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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

This is an entry-level engineering role designed for a recent graduate with a strong foundation in chemical, food, or related engineering disciplines. The Process Engineer I will support the ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$64.70K - $83.30K/yr

We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Establish routings, methods, processes, and layouts for assembly line. * Provide costs, methods ...

Industrial Engineer I

West Bend, IA · On-site

$74.10K - $87.90K/yr

You play a key part in product launches, process improvements, and capital projects, helping ensure ... This is an entry-level Engineering opportunity with room for long-term career growth. To be ...

Industrial Engineer I

West Bend, IA · On-site

$63.40K - $85.60K/yr

You play a key part in product launches, process improvements, and capital projects, helping ensure ... This is an entry-level Engineering opportunity with room for long-term career growth. To be ...

Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Understanding of Agile delivery process * A robust understanding of requirement authoring practices ...

We are seeking an Entry-Level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Integration of software in a multi-developer team using Continuous Integration process * Functional ...

Quality Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$37 - $39/hr

... welding processes and fabrication tooling • Familiarity with Lean, 5S, and CI tools • Experience in a union environment Role Scope • Entry-level quality engineering role • Supports ...

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Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$86.4K

$133.8K

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Iowa is $86,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry Level Process Engineer Do?

An entry-level process engineer studies the processes an organization uses for manufacturing. As an entry-level process engineer, you monitor and report on manufacturing process equipment, production methods, and chemical interactions. Your responsibilities include evaluating the safety of manufacturing processes, determining efficiency, and making recommendations on improvements across all areas of manufacturing. Your duties also include troubleshooting problems in the manufacturing process, developing and implementing changes, and ensuring company-wide safety. You collaborate with teams to devise solutions to production challenges and adhere to regulations and production standards.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:

Process Engineer

Tessenderlo Group

Davenport, IA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description

PB Leiner is one of the world's leading producers of high quality gelatins and collagen peptides. We supply a growing market in food, pharma, health nutrition and technical applications. In all our efforts, we strive to be The Clear Solution for our customers. We spot and exploit opportunities, and try to anticipate future trends for them. We pursue outstanding quality and choice, as well as smooth delivery. We have a global presence in terms of both our plants and sales support, and count approximately 1,100 collaborators worldwide. PB Leiner is part of Tessenderlo Group.

Job Description

Job Summary:

This is an entry-level engineering role designed for a recent graduate with a strong foundation in chemical, food, or related engineering disciplines. The Process Engineer I will support the optimization and control of the gelatin production process, working closely with experienced engineers and operations teams.

The role focuses on developing technical capability, learning plant systems, and contributing to improvements in yield, quality, efficiency, and cost. This position offers hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment and exposure to continuous improvement, process engineering, and project work.

Key Responsibilities:

Process Support & Improvement

  • Monitor and track key process performance indicators (KPIs) with guidance from senior engineers
  • Analyze production data to identify trends, issues, and improvement opportunities
  • Support initiatives to improve yield, efficiency, and product quality
  • Assist in evaluating usage of utilities, chemicals, and raw materials
  • Participate in root cause analysis and problem-solving activities

Project & Technical Support

  • Support process improvement and small capital projects from concept through implementation
  • Assist in designing and executing process trials and experiments
  • Work cross-functionally with operations, maintenance, and quality teams
  • Collect and validate process data for engineering analysis
  • Participate in equipment commissioning and startup activities

Safety, Health, Environment & Quality (SHEQ)

  • Follow all safety, environmental, food safety, and GMP standards
  • Participate in safety programs, audits, and risk assessments
  • Support HACCP and quality initiatives
  • Learn and apply Process Safety Management (PSM) principles
Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, or related field
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and willingness to learn in a team environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Preferred

  • Internship or co-op experience in manufacturing, engineering, or a related field
  • Exposure to process engineering, production, or continuous improvement concepts
  • Familiarity with data analysis or basic statistical tools
  • Experience working in team-based projects or hands-on lab environments
Additional Information
  • Exposure to a manufacturing environment with noise, machinery, and varying temperatures
  • All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
  • PB Leiner is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. 
  • Benefits from day one. 
  • External applicants must currently be eligible to work in the US