Test Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Test Engineer jobs in Illinois are in steady demand, with the strongest concentration in advanced manufacturing, automotive systems, aerospace and defense, and semiconductor production, drawing candidates from entry-level quality assurance roles through senior systems validation engineers. Chicago, Rockford, and Peoria anchor most of the hiring activity, and established employers like Caterpillar, Motorola Solutions, and Boeing maintain a consistent presence across the state. Software validation, embedded systems testing, and automated test equipment development are among the most in-demand specialties right now. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 67+ Test Engineer jobs
Career Area:
EngineeringJob 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.
About IPSD:
Caterpillar’s Industrial Power Systems Division (IPSD) designs, tests and manufactures 0.5 to 18L engines that not only power Caterpillar machines, but also power over 5000 other applications including Marine, Petroleum, Industrial Applications, Electric Generators, and Locomotives. Caterpillar’s company strategy includes sustainability as one of four focus areas and IPSD is engaged and actively preparing green energy solutions for the future.
Job Summary:
Caterpillar's IPSD Engine Performance Development is looking for a person to serve as Senior Engineer – Test / Validation in our Power Systems Lab at the Technical Center. In this role, you will be responsible for delivery of engine development programs for IPSD’s 9-liter through 18-liter machine and commercial product offerings. This position is responsible for leading a team of engineers to direct work through the test cell, use data analysis tools to process and summarize data, create engine and aftertreatment calibrations based on both test data and modeling tools and certify the final engine calibration. This position collaborates with highly engaged and technically capable team members, as well as managing multiple projects and assignments simultaneously that are complex in nature which support and enhance Caterpillar product performance, durability, reliability, quality, and serviceability.
What You Will Do:
- Lead a team of test engineers and lab support staff to plan & execute engine development and certification plans
- Optimize engine and aftertreatment calibration within requirements, hardware limits, and emissions regulations; populate corresponding maps to build calibration into software.
- Create and influence new rating development tools and procedures for next generation diesel engine calibration. Author new standard work and training documents for use by other team members.
- Contribute to multiple New Product Introduction (NPI) rating development projects, New Technology Integration (NTI) projects, and emissions certification projects
- Translate technical requirements into detailed plan test plans, instrumentation requirements, and mitigation plans for test cell work; communicate results
- Support Built-In-Quality (BIQ) efforts to reduce inefficiency in design and test lab processes
What You Will Have:
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.
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.
Education: Degree in an accredited Engineering, Computer Science, or Materials Science curriculum or equivalent experience working in an Engineering function.
Top Candidates Will Also Have:
- Experience with engine combustion & emissions performance, engine calibration, & lab testing.
- Engine simulation experience, preferably performance based in Dynasty, GT Power, or Simulation / Application.
- Passion for engine performance calculations, detailed data analysis, and tool development.
- Willingness to work on a broad range of engine applications.
- Ability to mentor team members by technical guidance.
Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed. #LI
Summary Pay Range:
$112,710.00 - $169,060.00Compensation 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
Relocation is available for this position. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
November 13, 2026 - November 20, 2026Any 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.
Career Area:
EngineeringJob 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.
About IPSD:
Caterpillar’s Industrial Power Systems Division (IPSD) designs, tests and manufactures 0.5 to 18L engines that not only power Caterpillar machines, but also power over 5000 other applications including Marine, Petroleum, Industrial Applications, Electric Generators, and Locomotives. Caterpillar’s company strategy includes sustainability as one of four focus areas and IPSD is engaged and actively preparing green energy solutions for the future.
Job Summary:
Caterpillar's IPSD Engine Performance Development is looking for a person to serve as Senior Engineer – Test / Validation in our Power Systems Lab at the Technical Center. In this role, you will be responsible for delivery of engine development programs for IPSD’s 9-liter through 18-liter machine and commercial product offerings. This position is responsible for leading a team of engineers to direct work through the test cell, use data analysis tools to process and summarize data, create engine and aftertreatment calibrations based on both test data and modeling tools and certify the final engine calibration. This position collaborates with highly engaged and technically capable team members, as well as managing multiple projects and assignments simultaneously that are complex in nature which support and enhance Caterpillar product performance, durability, reliability, quality, and serviceability.
What You Will Do:
- Lead a team of test engineers and lab support staff to plan & execute engine development and certification plans
- Optimize engine and aftertreatment calibration within requirements, hardware limits, and emissions regulations; populate corresponding maps to build calibration into software.
- Create and influence new rating development tools and procedures for next generation diesel engine calibration. Author new standard work and training documents for use by other team members.
- Contribute to multiple New Product Introduction (NPI) rating development projects, New Technology Integration (NTI) projects, and emissions certification projects
- Translate technical requirements into detailed plan test plans, instrumentation requirements, and mitigation plans for test cell work; communicate results
- Support Built-In-Quality (BIQ) efforts to reduce inefficiency in design and test lab processes
What You Will Have:
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.
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.
Education: Degree in an accredited Engineering, Computer Science, or Materials Science curriculum or equivalent experience working in an Engineering function.
Top Candidates Will Also Have:
- Experience with engine combustion & emissions performance, engine calibration, & lab testing.
- Engine simulation experience, preferably performance based in Dynasty, GT Power, or Simulation / Application.
- Passion for engine performance calculations, detailed data analysis, and tool development.
- Willingness to work on a broad range of engine applications.
- Ability to mentor team members by technical guidance.
Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed. #LI
Summary Pay Range:
$112,710.00 - $169,060.00Compensation 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
Relocation is available for this position. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
November 13, 2026 - November 20, 2026Any 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.
See All 67 Test Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Test Engineer JobsTest Engineer Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Test Engineer Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Manufacturing
- Automotive
- Electronics & Hardware
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in test engineer jobs across Illinois.
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or computer science required
- Hands-on experience with automated test frameworks such as NI TestStand or LabVIEW
- Proficiency writing and executing test plans, test cases, and defect reports
- Familiarity with manufacturing quality standards including ISO 9001 or IATF 16949
- Experience with scripting languages such as Python or C++ for test automation
- Strong analytical skills for root cause analysis and failure mode documentation
Test Engineer Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a test engineer in Illinois?
Most Illinois test engineer roles require a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or a closely related field. Illinois does not impose a state license specific to test engineers, but roles in aerospace, defense, or safety-critical manufacturing often expect certifications such as Certified Software Test Professional or ASQ Certified Quality Engineer. Building hands-on experience through internships at Illinois manufacturers or tech firms strengthens most applications considerably.
Which companies hire test engineers in Illinois?
Employers hiring test engineers in Illinois right now include CACI International, Caterpillar, and Molex, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Illinois's concentration of defense contractors, automotive suppliers, and industrial technology companies means consistent test engineer openings appear across both the Chicago metro and downstate manufacturing corridors.
Which Illinois cities have the most test engineer jobs?
Chicago, Scott AFB, and Rockford account for the most test engineer openings in Illinois. Chicago drives volume through its aerospace, defense, and enterprise technology employers, while Rockford's deep-rooted aerospace and precision manufacturing base and Peoria's heavy equipment and industrial sectors bring consistent demand outside the main metro.
Are there remote test engineer jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they're less common than in purely software-focused fields, since test engineering often involves physical hardware, lab equipment, or production floor access. About 53% of test engineer openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, which reflects growing flexibility in the field. Software validation, test automation scripting, and test strategy roles tend to be the most remote-friendly specialties.
How can I get hired as a test engineer in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a quality assurance technician or associate test engineer role at one of Illinois's large manufacturers, where companies like Caterpillar and Motorola Solutions regularly bring on new graduates through structured rotational or associate engineering programs. Adjacent roles in manufacturing quality inspection or software QA analysis are common stepping stones. Earning an ASQ Certified Quality Technician credential or completing a relevant capstone project gives early-career candidates a concrete edge in Illinois applications.
Where can I find and apply to test engineer jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to test engineer jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings across industries including manufacturing, aerospace, defense, and technology. Find the roles that fit your experience and location, then apply directly to each one.
See All 67 Test Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Test Engineer Jobs