PRODUCT / R&D ENGINEER in Chicago

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Job DescriptionJob DescriptionCompany: EMI Mills – Division of Schold Manufacturing LLC
Location: Grayslake, Illinois
Job Type: Full-time, on-site About EMI MillsEMI Mills is a specialized division of Schold Manufacturing focused on horizontal milling equipment for industries such as coatings, chemicals, inks, and advanced materials. With a five-person team (including two engineers), EMI combines the stability of Schold’s 75-year history with the agility of a small, growth-oriented company. Position OverviewWe are seeking a hands-on, self-motivated engineer to help grow EMI’s product line and modernize existing equipment with current technologies. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys variety and autonomy. You will:

• Drive innovation by updating existing horizontal milling machines and designing new models.
• Learn and apply milling applications, understanding customer processes in depth.
• Support production—from design to fabrication—assisting with live orders and troubleshooting.
• Work directly with customers to answer technical questions and support installations.
• Advance R&D projects, keeping long-term development on track alongside immediate production needs.

Because EMI is a small team, you will have broad responsibility, setting and tracking your own goals while collaborating closely with other engineers and production staff. Key Responsibilities

• Redesign and upgrade horizontal milling equipment with modern mechanical, electrical, and control technologies.
• Develop new equipment and accessories to expand EMI’s product line.
• Create CAD models, drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs) for production.
• Assist production with technical issues, assembly support, and testing.
• Provide application and troubleshooting support to customers.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, balancing urgent production work with R&D priorities.
• Establish personal goals and milestones; report progress to management.

QualificationsRequired:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechatronics Engineering (or equivalent).
• 3–10 years of experience in industrial machinery design, process equipment, or related fields.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
• Strong mechanical aptitude; comfortable working on the shop floor.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities, and track project progress.

:

• Background in horizontal milling, dispersing, or mixing equipment.
• Familiarity with automation, PLCs, and VFD controls.
• Experience supporting both production and R&D in a small-team environment.

Personal Attributes

• Highly self-motivated with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communicator who works well with customers and colleagues.
• Thrives in a flexible, fast-paced, small-company setting.

We Offer

• The opportunity to shape next- horizontal milling technology.
• A close-knit team where your work makes an immediate impact.
• Competitive salary and year-end performance bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits including paid vacation, 401(k) with match, health, dental, vision, and more.

Salary Range: $75,000 - $100,000 based on experience

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