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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

Solutions Engineer I

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$68K - $99K/yr

... and processes. Therefore, our mission is to build quality into everything we do. Who we are Why ... The Solutions Engineer I position is an entry level position with no previous experience required.

Geologist

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$35 - $41/hr

This position offers the opportunity to work on a variety of geotechnical engineering and ... Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of ...

Work with engineering to troubleshoot equipment, tooling and help with new process developments and ... Experience in orienting, training, assigning, and checking the work of other entry-level ...

Work with engineering to troubleshoot equipment, tooling and help with new process developments and ... Experience in orienting, training, assigning, and checking the work of other entry-level ...

Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Goleta, CA salary details

$53.4K

$99.3K

$153.8K

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

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Goleta, CA is $99,284.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $111,100.00 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 Goleta, CA? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Goleta, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Goleta, CA? For Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Goleta, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Goleta, CA are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Goleta, CA with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Engineer job openings in Goleta, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,284 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Engineering Technician

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

ABOUT THE POSITION AND OUR AGENCY The City of Carpinteria is Accepting Applications for ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Deadline to Apply to be considered for first review of applications: Sunday, August 2, 2026 Salary Range: $65,649 - $90,267 annually plus a generous benefits package The City of Carpinteria is seeking a motivated Engineering Technician to join our Public Works team. Are you looking for a position that offers a variety of engineering projects and the opportunity to grow professionally. Do you want to contribute to projects that make a visible difference in the community you serve.

If so, we encourage you to apply. Under the direct supervision of the Public Works Director/City Engineer, the Engineering Technician performs a variety of office and field technical paraprofessional duties in support of Public Works programs and projects. The Engineering Technician is the entry-level classification in the City's engineering series.

This entry-level position offers the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience supporting a variety of engineering projects and public works programs, including Capital Improvement Projects, from planning and design through construction and inspection. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES Include but are not limited to: Performs technical work in the application of civil engineering knowledge to plan, design, and/or review capital improvement and land development projects. Performs construction project management, inspections, and engineering surveying on capital improvement and land development projects.

Conducts field inspections of public and private construction projects to verify compliance with approved plans, specifications, permits, and applicable regulations. Inspections may require work outside normal business hours, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Prepares engineering plans, reports, studies, specifications, calculations, and cost estimates, including researching and analyzing data.

Performs project management activities related to their preparation. May assist in representing the department at community or stakeholder meetings and workshops, inter-governmental agency meetings, utility coordination meetings, and City boards, committees, and Council meetings. Reviews conditional use permits, coastal development permits, engineering permits, and special event permits.

Prepares permit conditions of approval. Researches, analyzes, and applies technical data to support the planning, design, and implementation of engineering projects. Establishes and maintains effective communication, coordination, and working relationships with City staff and the general public.

Responsible for related duties as required or assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education/Certification: Associate degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in engineering or a related field. An Engineer-In-Training Certificate as issued by California or another state or territory of the United States may be substituted for the degree requirement.

A certificate in any of the civil engineering technology certification programs as issued by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies may also be substituted for the degree requirement. Possession of, or ability to obtain a valid, Class C California driver's license prior to appointment. Experience Required: One year of technical experience in civil engineering or a closely related field.

Relevant internships and comparable technical experience may be considered. Required Knowledge: Principles, practices, and methods of civil engineering including construction, environmental, geotechnical, structural, transportation, and water resources engineering. Capital improvement projects including the phases of planning, regulatory approvals/permitting, environmental documentation, design, right-of-way acquisition, construction, and close-out.

State- and federal-aid funding requirements. Regulations, codes, standards, and/or policies of state and/or federal occupational safety and health, accessibility (Americans with Disabilities Act), and environmental protection. Municipal government operations, rules, and regulations.

Public works department or agency processes and procedures. Construction safety including personal protective equipment. Personal computer hardware and engineering software.

Standard office equipment. Skills/Abilities: Prepare engineering documents, including plans, specifications, cost estimates, calculations, reports, and studies, in support of capital improvement and land development projects. Use hand drafting and computer-aided drafting techniques.

Conduct research and investigations, analyze technical problems, and recommend effective solutions. Interpret and apply local, state, and federal policies, laws, and regulations. Use personal computer (PC) hardware and productivity software and applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, publishing, databases, electronic mail, and calendar and time management software.

Operate standard office equipment. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Provide excellent customer service.

Analyze problems and develop effective solutions. Exercise independent judgment. Organize and prioritize work effectively.

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. SELECTION PROCESS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO BE CONSIDERED FOR FIRST REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS. APPLY BY SUNDAY, AUGUST 2, 2026 @ 11:59 PM Applications must be submitted online.

Click Here: Engineering Technician Employment Opportunity Materials must be complete and clearly indicate the candidate meets the minimum qualifications. Incomplete, late, emailed, and faxed applications are not accepted. Resumes are not considered in lieu of the required employment application.

Please be sure to review the complete job description: Click Here: Engineering Technician Job Description A resume and cover letter are required to be submitted with your online application. Statements made on the application, resume, and supplemental materials are subject to verification. False statements may be cause for immediate disqualification, removal from eligibility list, or discharge from employment.

All completed applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed and assessed for each applicant's ability to meet the minimum work experience, training, and education qualifications. Those candidates whose skills and abilities best meet the needs of the department will be invited to move to the next step in the recruitment process.