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R&D Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Owens Corning

Process Engineer R & D

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field * 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering, or industrial ...

Owens Corning

Process Engineer R & D

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field * 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering, or industrial ...

Abbott

R&D- Project Manager

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$86K - $173K/yr

Bachelor's degree. * 3+ years of project management experience supporting product development, technical, engineering, software, or R&D programs. * Experience developing and managing project plans ...

Abbott

R&D- Project Manager

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$86K - $173K/yr

Bachelor's degree. * 3+ years of project management experience supporting product development, technical, engineering, software, or R&D programs. * Experience developing and managing project plans ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Establish technical cost baselines and performance scorecards for R&D-driven corn processing ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, Technology, with a strong preference for degrees in ...

Martin Engineering

Molder - 2nd Shift

Neponset, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Prepares special orders for R & D and engineering. * Conducts training on equipment, processes and safety and upgrades training materials, as appropriate. * Complies with OSHA/MSHA requirements ...

Martin Engineering

Molder - 2nd Shift

Neponset, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Prepares special orders for R & D and engineering. * Conducts training on equipment, processes and safety and upgrades training materials, as appropriate. * Complies with OSHA/MSHA requirements ...

Martin Engineering

Molder - 2nd Shift

Kewanee, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Prepares special orders for R & D and engineering. * Conducts training on equipment, processes and safety and upgrades training materials, as appropriate. * Complies with OSHA/MSHA requirements ...

Fisher-Barton Inc.

Engineering Manager

Loves Park, IL · On-site

$86K - $132K/yr

Directs R & D, new product development / introduction and sustaining engineering functions. * Responsible for providing accurate and timely analysis of actuals and forecast for ROI purposes and Capex ...

Tech Tammina LLC

Embedded Software Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer 4 location: Mossville, IL (Onsite) Duration: 6-month contract Core ... Unlike R&D-only roles, this position focuses on autonomy software that is actively moving to ...

Fisher Barton

Engineering Manager

Loves Park, IL · On-site

$86 - $132/hr

Directs R & D, new product development / introduction and sustaining engineering functions. * Responsible for providing accurate and timely analysis of actuals and forecast for ROI purposes and Capex ...

Vesuvius

Be Seen First

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Champaign, IL · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

Three Mechanical Engineers and one VIE Engineer Dimensions of Position: * Manages, plans and ... Oversees product release from R & D which may include review of designs, development of options and ...

Entegris

Lead, Digital Product Manager- R&D

Aurora, IL · On-site

... R&D. You will translate the needs of scientists, engineers, digital leaders, and business stakeholders into clear product requirements, prioritized roadmaps, and coordinated delivery plans. Working ...

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All JobsR&D Engineering JobsR&D Engineering Jobs in Illinois

R D Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$19.4K

$93.6K

$146.3K

How much do r&d engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for r&d engineering in Illinois is $93,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $113,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an R&D engineer?

An R&D (Research and Development) Engineering job involves designing, testing, and improving products, processes, or technologies. Engineers in this role work on innovation by researching new materials, methods, or techniques to enhance performance and efficiency. They collaborate with cross-functional teams, conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop prototypes. The goal is to bring cutting-edge solutions from concept to production while ensuring feasibility and compliance with industry standards.

What does an R&D engineer do?

A typical week in R&D Engineering involves a blend of hands-on experimentation, data analysis, team meetings, and documentation. You may spend part of your time designing experiments or prototypes, troubleshooting technical issues, collaborating with cross-functional teams (such as product development, manufacturing, or marketing), and presenting findings. In addition to technical tasks, you will likely participate in brainstorming sessions, literature reviews, and strategic planning. The pace can be dynamic and project timelines might shift based on new discoveries or business objectives, but the variety keeps the role engaging and intellectually stimulating.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an R&D engineer?

To thrive in R&D Engineering, you need a solid understanding of scientific principles, problem-solving abilities, and an engineering degree, often with specialization in a particular discipline like mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, data analysis tools, prototyping equipment, and project management systems is typically expected, and certifications like Six Sigma or PMP can be advantageous. Strong collaboration, creativity, and effective communication skills help R&D engineers excel when tackling complex problems in multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring technical feasibility, and efficiently bringing new products or processes from concept to reality.

Is R&D engineering a good career?

R&D engineering is a valuable career that involves developing new products and technologies, often requiring strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering principles. It offers opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, with roles typically requiring a bachelor's or higher degree in engineering or related fields. Job stability and growth depend on industry demand and individual expertise.

What are popular job titles related to R&D Engineering jobs in Illinois?

For R&D Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching R&D Engineering jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for R&D Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

R D Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various R&D Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $93,580 per year, or $45 per hour.

R & D Engineering Specialist

Caterpillar

East Peoria, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 489 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Engineering
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Caterpillar's Earthmoving Division is seeking a Machine Development Lead R & D Engineer to lead a team of multi-disciplinary test engineers developing and validating medium tractor products throughout NPI programs at the Peoria Proving Ground in Washington, IL.
Are you looking for an opportunity to leverage your engineering expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges? Do you enjoy hands-on work and getting out of the office to operate machines that move earth? If so, this is an excellent opportunity to join the PPG team.
In this highly visible role, you will ensure Caterpillar machines meet end-user quality expectations by providing technical leadership and guiding validation activities at the machine, system, and component levels. You will play a key role in advancing small and medium track-type tractor validation earlier in the NPI lifecycle through strong program planning and execution.
What You'll Do (Job Duties)
  • Build Relationships: Strengthen collaboration between Product Groups, Process Partners, and Validation teams while reinforcing Validation as a critical partner in product development and safety.
  • Technical Leadership: Provide technical direction and mentorship to a team of test engineers.
  • Process Ownership: Maintain and improve standard test procedures to ensure consistency and quality.
  • Strategy & Execution: Develop and maintain validation strategies and activity plans in partnership with system and global machine development teams.
  • Progress Monitoring: Track and communicate NPI program health, risks, and progress.
  • Hands-On Validation: Support the team through direct involvement in machine testing from a customer perspective.
  • Leadership: Lead process improvements and facility-related projects.

Why You'll Love Working Here
  • Impactful Work: Directly influence the next generation of machines and technology platforms.
  • Career Growth: Expand expertise in advanced systems and large-scale product development.
  • Team Culture: Collaborate with a highly skilled and supportive team.

What You Have (Core Skills)
  • Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
  • Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment.
  • Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.
  • Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.
  • Project Management: Knowledge of effective project management strategies and tactics; ability to plan, organize, monitor, and control projects, ensuring efficient utilization of technical and administrative resources to achieve project objectives.
  • Product Testing: Knowledge of product testing approaches, techniques and tools; ability to design, plan and execute testing strategies and tactics to ensure product quality at all stages of manufacturing.
  • Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Knowledge of troubleshooting approaches, tools and techniques; ability to anticipate, detect and resolve technical problems in a manufacturing or product development environment.

Top Candidates Will Also Have
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Agricultural Engineering from an accredited institution
  • Strong analytical thinking and decision-making skills
  • Experience using Microsoft tools for automation and data analysis
  • Understanding of Lean principles and continuous improvement
  • Experience with tools such as DeweSoft, TCE, DATK, SuperComm2, CAT ET, and machine troubleshooting
  • Background in product development, machine testing, mining, or electrical/electronic systems
  • Ability to work in varied indoor/outdoor conditions (hot, cold, dusty)
  • Ability to safely operate equipment after training

Additional Details
  • Work location: IL-Peoria-Proving Ground AA
  • Domestic relocation assistance IS NOT available for this role
  • Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this role.
  • Travel: ,10% domestic and international
  • This position requires 5 days per week in the office (M-F)

Summary Pay Range:
$128,470.00 - $192,710.00
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 Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
August 19, 2026 - September 2, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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