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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrate ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes. Leadership ... This is an entry level position. Engineer associate's have acquired a Bachelor's degree in ...

... business processes surrounding energy efficiency, critical asset performance and workforce ... training is available. ** Entry Level Candidates are Encouraged to Apply!!!** General ...

... business processes surrounding energy efficiency, critical asset performance and workforce ... training is available. ** Entry Level Candidates are Encouraged to Apply!!!** General ...

Naval Architect - Entry level

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Must hold an active SECRET clearance ENGINEERING Perform engineering, mathematical, and statistical ... processes and instructions, develop process guides using Microsoft or other appropriate ...

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Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$49.1K

$91.2K

$141.3K

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

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Virginia is $91,228.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,900.00 and $102,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level process engineers do not earn that level of salary, senior process engineers or those in executive roles in high-paying industries like oil and gas or pharmaceuticals can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership responsibilities.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes management responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living regions.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, software, aerospace, and electrical engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in leadership or specialized roles. High salaries are typically associated with industries requiring advanced technical expertise, certifications, or managerial responsibilities.

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 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.

Are process engineers in high demand?

Process engineers are in high demand across manufacturing, chemical, and energy industries due to their role in optimizing production and reducing costs. Employers seek candidates with strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of process simulation tools, and relevant certifications, making entry-level positions competitive and promising for career growth.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,228 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Engineer Assc - Engineer

Aep

Roanoke, VA

$74K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date

07-09-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

This role is responsible to the assigned manager for performing beginning to intermediate level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

Job Description

What You'll Do:

Technical Expertise: Possesses intermediate level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis. Demonstrates competency in analytical techniques necessary to handle assignments of moderate complexity. (e.g., by dividing the problem into component steps, and performing the analysis necessary to complete each step). Exhibits ability to understand interrelationship between systems and component equipment. Demonstrate ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.

Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entity as necessary to complete routine activities. Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees.

Planning & Organization Ability: Coordinates the development of input necessary to forecast costs for the routine projects, improvements requisitions, etc. Uses scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Initiates corrective action when project objectives are not being met. Problem Solving & Initiative: Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine. Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.

Communication: Develops, reviews, or presents technical reports such as improvement requisitions, studies, and analyses in as clear, concise and effective fashion.

Interpersonal Skills: Is an active team member. Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system. Identifies key stakeholders. Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus.

Decision Making: Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures. Makes decisions that affect the work of the team. Aware of risks. Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.

Business Awareness & Characteristics: Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.

Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the Engineer Assc level, with increased educational, skill, experience and certification requirements for higher level Engineers.

What We're Looking For:

This is an entry level position. Engineer associate's have acquired a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*.

Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at the engineer level.

*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

**VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non ABET accredited program.

Where You'll Work:

On-Site in our New Albany, OH or Roanoke, VA location

What You'll Get:

Entry Level: $84,000

In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-007

Compensation Range:

$74,551.00 - $128,688.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.