Developmental Engineers Provide Advanced Skill Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry‑level engineers earn between $70,000 and $90,000 annually. Mid‑level professionals command $90,000 to $120,000. Senior engineers typically receive $120,000 to $160,000, while lead or principal roles can reach $160,000 to $200,000 per year, depending on company size and geographic location.

Core technical skills include CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, next‑generation sequencing platforms (Illumina, PacBio, Oxford Nanopore), GMP‑compliant bioprocessing, LIMS configuration, and data analysis with Python or R. Certifications such as GMP, CLIA, Certified Professional in Laboratory Animal Science (CPLAS), or Certified Bioinformatics Engineer add significant value.

While laboratory‑centric tasks usually require on‑site presence, many companies offer hybrid or fully remote arrangements for data‑analysis, computational modeling, and process‑optimization positions. Remote roles often involve managing cloud‑based sequencing pipelines or overseeing LIMS configurations.

Typical trajectories move from R&D Engineer to Senior R&D Engineer, then to Lead Engineer or Principal Scientist. From there, professionals can advance to Director of Development, VP of Engineering, or Chief Scientific Officer roles, depending on leadership aptitude and business acumen.

Key trends include CRISPR‑based therapeutics, synthetic biology platforms, AI‑driven drug discovery, automated bioprocessing, and regenerative medicine. Companies increasingly invest in data‑centric pipelines, smart manufacturing, and regulatory‑ready platforms, expanding demand for engineers who can integrate biology, engineering, and compliance.