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We supply to industries including aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, robotics and industrial machinery – supporting over 70% of the Fortune 500 global manufacturers. We are proud of our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products, relentless pursuit of improvement, and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service to our valued customers.

Why Smalley?

At Smalley, we take pride in cultivating an inclusive work environment that values creativity, collaboration and diversity. We believe in our associates' unique perspectives that they bring to every challenge, which is why we will empower you to push the boundaries of what is possible. We are committed to nurturing an enjoyable work atmosphere demonstrated through activities such as Spirit Days, Cancer Awareness events, Health and Wellness activities, and fun sports opportunities to play in basketball, bags, and ping pong tournaments!

We Offer

  • Competitive compensation and benefits package as well as: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k match, Life insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, PTO, and more!
  • Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth
  • Ongoing learning and training and development opportunities
  • Company and department led team-building activities and events

Job Summary

We have an opening for a Quality Engineering Manager in our Quality Engineering Department! This individual will plan and direct activities concerned with development, application, and maintenance of quality standards for industrial processes, materials, and products. This individual will also be responsible for overseeing, leading, and the planning of Quality Control and Quality Assurance activities.

Responsibilities:

  • Manages staff resources and organization structure to adequately align with and meet business objectives for new and existing customers
  • Identifies areas to improve Quality Engineering Department processes and implement best practices
  • Reviews and identifies areas to improve Inspection Department processes and implement best practices
  • Maintains the Customer Issue Report
  • Coordinates and monitors Returned Goods Authorization (RGA) process and status. Leads Material Review Board (MRB) including scheduled review of discrepant hold area
  • Responsible for the Corrective Action System; this includes but is not limited to reporting cause, corrective action and verification of effectiveness and verifies information is complete and accurate
  • Responsible for the Late Shipment System
  • Gains a full understanding of the total work volume handled by the Quality Department (QC40 tickets, Late Shipments, RGAs, etc.) on a monthly, quarterly, and yearly basis
  • Develops strategies for addressing unfavorable quality trends in order to reduce the quantity/frequency
  • Maintains budgetary spending in the Quality Engineering Department
  • Monitors and mentors Quality Engineering and Inspection leadership on spending in departments against approved and adjusted budgets
  • Monitors Quality Engineering Phone Loop to verify ACD Phone System is properly staffed during business hours and reports results weekly with detailed information for any significant variance and plans for correcting any negative variance
  • Reviews and suggests ideas for financial budgets for Quality Engineering department
  • Leads, motivates and inspires all direct reports
  • Monitors and reviews performance of direct reports, and provides prompt and objective coaching, mentoring and counseling
  • Resolves performance, job satisfaction, and interpersonal issues, balancing employee and department needs.
  • Develops on-boarding and training programs and guides creation of development plans
  • Manages team including recruiting, developing and evaluating team members

Requirements:

  • Four-year Engineering Bachelor degree (B.S.) from four-year college or university; and five to ten years related experience
  • Minimum of seven years experience in a role supervising quality engineers 
  • Quality Engineering Experience in implementing QMS systems, Supplier QA and Quality auditing
  • In depth understanding of: APQP/PPAP, Gage Repeatability & Reproducibility, SPC, Capability Charts, AS9102, Industrial Validation Documents, S1002s, First Article Inspection Reports, Process Failure Mode Effects Analysis, Process Flow Diagrams, Control Plans, ISO9001, 13485, IATF16949, and AS9100
  • Black Belt preferred
  • Minitab experience required
  • Medical field preferred and ISO 9000/9001 required
  • Must be authorized to work in the US on a permanent basis

Apply today and discover the opportunities that await you!

A reasonable estimate of the base salary range for this role is $110,000 - $130,000 USD. Please note that actual salaries may vary within the range, or be above or below the range, based on factors including, but not limited to, education, training, experience, professional achievement, business need, and location. This role is bonus/and or incentive eligible.

EEO/Affirmative Action Smalley is an equal opportunity employer and believes in equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. Accordingly, all employment decisions are based on the principles of equal opportunity. These decisions include recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, discipline, compensation, benefits, training, and other personnel actions involving persons in all job titles and shall occur without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, ancestry, marital status, or any other legally protected class as recognized by applicable law.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental vision, life, accident & disability, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, paid holidays, paid time off and 401(k).

Should you need further assistance to apply to any of our job postings or have any general questions, please contact us at 847-719-5900.