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Smart Manufacturing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kids for the Future

Manufacturing Engineer

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$82 - $100/hr

In addition to capital project leadership, this position supports continuous improvement, process optimization, and smart manufacturing initiatives that leverage automation and data-driven decision ...

New

OtterBase

Director of Automation Engineering

Chicago, IL

$130K - $175K/yr

Drive adoption of Industry 4.0, IIoT, smart manufacturing, industrial analytics, and connected-factory technologies. Integrate process, packaging, utility, and production systems to improve equipment ...

Gotion, Inc.

Systems Engineer (MES & Data)

Manteno, IL · On-site

The ideal candidate has experience with MES systems, manufacturing data, PLC integration, and production operations, and enjoys working directly on the factory floor to drive smart manufacturing ...

Ferrara

Automation Expert Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $160K/yr

Introduce smart manufacturing, data analytics, and Industry 4.0 technologies to maximize efficiency and visibility. * Deliver results : Manage project budgets, schedules, and vendor relationships to ...

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All JobsSmart Manufacturing JobsSmart Manufacturing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Smart Manufacturing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do smart manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for smart manufacturing in Chicago, IL is $25.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is smart manufacturing?

Smart manufacturing refers to the use of advanced technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics to improve manufacturing processes. It aims to increase efficiency, flexibility, and quality by enabling real-time monitoring and decision-making on the factory floor. By integrating machines, people, and digital systems, smart manufacturing helps companies optimize production, reduce costs, and quickly respond to changing market demands.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by professionals working in smart manufacturing roles?

Professionals in Smart Manufacturing often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies with legacy systems, ensuring data security across interconnected machines, and managing the change process among staff adapting to automation. Additionally, staying updated with rapid advancements in IoT, AI, and robotics is crucial for continued success. Collaboration with IT, engineering, and operations teams is essential to ensure seamless implementation and ongoing optimization of smart manufacturing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in smart manufacturing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Smart Manufacturing, you need expertise in manufacturing processes, automation, data analytics, and typically a background in engineering or industrial technology. Familiarity with Industry 4.0 tools such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, IoT devices, and relevant certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and effective communication skills help professionals collaborate and drive innovation in dynamic production environments. These competencies are essential for optimizing efficiency, ensuring quality, and maintaining competitiveness in rapidly evolving manufacturing landscapes.

What is the difference between Smart Manufacturing vs Automation Engineer?

AspectSmart ManufacturingAutomation Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degrees, certifications in IoT, data analyticsEngineering degrees, certifications in control systems, PLC programming
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, integrated systemsIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, control rooms
Industry UsageImplementing smart, connected systems for efficiencyDesigning and maintaining automation systems

Smart Manufacturing focuses on integrating IoT, data analytics, and digital technologies to optimize production processes. Automation Engineers primarily design, implement, and maintain control systems like PLCs and robotics. While both roles work within manufacturing environments, Smart Manufacturing emphasizes digital transformation, whereas Automation Engineers concentrate on automation system deployment and maintenance.

What are popular job titles related to Smart Manufacturing jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Smart Manufacturing jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Smart Manufacturing jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Smart Manufacturing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Smart Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Smart Manufacturing job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,454 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Regional Smart Manufacturing Senior Engineer , Multiple locations , Indiana, Hammond, Lowa,Edyv[...]

Hammond, IN • On-site

Central Business Solutions, Inc
See more jobs at Central Business Solutions, Incexternal

$120 - $140/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Regional Smart Manufacturing Senior Engineer , Multiple locations , Indiana, Hammond, Lowa,Edyville , Full Time/Per, (MK)

We are a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life’s essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.

This position is in our Food Enterprise where we are committed to serving food manufacturers, food service customers, and retailers with a complete range of innovative ingredients and branded products. Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate.

Job Purpose and Impact

The Regional Smart Manufacturing Senior Project Engineer will transform the way we work. In this role, you will be asked to develop and drive projects amid the Smart Manufacturing portfolio. The Smart Manufacturing engineer will drive these projects through detailed design, technology pilots and plant trials, project execution, startup and commissioning, value tracking and sustainment activities and project closeout.

Key Accountabilities
  • Lead engineering projects or segments of larger capital projects in the testing and evaluation of new technologies to reduce cost or improve the value of existing products or processes.
  • Utilize knowledge of products, ingredients and processes to assess alternatives and understand broad implications of possible changes and to leverage cross functional expertise and apply best practices to solution identification.
  • Evaluate new technology solutions and value optimization projects with considerations for experimental design and data analysis using a science-based approach.
  • Establish clear deliverables for projects and utilizes project charters, protocols and project reports to effectively plan, execute and document the work of the project in a timely manner using project management skills and tools.
  • Understand customer requirements and expectations on projects and identifies, maintains and defends intellectual property opportunities as they arise.
  • Independently handle complex issues with minimal supervision, while escalating only the most complex issues to appropriate staff.

Other duties as assigned

Qualifications Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience
  • Minimum of four years of related work experience
  • Ability to travel up to 40% of the time
  • Experience in scientific procedure, project management, experimental design, data analysis and interpretation and project documentation
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering with experience in plant operations, process engineering, project engineering, process controls and automation, manufacturing technology, production excellence or related technical field
  • Strong project management skills and experience managing a portfolio of projects simultaneously
  • Automation and technology development experience
  • Experience with technologies that exist within our Starches, Sweeteners, Texturizers business group
  • Security Clearance Required:No
  • Visa Candidate Considered:No
Compensation
  • Base Salary -USD $120,000 to $140,000
  • *** Never repost ***
  • Full-time
  • Benefits -Full
  • Relocation Assistance Available -Yes
  • Commission Compensation -No
  • Bonus Eligible -Yes
  • Overtime Eligible -No
  • Interview Travel Reimbursed -No
Candidate Details
  • 5+ to 7 years experience
  • Seniority Level -Associate
  • Management Experience Required -No
  • Minimum Education -Bachelor's Degree
  • Willingness to Travel -Often
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