Smart Manufacturing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

MUST RESIDE IN ILLINOIS
*Work authorization required. IMEC is unable to sponsor visas for this role.
The Digital Technologies Technical Specialist works directly with manufacturers to improve operational performance through the strategic application of digital and smart manufacturing technologies. This role helps manufacturers assess operational and technology gaps, optimize the use of smart manufacturing technologies, and develop practical roadmaps for adopting digital solutions across a broad range of manufacturing applications. The Specialist provides consultation on digital manufacturing, Industrial IoT (IIoT), automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and ERP/MRP systems, helping manufacturers integrate digital technologies into their operations to improve productivity, operational visibility, and data-driven decision-making.
Working closely with IMEC's field team through collaboration, mentoring, and job shadowing, this role empowers manufacturers to advance their digital maturity and adopt Industry 4.0 solutions, while providing opportunities to mentor colleagues and share technical expertise.
Essential Responsibilities:
Responsibilities include:

• Provide direct consultation to manufacturers on digital transformation strategies, smart manufacturing technologies, Industrial IoT, automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and data analytics to improve operational performance, equipment utilization, and real-time visibility into manufacturing operations.
• Prepare proposals, deliver sales presentations, and support business development efforts that expand the adoption of digital technologies among Illinois manufacturers.
• Manage project engagements, which may include:
  • Conducting digital manufacturing readiness assessments to evaluate current technology infrastructure, operational processes, and digital maturity.
  • Identifying operational and technology gaps and recommending opportunities for digital transformation and smart manufacturing adoption.
  • Helping manufacturers optimize the use of smart manufacturing technologies across production operations, machine connectivity, and data collection systems.
  • Developing practical roadmaps for implementing digital technologies such as Industrial IoT, machine monitoring systems, data analytics platforms, and automation solutions.
  • Supporting manufacturers in evaluating and implementing technologies such as ERP/MRP systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), machine connectivity platforms, and digital dashboards.
  • Integrating digital technologies that enable connected factory environments, improved production visibility, and data-driven operational decision-making.
  • Advising manufacturers on emerging digital manufacturing technologies and their practical application in small and mid-sized manufacturing environments.
  • Leading hands-on pilot implementations and technology adoption projects, helping manufacturers solve real-world operational challenges while ensuring measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and efficiency.
• Develop and manage Third Party Resources including digital technology providers, automation specialists, robotics vendors, and other technology partners that support client project engagements.
• Participate in IMEC's solution development and process improvement teams to strengthen and expand and strengthen digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 service offerings for Illinois manufacturers.

Additional Requirements/Qualifications:
Education/Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical field. Master's degree preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, manufacturing engineering, automation engineering, industrial engineering, or digital manufacturing technologies.
• Experience implementing or supporting digital manufacturing technologies such as Industrial IoT, machine monitoring, MES, ERP/MRP systems, robotics, or automation systems.
• Experience evaluating or implementing smart manufacturing or Industry 4.0 solutions within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience working with data analytics, manufacturing dashboards, or operational data systems used to improve manufacturing performance.
• Experience consulting with manufacturers or leading cross-functional improvement initiatives is strongly preferred.
• Experience working with small and mid-sized manufacturers is a plus.

Candidates should be sincerely interested in helping manufacturers implement new manufacturing techniques and processes. Must have good computer skills and be a strong written and verbal communicator. An IMEC Technical Specialist will need tact and diplomacy in dealing with manufacturers, professional associations, government stakeholder representatives, and other service providers.
Consideration will be given to candidates with the proven ability to lead companies down a path of continuous improvement, with the demonstrated capacity to diagnose company needs and effectively communicate value to all levels of the company, from production personnel to top management.
Position requires a combination of virtual work and regular travel with occasional extended travel to remote facilities across the state. Driving is an essential function of the job. Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. This position has a lifting requirement of up to 70 pounds. Applicants must be capable of accessing manufacturing facilities which may not be ADA accessible.
Please submit an electronic application, including (1) cover letter, (2) resume, and (3) the names and contact information for three references. IMEC, The University of Illinois, Northern Illinois University, Southern Illinois University, and Bradley University conduct background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of contingent offer of employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. IMEC and its Subrecipient organizations, including Bradley University, SIU, NIU, and UIC are EOE/AA/M/F/Disabled/Veteran Employers.
About IMEC
IMEC is a team of improvement specialists dedicated to providing manufacturers in Illinois with the tools and techniques to excel and compete globally. The experienced hands-on team at IMEC works closely with its clients to plan critical business improvements in all areas of their organization from: Leading their Company, Planning for Success, Growing their Business, Improving their Operations, Focusing on their People, and Deciding with Data.
With more than 50 full-time staff and partners positioned statewide, IMEC delivers the local expertise to not only plan and strategize, but to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of client improvements. In fact, IMEC assists more than 3,000 companies each year with successful business improvement projects.
As a result, IMEC has demonstrated a return on investment that exceeds 19:1. This is made possible as organizations become more effective and efficient.
IMEC team members enjoy their jobs because of the challenge in working with a variety of organizations in a broad range of industries. They also gain satisfaction from providing assistance and advisement to help organizations succeed in a demanding marketplace. Click HERE to learn more about IMEC.