Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Chicago, Illinois$88,275 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Chicago

Looking for a Manufacturing Engineer job in Chicago? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Manufacturing Engineer in Chicago, IL.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Chicago has a strong job market for Manufacturing Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Manufacturing Engineer Salary in Chicago

Entry Level
$59,118
Median
$88,275
Senior Level
$123,050

Manufacturing Engineer salaries in Chicago are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Chicago is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Process EngineeringLean ManufacturingCADQuality ControlAutomation

Manufacturing Engineer Job Market in Chicago

Chicago, IL is one of America's premier job markets for Manufacturing Engineer professionals. With a population of 2.7 million, the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries. While Finance leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Manufacturing Engineer roles across various sectors. The market for Manufacturing Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago

City of ChicagoCTAComEdUnited Airlines

Major employers hiring Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago include City of Chicago, CTA, ComEd, United Airlines. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago

Living in Chicago as a Manufacturing Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,100/month. Housing costs are manageable for Manufacturing Engineer salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

107
Cost Index (100=avg)
$2.1K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 1
Market Size

Commuting as a Manufacturing Engineer in Chicago

Chicago CTA "L" train system with 8 lines, extensive bus network. The average commute time is 35 minutes. The "L" runs 24/7 on some lines - great for varied work schedules. Living near an L station is key - commutes can double otherwise.

Best neighborhoods for Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Manufacturing Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Illinois

Illinois has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Manufacturing Engineers

The job outlook for Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. As a Tier 1 market, Chicago typically has more openings but also more competition from experienced professionals. In-demand skills include Process Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, CAD, Quality Control.

Relocating to Chicago

Winters can be harsh. Budget for winter clothing, and many employers understand weather-related delays during snow events.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Manufacturing Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?

The average Manufacturing Engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $88,275 per year. Entry-level Manufacturing Engineers typically start around $59,118, while experienced professionals can earn $123,050 or more. The national average for Manufacturing Engineer roles is $82,500.

How many Manufacturing Engineer jobs are available in Chicago?

Chicago has a robust job market with hundreds of openings for Manufacturing Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Manufacturing Engineers include City of Chicago, CTA, ComEd, United Airlines. The Finance and Technology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Chicago a good city for Manufacturing Engineers?

Chicago is an excellent choice for Manufacturing Engineers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's finance industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago?

Top skills for Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago include Process Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, CAD, Quality Control, Automation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago?

Chicago's cost of living is near the national average (107% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,100/month. Purchasing power in Chicago is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago?

Chicago CTA "L" train system with 8 lines, extensive bus network. The average commute is 35 minutes. The "L" runs 24/7 on some lines - great for varied work schedules.

More Engineering Jobs in Chicago