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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Oak Grove, KY

Hankook Tire

Quality Engineer (Entry Level)

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Process Control Engineer I Department: TP)Quality Control Team Shift: Core business hours are Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm Direct Report: Process Control Unit Manager Type: Exempt: Full-time About the ...

All JobsProcess Engineer JobsEntry Level Process Engineer JobsEntry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Oak Grove, KY

Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Oak Grove, KY salary details

$45.9K

$85.3K

$132.1K

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Oak Grove, KY is $85,296.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $95,500.00 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.
More about Entry Level Process Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Oak Grove, KY? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Oak Grove, KY are:
What cities near Oak Grove, KY are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Oak Grove, KY 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 Oak Grove, KY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,296 per year, or $41 per hour.

Quality Engineer (Entry Level)

Hankook Tire

Clarksville, TN • On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

Job description

Job Title: Process Control Engineer I
Department: TP)Quality Control Team
Shift: Core business hours are Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
Direct Report: Process Control Unit Manager
Type: Exempt: Full-time

About the position

We are looking for a reliable Process Engineer to perform advanced or specialized engineering duties generally focused on troubleshooting, process improvement, and the inspection of products for defects or deviation from specification. Primarily convert corporate new tire designs to meet plant production equipment & specifications. Support plant by interfacing with plant manufacturing, engineering & other internal & external organizations. Ensure product & quality systems integrity. Ensure plant & corporate design manual requirements are being followed. Implement new products & processes & resolve product performance issues. Lead and manage the optimization of the manufacturing process for both legacy and next generation products. You will act as the process engineering expert for a given area within the manufacturing site. Initial training will include formal classes and on-the-job mentoring under an experienced engineer.

Responsibilities are:
  • Work with a "Safety Always" mindset through supporting and promoting continuous improvement of safety and health in the workplace
  • Perform all duties with a "Quality First" mindset through improvement of work processes and procedures to eliminate and prevent defects
  • Learn, contribute and/or support small projects or processes of complex scope, with limited oversight from management
  • Assists in the development of operational plans and implements areas of assigned responsibilities
  • Support to apply and benchmark potential new technologies, products and test method development by developing and validating theories on the physical, chemical and/or mechanical properties of materials and ingredients under various conditions
  • Document and enforce technology and quality standards; develop and control quality management systems and technical specifications
  • Makes recommendations concerning acquisition and use of new technologies and testing equipment to support business needs
  • Evaluate the standardized work process of production; report status to the relevant parties
  • Learn and evaluate internal and customer audits; publish the results; implement and follow up with corrective actions
  • Work with internal customers to understand their testing needs and work collaboratively to create new test methods
  • Maintain and troubleshoot existing equipment and validate testing protocols
  • Communicate regularly with the Manufacturing Units to ensure efficient information sharing
  • Present project status and project closures to internal customers and upper management
  • May participate in intellectual property evaluations and development of patent applications
  • Contribute to cross functional teams in designated area/ process on various improvements and projects
  • Performs other duties as assigned by supporting proposal development, contract documentation and other activities as required
  • Systematically identify causes of problems and identify possible solutions in a Plan - Do - Check - Act methodology
  • Lead the definition and application of efficient, sustainable cleaning, inspection, lubrication and re-tightening cycles (5S)
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management
Requirements are:

Education:

  • (Required) bachelor's degree in a field of science or learning major
  • (Preferred) mechanical/ chemical/ material science/ industrial engineering major or advanced degree in a related field

Experience:

  • (Required) 0+ years of proven engineering experience in the manufacturing industry

Language:

  • (Required) good command of written and spoken English

Skills & Knowledge:

  • Administration and Management - Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources
  • Engineering and Technology - Demonstrated know-how related to practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services
  • Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods
  • Chemistry - Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods
  • Statistical Process Control (SPC) - Knowledge of quality control methodology which employs statistical methods to monitor and control a process
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents
  • Active Listening & Speaking - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times; talking to others to convey information effectively
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action

Physical Demands:

  • Must be able to frequently move about the manufacturing plant campus, general office environments, production areas, and occasionally ascend/descend stairs
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time
  • Must be able to operate a computer and other office productivity machinery
  • Must be able to position self to file documents including the top and bottom drawers of file cabinets
  • Must be able to occasionally move office equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • 401(k), 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance, health insurance, vision insurance, life insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays

Hankook Tire is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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