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Contract Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Valar Atomics

Senior Process Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

This engineer will own process system architecture from early concept and design through ... Work directly with internal manufacturing, suppliers, and contract manufacturers to resolve ...

Actalent

Senior Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$106K - $138K/yr

Job Title: Senior Process Engineer This Senior Process Engineer role focuses on developing ... Collaborate closely with suppliers, subcontractors, OSATs, and contract manufacturers to align ...

Valar Atomics

Senior Process Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

This engineer will own process system architecture from early concept and design through ... Work directly with internal manufacturing, suppliers, and contract manufacturers to resolve ...

A1J Technologies

Manufacturing Process Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

The Process Engineer works cross-functionally with CNC Programming, Production, Quality, Supply ... Provide manufacturing input to quoting and contract review, including process feasibility ...

Indotronix International Corporation

Material Process Engineer Level 3 Woodland Hills, CA | Onsite | 6-Month Contract | 9x80 Schedule About the Role Join Indotronix as a Material Process Engineer Level 3 to directly impact critical ...

Debut Biotech

Staff Process Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Staff Process Engineer Summary The Staff Process Engineer, Downstream Processing (DSP) will take a ... The candidate will also be a key technical collaborator with external Contract Development ...

Raytheon

Principal Wafer Process Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... Our Focal Plane Operations Process Engineering department provides world class semiconductor and ...

Raytheon

Principal Wafer Process Engineer

Goleta, CA

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... Our Focal Plane Operations Process Engineering department provides world class semiconductor and ...

Raytheon

Principal Wafer Process Engineer

Goleta, CA

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... Our Focal Plane Operations Process Engineering department provides world class semiconductor and ...

Prattwhitney

Principal Wafer Process Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... Our Focal Plane Operations Process Engineering department provides world class semiconductor and ...

Debut Biotech

Staff Process Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Staff Process Engineer Summary The Staff Process Engineer, Downstream Processing (DSP) will take a ... The candidate will also be a key technical collaborator with external Contract Development ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 7, 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

Senior Process Engineer

Valar Atomics

Torrance, CA • On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Own the design, procurement, fabrication, assembly, and commissioning of helium process systems from concept through operation.

  • Lead manufacturing execution for assigned systems, including vendor selection, fabrication oversight, inspections, issue resolution, and acceptance testing.

  • Develop process system documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, piping specifications, operating procedures, and engineering calculations.

Job description

About Valar Atomics
At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.
The Team
As part of the Engineering organization, Mechanical Engineering designs and develops the mechanical systems, components, and equipment that power Valar's advanced nuclear technologies. The team ensures designs are robust, manufacturable, and optimized for long-term performance.
The Role
Valar Atomics is seeking an experienced Senior Process Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and operation of helium systems supporting next-generation high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technology. This engineer will own process system architecture from early concept and design through manufacturing and commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
  • Own the design, procurement, fabrication, assembly, and commissioning of helium process systems from concept through operation.
  • Lead manufacturing execution for assigned systems, including vendor selection, fabrication oversight, inspections, issue resolution, and acceptance testing.
  • Develop process system documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, piping specifications, operating procedures, and engineering calculations.
  • Perform process engineering analyses including mass and energy balances, pressure drop, heat transfer, equipment sizing, gas flow, and transient system behavior.
  • Specify and integrate process equipment including pressure vessels, heat exchangers, adsorption systems, compressors, valves, piping, instrumentation, and gas analyzers.
  • Work directly with internal manufacturing, suppliers, and contract manufacturers to resolve fabrication issues, improve manufacturability, and ensure hardware meets design intent.
  • Support equipment procurement by developing technical requirements, reviewing vendor proposals, and approving manufacturing documentation.
  • Lead system integration, installation, startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of helium process systems.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience designing industrial process systems, gas handling systems, thermal-fluid systems, or related energy systems.
  • Proven experience developing and delivering complex engineered systems from concept through commissioning or operational deployment.
  • Strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and process engineering principles.
  • Experience developing PFDs, P&IDs, process calculations, equipment specifications, and system operating procedures.
  • Familiarity with industrial instrumentation, process controls, and gas analysis systems.
  • Excellent technical communication, documentation, and cross-functional leadership skills.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with helium systems, cryogenic systems, high-pressure gas systems, gas purification, vacuum systems, or high-temperature process equipment.
  • Experience with high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), advanced reactor technologies, or other nuclear energy systems.
  • Familiarity with helium coolant chemistry, impurity control, moisture management, graphite compatibility, and gas sampling systems.
  • Working knowledge of ASME B31.3 Process Piping, ASME Section VIII Pressure Vessels, and applicable industrial gas handling standards.
  • Hands-on experience supporting commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and performance optimization of first-of-a-kind process systems.
  • Experience participating in design reviews, HAZOPs, FMEAs, and system safety analyses.

What We Offer
  • Competitive base salary
  • Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company
  • Comprehensive medical benefits
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite
  • Generous PPE stipend
  • High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy
  • Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement
  • Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
  • The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
Salary
$144,000-$176,000 USD

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