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Vave Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CAE Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$83K - $92K/yr

The Engineer reports to the Director of Engineering and will be responsible for new product launches, VAVE, assistance with quality, purchasing, and customer manufacturing. Successful engineers are ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wood Dale, IL

$72K - $93K/yr

Support VAVE initiatives to improve margins, reduce part count, and minimize variability * Analyze ... Experience with engineered-to-order or configurable equipment/products * Background in packaging ...

Support VAVE initiatives to improve margins, reduce part count, and minimize variability * Analyze ... Experience with engineered-to-order or configurable equipment/products * Background in packaging ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Support VAVE initiatives to improve margins, reduce part count, and minimize variability * Analyze ... Experience with engineered-to-order or configurable equipment/products * Background in packaging ...

They will support existing production products through VAVE and Continuous Improvement efforts as well as creation of new derivative systems. The SR. Design Engineer is also responsible for ...

Support VAVE initiatives to improve margins, reduce part count, and minimize variability * Analyze ... Proven ability to work cross‑functionally (engineering, operations, product management) Preferred ...

They will support existing production products through VAVE and Continuous Improvement efforts as well as creation of new derivative systems. The SR. Design Engineer is also responsible for ...

They will support existing production products through VAVE and Continuous Improvement efforts as well as creation of new derivative systems. The SR. Design Engineer is also responsible for ...

Support quality initiatives such as DFMEA, PPAP, VAVE, and 6S. * Collaborate with all machine ... Mentor and develop junior engineers, supporting technical growth and professional development.

Partner with Engineering on VAVE, industrialization, and new-product introduction * Provide manufacturability, should-cost, and production input to engineering-led initiatives * Ensure new products ...

This role requires expertise in conducting FMEA, VAVE assessments, facilitating 3P events, and ... Manage Manufacture Engineering projects. Preparation of detailed project plans with estimated ...

Support maintenance-of-line and VAVE projects to ensure service requirements are addressed * Review and support engineering change orders and related project deliverables * Provide technical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Vave Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.1K

$119.4K

$197.3K

How much do vave engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for vave engineer in Chicago, IL is $119,357.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $156,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a VAVE engineer?

A VAVE (Value Analysis/Value Engineering) Engineer is responsible for optimizing product value by reducing costs while maintaining or improving functionality and quality. They analyze existing designs, materials, and manufacturing processes to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising performance. VAVE Engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, procurement, and production, to implement cost-effective solutions. Their role is crucial in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, where cost efficiency and product performance are critical.

What does a VAVE engineer do?

A VAVE Engineer typically spends their day analyzing existing products and processes to identify areas for cost reduction without compromising quality. This involves collaborating closely with product design, manufacturing, and sourcing teams to brainstorm solutions and validate proposals through data analysis and feasibility studies. You may also prepare reports, present findings to stakeholders, and help implement approved changes. The role usually requires balancing multiple projects and meeting deadlines in a team-oriented environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the VAVE engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VAVE (Value Analysis/Value Engineering) Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, experience with cost reduction strategies, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software, PLM systems, and familiarity with methodologies like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing are commonly required. Excellent project management abilities, cross-functional communication, and creative problem-solving distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure effective identification of cost-saving opportunities while maintaining product quality and supporting business objectives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Vave Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Vave Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Vave Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,357 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Senior Manager, Operations Excellence

Ametek

Mount Prospect, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


AMETEK rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 159 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

AMETEK is seeking a Senior Manager, Operations Excellence, to drive product cost competitiveness, margin expansion, and operational performance across the MCT Division. This role leads cross-functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain, Finance, and Operations, leading through influence to align manufacturing, global supply chain, distribution, and service teams in the execution of high-impact initiatives. The position will drive operational performance across safety, quality, and supply chain. cost, delivery, and new product development
The ideal candidate brings a strong operations background with demonstrated success in operational execution, Lean, VAVE, and product cost optimization, including BOM simplification, supplier development, and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) reduction. This leader will support both tactical execution and strategic initiatives, driving alignment across functions globally while reducing complexity and improving overall operational and financial performance.
Operations & Supply Chain:
  • Lead through influence across manufacturing distribution and repair operations to deliver the Division's revenue and profit objectives. Drive Operational Excellence priorities, including cost reduction, quality improvement, new product introduction, acquisition integration and ensuring consistent execution across functions and sites.
  • Experience leading product or manufacturing transfers, including site-to-site, outsourcing, or footprint optimization initiatives, preferred
  • Lead Lean Manufacturing and Operational Excellence initiatives to drive product and operational cost improvements, executing structured process improvements while coaching teams to build capability and systematically eliminate waste.
  • Build and manage a VAVE pipeline from ideation through execution and financial validation; lead cross-functional workshops to identify design, and process improvements.
  • Assemble and communicate business level reports and presentations related to Operations Management. Consolidate Business Division performance reporting on shipments, working capital improvement and material, VAVE and other Operational Excellence savings.
  • Lead product and portfolio rationalization, including SKU reduction, variant simplification, and elimination of low-value complexity
  • Partner with Engineering to challenge specifications and redesign products to optimize function vs. cost while maintaining quality
  • Work with Supply Chain to develop strategies that improve Total Cost of Ownership and supplier performance
  • Supports & lead operational workstreams in due diligence and integration of acquisitions
  • Support the development and deployment of Strategic Initiatives across the Division.

Data Analysis & Reporting:
  • Establish goals and KPIs that deliver real-time actionable information across Operations Engineering, Test Engineering, Production builds, Supply Chain and Logistics.
  • Responsible for the development and implementation of manufacturing strategy and readiness to support business objectives.
  • Establish metrics, measurements, tools to improve efficiency and communication; ensuring the requirements of the customer are met, optimizing product value, reducing cost and ensuring on time delivery.

Qualifications:
  • 6-10+ years of experience in operations, manufacturing, or supply chain, with demonstrated success leading cross-functional initiatives. Multi-site experience
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field; MBA preferred
  • Proven experience in Lean, VAVE, and product cost optimization, including BOM, sourcing, and design simplification
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, cost drivers, and supply chain dynamics
  • Preferred Experience applying 80/20 for product rationalization
  • Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems, planning, and inventory management processes

Traits & Experiences We Value:
  • Strong business and financial acumen with focus on margin, COGS, and value creation
  • Ability to lead through influence across Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Finance
  • Skilled in identifying and executing high-impact cost reduction and VAVE initiatives
  • Capability to challenge assumptions and drive design, and operational decisions
  • Strong problem-solving mindset with structured, data-driven approach
  • Effective communicator with ability to engage stakeholders from shop floor to leadership
  • Results-oriented with demonstrated ability to deliver measurable financial impact
  • Ability to operate in a fast-paced, multi-site environment with competing priorities
  • Strong analytical and project execution skills with disciplined follow-through
  • Ability to build trust and drive alignment across cross-functional and global teams
  • Demonstrated ability and willingness to use AI tools to improve productivity, decision-making, work quality, and to reduce costs. The successful candidate must be able to identify appropriate AI use cases and critically evaluate AI-generated outputs

Compensation
Employee Type: Salaried
Currency: USD
Salary Minimum: 160,000
Salary Maximum: 180,000
Incentive: Yes
Disclaimer: Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.
For more information on AMETEK's competitive benefits, please click here.
AMETEK, Inc. is a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $7.5 billion.
AMETEK is committed to making a safer, sustainable, and more productive world a reality. We use differentiated technology solutions to solve our customers' most complex challenges. We employ 22,000 colleagues, in 35 countries, that are grounded by our core values: Ethics and Integrity, Respect for the Individual, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Social Responsibility. AMETEK is a component of the S&P 500. Visit https://www.ametek.com/careers for more information.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process should call 1 (866) 263-8359.

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