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Chemical Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer

Mountain Pass, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. * Process Engineer I: 0-3 years of work experience in a chemical plant, mining, petroleum, or a similar heavy industrial setting. * Process Engineer II: 3-6 ...

Senior Process Engineer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with a strong background in chemical process environments. In addition to managing the entire project lifecycle-from scope definition to commissioning ...

Senior Process Engineer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with a strong background in chemical process environments. In addition to managing the entire project lifecycle-from scope definition to commissioning ...

Chemical Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85 - $100/hr

Process Design & Optimization * Lead operation, monitoring, and optimization of chemical process ... Analyze Engineering test data to drive design improvements * Develop detailed technical reports ...

The Process Engineer III implements process improvements to meet quality standards, performs ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field. * Experience: * Minimum of 7 ...

Chemical Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Process Design & Optimization * Lead operation, monitoring, and optimization of chemical process ... Analyze Engineering test data to drive design improvements * Develop detailed technical reports ...

Chemical Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Process Design & Optimization * Lead operation, monitoring, and optimization of chemical process ... Analyze Engineering test data to drive design improvements * Develop detailed technical reports ...

The Process Engineer III implements process improvements to meet quality standards, performs ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field. * Experience: * Minimum of 7 ...

The Process Engineer III implements process improvements to meet quality standards, performs ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field. * Experience: * Minimum of 7 ...

Showing results 41-60

Chemical Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$100K

$159.9K

How much do chemical process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical process engineer in California is $99,997.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chemical process engineer?

A chemical process engineer’s responsibilities cover designing and developing processes for transforming raw materials into marketable products. You can hold a chemical process engineer job in an industry that processes natural gases, paper, pharmaceuticals, plastic, food, and other products. You will analyze procedures, communicate effectively with team members, apply math, science, and engineering concepts, and conduct experiments and report the results. Many types of chemical engineering careers exist in chemical production and manufacturing, mineral processing, oil exploration, sustainable engineering, and alternative energy fields. However, you can find chemical engineers with diverse duties in jobs in nearly every industry that creates a product.

What does a chemical process engineer do?

A Chemical Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing processes used in the production of chemicals, fuels, pharmaceuticals, food, and other products. They work to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability in manufacturing plants by analyzing chemical reactions, equipment, and workflows. Chemical Process Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to troubleshoot problems and implement new technologies in production systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical process engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering principles, process design, and safety regulations, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), knowledge of P&ID development, and relevant certifications like Six Sigma are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this role. These skills ensure that processes are efficient, safe, and cost-effective, supporting both operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

What are some typical challenges a chemical process engineer faces when optimizing plant operations?

Chemical Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing production efficiency with safety and environmental regulations, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and integrating new technologies into existing systems. They must collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including operators, maintenance staff, and quality control, to implement process improvements. Staying adaptable and proactive in problem-solving is key to overcoming these challenges while maintaining smooth and cost-effective operations.

What is the difference between Chemical Process Engineer vs Chemical Production Technician?

AspectChemical Process EngineerChemical Production Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in chemical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, optimize, and oversee chemical processes in labs or plantsOperate and maintain equipment on the production floor
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, and energy sectorsChemical manufacturing plants and processing facilities

The Chemical Process Engineer focuses on designing and improving chemical processes, requiring a degree in engineering. In contrast, the Chemical Production Technician handles daily operations and equipment maintenance, often with technical certifications. Both roles are vital in chemical industries but differ in responsibilities, education, and work scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Process Engineer jobs in California?

For Chemical Process Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chemical Process Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chemical Process Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Process Engineer jobs in CA?

For Chemical Process Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chemical Process Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,997 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Senior Associate, Manufacturing Engineer (Chemical Processing)

Harris Geospatial Solutions

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$73 - $136/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Monitor and ensure proper operation of Pre-Clean, Fine Clean, and Plating tanks, maintaining proper tank chemistry.

  • Create and maintain Electronic Process Instructions (EPI) for fabrication and inspection processes, and oversee daily chemical process surveillance.

  • Implement process improvements, develop process plans, and support problem investigations to ensure quality and efficiency in chemical processing operations.


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Senior Associate, Manufacturing Engineering (Chemical Processing)

Job Code: 41857

Job Location: Canoga Park, CA

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days – totaling 80 hours worked – and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

We are seeking aChemical Processing Manufacturing Engineerto join our facility inCanoga Park, CA(Los Angeles area). Utilizing professional judgment and use/application of basic principle, theories, and concepts, the Chemical Processing Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for understanding and providing oversight of the Pre-Clean, Fine Clean, and Plating operations.

Essential Functions:
  • Ensure that the proper tank chemistry is maintained and the tanks are operating within specification to properly clean and plate hardware.
  • Maintain and create Electronic Process Instructions (EPI) for mechanics to follow who will process hardware to specification requirements.
  • Daily surveillance of the chemical processes via borescope inspection, observation/oversight and auditing of activities.
  • Implement continuous process improvements as needed to improve efficiency or support new product needs.
  • Develops detailed process planning (EPI) for fabrication and inspection in compliance to contractual requirements. Applies engineering and quality procedures to support hardware and/or software requirements to assure that delivered products and/or services conform to contractual and company requirements. Develops fabrication and verification processes that ensure quality requirements are met at a minimum cost and minimum time to product.
  • Keeps accurate records for the Chemical Processing department. Maintains the chemistry in Pre-Clean, Fine Clean, and Plating tanks. Perform weekly sampling of tank solutions and submit samples to the lab for testing. Maintains accurate air quality documentation as required by company and state requirements.
  • Provides shop floor fabrication and verification support. Provides directions and training to technicians and inspectors to define pertinent processes.
  • Initiates cause and corrective action investigations in support of programs. Investigates problems which arise in the shops during the fabrication assembly or test of products and recommends solutions.
  • Works concurrently with design engineering and conducts reviews to ensure producibility of hardware. Works with Integrated Product Team members to develop cost estimates and program schedules.
  • Implement statistical process control techniques to manage Clean and Plating tank chemistry, identify problems early and develop process improvements.
  • Assists in developing and implementing facility/equipment plans and tooling fabrication.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related manufacturing engineering experience. Graduate Degree or equivalent with 0 to 2 years of prior related manufacturing engineering experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 6 years of prior related manufacturing engineering experience.
Preferred Additional Skills:
  • Knowledge of Clean Processing and/or Electroplating
  • Capable of creating/modifying electronic process instructions (EPI)
  • A good working knowledge of process specifications and quality requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • Excellent problem solving and communication skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
  • Experience of electronic systems used internally (Delmia, Windchill, ADMS, etc.)

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in the State of California is $73,000 - $136,000. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location.

  • health and disability insurance
  • 401(k) match
  • flexible spending accounts
  • EAP
  • education assistance
  • parental leave
  • paid time off
  • company-paid holidays

The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

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