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Assistant Plant Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Plant Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$76K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Assist with plant expansion projects, layout modifications, and process improvements Train ... Engineering experience with an engineering degree, OR 8-10+ years of related maintenance ...

Engineering Performance & Reliability * Assist with tracking forced outages, derates, and loss of ... Support the analysis of plant heat rate, operating data, and performance trends to identify ...

Power Plant Engineer

Mckittrick, CA · On-site

$140K - $165K/hr

Opportunity Summary The Plant Engineer supports the safe, reliable, efficient, and compliant ... * Assist with control system modifications, alarm management, operator graphics, and automation ...

Opportunity Summary The Plant Engineer supports the safe, reliable, efficient, and compliant ... * Assist with control system modifications, alarm management, operator graphics, and automation ...

Opportunity Summary The Plant Engineer supports the safe, reliable, efficient, and compliant ... * Assist with control system modifications, alarm management, operator graphics, and automation ...

Santa Maria Plant Engineer

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are hiring a Plant Engineer in our Santa Maria, CA office. The Plant Engineer will be ... etc.). * Assist in SOPs development on food safety and food quality for the Santa Maria Plant ...

Santa Maria Plant Engineer

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are hiring a Plant Engineer in our Santa Maria, CA office. The Plant Engineer will be ... etc.). * Assist in SOPs development on food safety and food quality for the Santa Maria Plant ...

... engineering evaluation and troubleshooting of equipment abnormalities. Maintains a consistent and effective level of communications with Assistant Plant Manager, Maintenance Manager, Administrative ...

... engineering evaluation and troubleshooting of equipment abnormalities. Maintains a consistent and effective level of communications with Assistant Plant Manager, Maintenance Manager, Administrative ...

... engineering evaluations and troubleshooting of equipment abnormalities. • Maintains a consistent and effective level of communication with the Assistant Plant Manager, Plant Manager, Operations ...

Reviews and provides maintenance engineering evaluations and troubleshooting of equipment abnormalities. Maintains a consistent and effective level of communication with the Assistant Plant Manager ...

... Areas The Maintenance/Plant engineer has the primary responsibility for: * Ensure reliable ... Oversee outsourced vendor support. * Assist in training maintenance, instrumentation, and ...

Plant Operator

Redding, CA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

This position reports directly to the Senior Plant Engineer. RESPONSIBILITIES : * Operate the plant ... Conduct routine inspections, identify abnormal operating conditions, and assist in troubleshooting ...

At Fortera, you'll work alongside scientists, engineers, operators, and industry experts who are ... Conduct routine inspections, identify abnormal operating conditions, and assist in troubleshooting ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant Plant Engineer information

What is the difference between Assistant Plant Engineer vs Maintenance Engineer?

AspectAssistant Plant EngineerMaintenance Engineer
CredentialsDiploma or Bachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial EngineeringDiploma or Bachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or related engineering
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, production sitesIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, equipment maintenance areas
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, power plants, and large industrial facilitiesCommon in manufacturing, facilities management, and industrial sectors

The Assistant Plant Engineer and Maintenance Engineer roles often overlap in industrial settings, focusing on plant operations and equipment upkeep. The Assistant Plant Engineer typically supports plant management with engineering tasks, while the Maintenance Engineer concentrates on maintaining and repairing machinery. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly, with the Assistant Plant Engineer more involved in operational support and the Maintenance Engineer focusing on maintenance activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant plant engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and foundational knowledge of plant operations. Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), AutoCAD, and industry-standard safety protocols is commonly required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure efficient plant maintenance, minimize downtime, and support overall operational excellence.

How does an assistant plant engineer typically collaborate with other departments within a manufacturing facility?

As an Assistant Plant Engineer, you will regularly work alongside teams such as maintenance, production, and safety to ensure efficient plant operations. Collaboration often involves coordinating equipment repairs, implementing process improvements, and supporting safety initiatives. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as you may need to gather input from operators, report progress to plant managers, and assist with cross-functional projects to optimize plant performance.

Do you need a degree to be an assistant plant engineer?

An assistant plant engineer typically does not require a formal degree but benefits from technical training or certifications in engineering, maintenance, or related fields. Relevant experience, technical skills, and knowledge of plant operations are often more important than a degree for this role.

What does an assistant plant engineer do?

An Assistant Plant Engineer supports the efficient operation and maintenance of manufacturing or processing plants. They assist in planning, coordinating, and supervising engineering projects, equipment maintenance, and facility improvements. Their responsibilities also often include troubleshooting machinery, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and supporting senior plant engineers with technical tasks. This role typically requires a background in engineering and strong problem-solving skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Plant Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Plant Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Plant Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Plant Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

$76K - $90K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

A growing food manufacturing company in the Los Angeles area is seeking a hands-on Plant Engineer to support a major facility expansion and modernization initiative. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineering professional who enjoys being on the production floor, solving equipment challenges, improving plant reliability, and leading capital and process improvement projects. Client Details Our client is a privately held food manufacturing organization specializing in food products and operating multiple production facilities throughout Southern California. The company has established a strong reputation for quality and has experienced steady growth over the past two decades. The organization is currently investing heavily in facility expansion, operational modernization, and digital maintenance systems as it prepares for its next phase of growth. Employees enjoy a collaborative, hands-on environment with high autonomy, strong accountability, and opportunities to directly influence operations and plant performance. Description Drive equipment reliability and operational efficiency improvements Lead equipment installation, startup, commissioning, and upgrade projects Troubleshoot manufacturing equipment involving mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and controls systems Partner with maintenance technicians and vendors to resolve equipment failures and reduce downtime Improve preventive maintenance strategies and asset management processes Support implementation and optimization of CMMS systems Develop documentation, procedures, equipment records, and maintenance standards Conduct inspections to support safety and regulatory compliance requirements Assist with plant expansion projects, layout modifications, and process improvements Train maintenance team members on new equipment and maintenance best practices Work cross-functionally with Operations, Production, Quality, and Leadership teams Profile 5+ years of Plant Engineering experience with an engineering degree, OR 8-10+ years of related maintenance/engineering experience Strong troubleshooting abilities in a manufacturing environment Experience with motors, controls, conveyors, hydraulics, pneumatics, and HVAC systems Ability to read and understand PLC ladder logic Project management and continuous improvement experience Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills Preferred Experience Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related discipline preferred HACCP knowledge CAD experience Plant startup or facility expansion experience Job Offer Competitive salary ranging from $76,000 to $90,000. Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance 401(k) Vacation & Sick Time Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization If you enjoy tackling technical challenges, improving equipment performance, and making a measurable impact in a manufacturing operation, we'd like to hear from you. MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.