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Contract Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Semiserve

Process Engineer

Martinez, CA · On-site

PTS Advance is looking for a Process/Chemical engineer for 3+ month contract assignment in Martinez, CA. This position will assist in planning and executing turnarounds, including scope development ...

New

Applied Medical

Process Engineer

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$71K - $80K/yr

Exposure to plastics manufacturing, component-level production, or contract manufacturing ... Process Engineer role offers an exciting opportunity to make scalable impact in medical ...

Applied Medical

Process Engineer

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$71K/yr

Exposure to plastics manufacturing, component-level production, or contract manufacturing ... Process Engineer role offers an exciting opportunity to make scalable impact in medical ...

Applied Medical

Process Engineer

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$71K - $80K/yr

Exposure to plastics manufacturing, component-level production, or contract manufacturing ... Process Engineer role offers an exciting opportunity to make scalable impact in medical ...

SENSATA TECHNOLOGIES HOLDING PLC

Process Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, industrializing, and continuously improving ... contract manufacturers to ensure processes are capable, have sufficient controls in place, can meet ...

Sensata Technologies

Process Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, industrializing, and continuously improving ... contract manufacturers to ensure processes are capable, have sufficient controls in place, can meet ...

Sensata Technologies, Inc.

Process Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, industrializing, and continuously improving ... contract manufacturers to ensure processes are capable, have sufficient controls in place, can meet ...

syncreon

Process Engineer

Rialto, CA · On-site

$90K - $112K/yr

DP World Contract Logistics delivers tailored, scalable, and progressive solutions to customers in ... Interested in joining a dynamic and growing 3PL as a Process Engineer where lots of engineering ...

DP World

Process Engineer

Rialto, CA

$90K - $112K/yr

DP World Contract Logistics delivers tailored, scalable, and progressive solutions to customers in ... Interested in joining a dynamic and growing 3PL as a Process Engineer where lots of engineering ...

NAL Syncreon

Process Engineer

Rialto, CA · On-site

$90K - $112K/yr

DP World Contract Logistics delivers tailored, scalable, and progressive solutions to customers in ... Interested in joining a dynamic and growing 3PL as a Process Engineer where lots of engineering ...

Actalent

Process Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$43 - $53/hr

Process Engineer We are seeking a Process Engineer to support a pharmaceutical manufacturing ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Irvine, CA. Pay and Benefits ...

Worley

Senior Process Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$130K - $191K/yr

We specialize in consulting, engineering, procurement and construction across the project lifecycle ... contract. Where responsibility for updating the Master Documents is handed to the Lead Process ...

Worley Alaska

Senior Process Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$130K - $191K/yr

We specialize in consulting, engineering, procurement and construction across the project lifecycle ... contract. Where responsibility for updating the Master Documents is handed to the Lead Process ...

New

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All JobsContract Process Engineer JobsContract Process Engineer Jobs in California

Contract Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do contract process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract process engineer in California is $90,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Contract Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or process engineering, experience with process optimization, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (like Aspen HYSYS or CHEMCAD), project management tools, and safety compliance standards is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and adaptability are valuable soft skills for managing changing project requirements and collaborating with diverse teams. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and cost-effective process improvements that meet contractual obligations and client expectations.

Do contract process engineers make more money?

Contract process engineers often earn higher hourly rates compared to full-time employees due to the temporary nature of their work and specialized skills. However, they may have less job security and benefits, and total annual income can vary based on project duration and industry demand. Experience, certifications, and technical expertise can also influence earning potential in this role.

How much does a contract process engineer get paid?

A contract process engineer typically earns between $30 and $70 per hour, depending on experience, industry, and location. Salaries can vary based on project scope, certifications, and the complexity of processes managed.

What is a contract process engineer?

Contract Process Engineers are professionals who are hired on a temporary or project-specific basis to design, optimize, and troubleshoot industrial processes within a company. They often work in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, or manufacturing, providing technical expertise to improve production efficiency, safety, and quality. Their responsibilities may include process design, equipment specification, project management, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Because they work on a contract basis, their assignments may vary in length and scope depending on the needs of the employer.

What is the difference between Contract Process Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectContract Process EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, relevant certifications (e.g., Six Sigma)Bachelor's or higher in Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentContract-based, project-specific, often in industrial or manufacturing settingsFull-time, ongoing roles in manufacturing, chemical, or industrial plants
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring temporary or project-based engineersEmployed by companies for continuous process improvement and operations
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for project-based roles and contract workCompared for permanent roles in process optimization

The Contract Process Engineer typically works on temporary, project-specific assignments, focusing on process improvements within a set timeframe. In contrast, the Process Engineer holds a permanent position, overseeing ongoing operations and continuous process optimization. Both roles require similar qualifications but differ mainly in employment type and work scope.

What types of projects or industries do contract process engineers typically work on, and how does this influence their daily responsibilities?

Contract Process Engineers often work on short- to medium-term assignments across industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, oil and gas, and manufacturing. The nature of their projects can range from process optimization and troubleshooting to equipment commissioning and plant upgrades. Depending on the industry and project scope, daily responsibilities may include conducting process simulations, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, preparing technical documentation, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This variety allows for broad experience, but also requires adaptability and strong communication skills to integrate quickly with new teams and workflows.

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

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Contract Process Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Process Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

Contract Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Process Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Process Engineer

Semiserve

Martinez, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

PTS Advance is looking for a Process/Chemical engineer for 3+ month contract assignment in Martinez, CA. 

This position will assist in planning and executing turnarounds, including scope development and post-event evaluations. 

Process engineer tasks include catalyst orders, equipment orders, plan for chemical cleaning or passivation as needed, identify tasks needing process engineer approval for equipment cleanliness or closure. Great communication with TAR group.

Local candidates only. No per diem
Job type: Contract
Start date: Immediately 3 months with possible extension
Schedule: 9/80 or 5/8's
Pay rate: Commensurate to experience


Minimum Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent. 
  • 3-4+ years of experience in process engineering within refining, petrochemical, or related industries. 
  • Familiar with process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS). 
  • Strong understanding of process engineering principles. 
  • Previous refinery experience highly preferred.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Monitor process performance and identify opportunities for improving yield/energy efficiency. 
  • Plan test runs and develops projects to address opportunities.
  • Collaborate with operations, engineering and maintenance teams to resolve operational challenges.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with console and field operators. 
  • Lead hazard evaluations, incident investigations, and management of change.
  • Maintain and update process documentation.  Troubleshoot and maintain unit mass balance within tolerance.  
  • Participate in technology advisory groups and serve as the site liaison with Corporate Technologists.
  • Assess existing corporate standards, identify gaps, and recommend opportunities for improvement and standardization. 



#INDW

Education:Bachelors DegreeEmployment Type: CONTRACTOR

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