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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dennis Group

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Process Engineers work in every aspect of a project - controls, packaging, mechanical, electrical, building system, architecture, etc., from the conceptual stages to design completion, and throughout ...

Dennis Group

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$78K - $82K/yr

Process Engineers work in every aspect of a project - controls, packaging, mechanical, electrical, building system, architecture, etc., from the conceptual stages to design completion, and throughout ...

CRB

Process Engineer I

San Diego, CA · On-site

The Entry-Level Process Engineer focuses on the design and engineering of manufacturing facility and equipment, supporting facility infrastructure and critical utility systems. Typical tasks include ...

CRB

Process Engineer I

San Diego, CA

The Entry-Level Process Engineer is responsible for supporting the documentation of the process design scope in coordination with other disciplines. The Entry-Level Process Engineer may support field ...

CRB

Process Engineer I

San Diego, CA · On-site

The Entry-Level Process Engineer focuses on the design and engineering of manufacturing facility and equipment, supportingfacility infrastructure and critical utility systems. Typical tasks include ...

Muon Space

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

San Jose, CA

$142K - $169K/yr

... signal processing, cloud systems and more. They make it possible to build, test, launch, and run constellations of satellites for a wide variety of missions. Entry-level software engineers are ...

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All JobsProcess Engineer JobsEntry Level Process Engineer JobsEntry Level Process Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do entry level process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 an entry level process engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering and a solid understanding of process design and optimization fundamentals. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or MATLAB) and knowledge of safety and quality standards are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in project environments. These skills ensure efficient process improvements, adherence to safety protocols, and successful collaboration within engineering teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level process engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level process engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex technical systems, understanding industry-specific regulations, and learning to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. They may also need to quickly grasp company-specific processes and standards while balancing multiple projects under tight deadlines. Seeking mentorship, asking questions, and actively participating in team meetings can help new engineers overcome these hurdles and accelerate their professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and optimize processes; often involved in project planningOperate and monitor manufacturing equipment; troubleshoot issues
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, pharmaceutical industriesManufacturing plants, production facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in process optimizationCompared for hands-on operational roles

In summary, Entry Level Process Engineers focus on designing and improving processes with a bachelor's degree, while Process Technicians handle daily operations and troubleshooting with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What does an entry level process engineer do?

An Entry Level Process Engineer assists in designing, implementing, and optimizing processes within manufacturing or production environments. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze workflows, improve efficiency, ensure safety standards, and troubleshoot production issues. Their responsibilities may also include collecting and interpreting data, preparing technical reports, and supporting quality control measures. This role provides hands-on experience and foundational skills in process engineering, often serving as a starting point for a career in the field.
More about Entry Level Process Engineer jobs
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 Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Entry Level Process Engineer

Dennis Group Inc

Carlsbad, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

Dennis Group’s Process Engineers are key in our projects of designing and building food and beverage processing facilities. Process Engineers work in every aspect of a project - controls, packaging, mechanical, electrical, building system, architecture, etc., from the conceptual stages to design completion, and throughout construction. They provide expertise in flow diagrams, alterations, constraints, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID), layout, install, and commissioning and start-up. Process Engineers enable operational efficiencies for the food and beverage process plants of our clients. Responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

Responsibilities

  • Develop process design basis and select unit operations
  • Develop operation specifications
  • Coordinate with other project disciplines (engineers, designers, architects, etc.)
  • Prepare process flow and piping and instrumentation diagrams
  • Create process flow diagrams
  • Prepare mass and energy balances
  • Size and specify process and process utility equipment
  • Equipment procurement and bid evaluation
  • Assist project management with the development of project scope, budget and schedule for all process related work
  • Help to coordinate the schedules and work of contractors for process equipment installation
  • Work with clients, vendors, and suppliers to develop cost estimates and proposals
  • Provide client assumptions on supply recommendations
  • Develop process and instrumentation drawings (P&IDs)
  • Oversee process and utility equipment installations
  • Provide onsite construction start-up and commissioning support
  • Research process engineering best practices
  • Supporting talent growth within our organization

Required Education Skills and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemical or Process Engineering.
  • 0-3 years of work experience or schooling developing process designs
  • 0-3 years of work experience or schooling preparing process flow diagrams and P&IDs
  • 0-3 years of work experience or schooling sizing and specifying process and process utility equipment.
  • 0-3 years of work experience or schooling developing project scopes, budgets and process-related work schedules
  • Co-op, intern or work experience with professional services, process engineering, and food and beverage firms is a plus
  • Interest in food safety and sanitary design principles and a desire learn about various food and beverage industry standards, practices, and regulations
  • Proficiency with MS Office, MS Project, and AutoCAD
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills with proven client interaction and experience
  • Must meet Travel Requirement - On-site construction project coordination and management with travel requirements between 30-50% of the year

Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift-up to 15 pounds at times.

Travel Requirement

  • Up to 50% travel required to visit project site and other offices.

About Us

We plan, design, engineer, and build food plants for major brands across the country and the world. For the past three decades, we’ve focused exclusively on the food and beverage industry, helping your favorite brands put your favorite foods in the grocery store. Simply put, food isn’t one thing we do, it’s all we do.

Dennis Group offers competitive compensation packages commensurate with experience. We provide comprehensive employee benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid time off including an open vacation policy, as well as bonus, profit-sharing, and retirement plans.

Dennis Group is proud to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.