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

WSP

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

... entry level position would involve assignments of limited scope and complexity; work supervised in ... review processes. * Communicate with project managers, design team members, contractors, and ...

FieldAI

Sensor Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

We are recruiting across a wide range of experience levels from entry level engineers to senior and ... Sensor Physics: Strong foundation in optics, signal processing, and electromagnetic wave ...

FieldAI

Sensor Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

$70K - $300K/yr

We are recruiting across a wide range of experience levels from entry level engineers to senior and ... Sensor Physics: Strong foundation in optics, signal processing, and electromagnetic wave ...

Applied Mechanical Group

Inside Sales Engineer

Brea, CA

$62K - $78K/yr

The Opportunity This is an entry-level role learning all aspects of AMG products and systems to ... Ability to figure out processes and simplify them in order to maximize work flow. Behavior Skills ...

FieldAI

Robotics QA / QC Engineer

Irvine, CA

$30 - $45/hr

Improve QA processes, test procedures, and operational checklists * Support ongoing system ... entry-level candidates with relevant experience or projects) * Comfort working with physical ...

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Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$53.1K

$98.8K

$153K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Irvine, CA is $98,771.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $110,600.00 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 Irvine, CA? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA? For Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA 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 Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,771 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

WSP

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description


This Opportunity
WSP is seeking an Associate Geotechnical Engineer to work out of our Southern California region (Irvine, San Diego and Los Angeles) The entry level position would involve assignments of limited scope and complexity; work supervised in detail; may give guidance to junior professionals or more junior technician staff; generally more than two years experience post Bachelor's degree or equivalent combinations of graduate level degree and experience.
Candidate is expected to have basic orientation, training and experience in the nature of the consulting business, i.e., how to be a consultant, how to write proposals, reports, client correspondence and internal documents, and how to gain familiarity with the standard procedures and practices associated with their discipline. Typical project assignments include collecting or compiling data, either in the field or from published and unpublished materials, entering data into and extracting data from standard computer programs, and researching the more complex regulatory or technical requirements. Candidate will be required to travel occasionally to field assignments. All work performed by the candidate will be under the supervision of the project manager or senior staff member.
Your Impact
  • Plan and support subsurface explorations (e.g., borings, test pits, CPTs) and coordinate with drillers, surveyors, and utility locators as needed.
  • Identifying ways to improve our field data collection or reporting templates to make our team more efficient and competitive.
  • Log soil and rock in the field; document groundwater, sampling, and drilling conditions; and maintain organized field notes and photo records.
  • Coordinate laboratory testing programs (index, strength, consolidation, corrosion, etc.) and review results for completeness and reasonableness.
  • Perform engineering calculations and analyses (e.g., bearing capacity, settlement, lateral earth pressures, slope stability screening, and seismic site considerations) using accepted methods and software tools.
  • Peer-reviewing the work of junior staff and technicians to ensure our deliverables are error-free and professionally presented.
  • Develop preliminary and final geotechnical recommendations for foundations, slabs, earthwork, excavations, temporary support, and earth retention systems, as applicable to the project.
  • Prepare geotechnical reports, memoranda, figures, and tables that clearly communicate findings, assumptions, and recommendations.
  • Support construction-phase services such as grading/excavation observations, footing subgrade evaluations, pile installation monitoring support, and documentation of nonconformance and corrective actions.
  • Apply QA/QC practices to calculations and deliverables; follow internal standards, checklists, and peer review processes.
  • Communicate with project managers, design team members, contractors, and clients to address technical questions and field issues in a timely manner.
  • Follow health, safety, and environmental requirements; help identify hazards and implement appropriate controls during field activities.
  • Track assigned tasks, budgets, and schedules; provide status updates and proactively raise risks or scope changes.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, or closely related discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • 1 to 3 years of relevant post education experience.
  • Experience with desktop and industry-specific software (e.g., MSOffice, AutoCAD, and MSProject) required.
  • Hands on knowledge on the use of field equipment.
  • Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to establish effective internal and external working relationships.
  • Ability to communicate clearly with on-site contractors, supervisor or project manager regarding work assignments required.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Frequent local travel and occasional out-of-town travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Engineer in Training Certification.
  • Professional Engineer licensure.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.
    WSP Benefits:
    WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.
    Compensation:
    Expected Salary (all locations): $81,000 - $101,500
    WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.
    #LI-AB2

About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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