2

Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Kalispell, MT

Paving Team-Travel

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

We are proud to have helped engineer and develop bridges, overpasses, highway systems and building ... This is an entry level position providing the selected candidate the opportunity to develop a ...

We are proud to have helped engineer and develop bridges, overpasses, highway systems and building ... This is an entry level position providing the selected candidate the opportunity to develop a ...

We are proud to have helped engineer and develop bridges, overpasses, highway systems and building ... This is an entry level position providing the selected candidate the opportunity to develop a ...

Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Kalispell, MT salary details

$49.1K

$91.3K

$141.4K

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 Kalispell, MT is $91,286.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,900.00 and $102,200.00 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 Kalispell, MT? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT? For Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Engineer job openings in Kalispell, MT as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,286 per year, or $43.9 per hour.
Civil Engineering Specialist - Field

Civil Engineering Specialist - Field

State of Montana

Kalispell, MT

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 hours ago


State Of Montana rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states


Job description

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting two Civil Engineering Specialists in Kalispell. This position is responsible for conducting in-depth engineering and analysis, administering contracts, overseeing projects, and project design, and may serve as a lead worker. Work is assigned through instruction on specific engineering objectives and direction and the incumbent determines the best solution based on established engineering guidelines, knowledge, and skills. Completed work is reviewed for application of sound professional judgment. The position reports to the Engineering Project Manager. This position is part of a career ladder with career advancement opportunities.

For a full job description, please contact Lauren Grayson at lgrayson@mt.gov.

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:
    Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
    Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
    State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
    Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
    Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
    Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
    Benefits apply on first day of employment
    Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer

For information on the Montana Department of Transportation's mission, vision, and values, please visit our website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/about.aspx#values


Required Application Materials:
    A resume and online application detailing your qualifications and work history.

Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as "Relevant."

If you need an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR representative listed above.

Required Education and Experience:
All levels require a combination of education and experience equivalent to Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or a closely related field of study. (Related degrees may include Environmental Engineering, Geologic/Geotechnical Engineering, Materials Engineer, Mechanical Engineering, or Engineering Science)

Entry Level - Civil Engineering Specialist level 1 
Prior work experience is not required for entry level.

Mid-Level - Civil Engineering Specialist level 2 
This position also requires a minimum of 6 months to 2 years of engineering or directly related work experience.

Certifications, licensure, or other credentials include: Proof of passage of the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE).

Top Level - Civil Engineering Specialist level 3 
This position also requires a minimum of 2 years to 4 years of engineering or directly related work experience.

Certifications, licensure, or other credentials include: Top level Engineers are required to have an Proof of passage of the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE), Engineering Intern Certification (EIT), or licensed Professional Engineer.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Develops sufficient engineering knowledge, skill and judgment in a specific practice area to perform the routine engineering tasks in the assigned area. Although the knowledge acquired is in a specific work area, that knowledge and competence should reasonably transfer to other work areas at the same level.
  • Broad knowledge of engineering practices and principles and construction methods, processes and procedures, computer-assisted drafting and design software, and engineering techniques are required for projects of moderate complexity. A journey level knowledge of federal guidelines and procedures regarding road design and construction is also required.
  • Possesses effective oral and written communication skills in order to assist with client, customer, or official contacts and communication pertaining to specific assignment or meetings.

Other Information:

Driver's record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicant's permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201, "State Vehicle Use," and MDT Policy #6.03.001, "State Vehicle Use Policy" are conditions of employment. 
This position is being posted in accordance with the MFPE bargaining unit agreement. Non-bargaining unit employees or employees of another bargaining unit may apply. If the position is not filled with a bargaining unit applicant, the non-bargaining unit applicants may be considered. However, bargaining unit applicants will have preference.

The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at 406.444.6054.

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.


What State Of Montana employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom