R&D Engineer (Protein Processing Technology)

Cozzini • Elk Grove Village, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Cozzini, LLC is seeking an R&D Engineer to join their innovation team. This role involves designing machinery for the protein industry, focusing on making operations faster, cleaner, and more sustainable. The engineer will work on complex machine design, automation, and hands-on problem-solving, with opportunities to move between 3D CAD modeling and physical prototype testing within the same week. The company engineers advanced capital equipment solutions for the protein industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in R&D engineering, preferably within food processing or capital equipment manufacturing environments
• Working knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines and technologies outlined within the position overview
• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD for equipment design and modeling
• Familiarity with USDA, FDA, and other applicable food safety regulations and standards
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel as needed to support equipment installations and customer-related activities

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with food processing systems, particularly within the protein processing industry
• Previous experience developing, supporting, or contributing to patent-related projects or innovations
• Experience within capital equipment manufacturing environments

Responsibilities

• Conduct research into emerging industry trends to design and develop cutting-edge machinery for food processing applications.
• Build, test, and validate prototypes, analyze performance data, and refine them for market launch.
• Work with mechanical systems (grinding, mixing, vacuum, and pumping), electrical/automation systems (servo motion, low-voltage AC, control panels), and sanitary stainless steel fabrication.
• Ensure designs meet safety and reliability standards, including OSHA compliance, CE certifications, and strict sanitary standards.
• Collaborate with Sales to understand customer needs and work with Manufacturing and Quality to ensure designs are manufacturable.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Health Savings Account w/ ER contribution
• Flexible Spending Account w/ ER contribution
• Dental Insurance
• Company Paid Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Life insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• 401k
• Vision insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level