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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Plainfield, IL

The Process Engineer I will have entry level to two years' experience and be responsible for routine process engineering and design tasks for assigned projects. Work will be primarily office based ...

Engineer I Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

The Process Engineer I will have entry level to two years' experience and be responsible for routine process engineering and design tasks for assigned projects. Work will be primarily office based ...

Engineer I Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

The Process Engineer I will have entry level to two years' experience and be responsible for routine process engineering and design tasks for assigned projects. Work will be primarily office based ...

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a staff Chemical Process Engineer for our ... entry-level technical assistance on various environmental, design, and construction issues.

Be Seen First

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and process-related issues. * Work closely ...

AECOM is seeking Entry Level Transportation Engineers to be based in Chicago, Illinois. This ... Follows internal quality control processes. * Collects and analyzes data under the supervision of ...

Design Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $48/hr

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer ...

In this entry-level role, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and designers to develop ... Knowledge of local, state, and federal engineering standards and permitting processes. * Engineer ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Plainfield, IL salary details

$48.2K

$89.7K

$138.9K

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Plainfield, IL is $89,690.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $100,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Plainfield, IL?

The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Plainfield, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Plainfield, IL?

For Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Plainfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Plainfield, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Plainfield, IL are:

What cities near Plainfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs?

Cities near Plainfield, IL with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Engineer job openings in Plainfield, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,690 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Engineer I Process

Downers Grove, IL

Zachry Group
Construction • 10K+ employees

$75K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Zachry Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Zachry Group is seeking a Process Engineer I for our Downers Grove Engineering Design Center.  The Process Engineer I will have entry level to two years' experience and be responsible for routine process engineering and design tasks for assigned projects.  Work will be primarily office based but may involve some short-term assignments at production sites and/or possibly extended durations.

    Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering
    0 to 2 years of experience working as an engineer in an industrial construction/services capacity.
    Experience in project development applying standard engineering techniques, procedures and criteria to size/select equipment and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
    Solid background in pump/piping hydraulic evaluations rather from experience or course work.
    Experience in sizing and rating pumps, vessels, and exchangers from experience of course work.
    Experience in PFD and P&ID development.
    Good Communication Skills (Active Listening, Verbal, and Written)
    Complex Problem Solving (STEM)
    Critical Thinking 
    Attention to Detail
    Judgment and Decision Making is a strength.
    Proficient with computer engineering software and V-Basic programming languages a plus
    Strong desire to learn


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
    Experience as a Co-Op/Intern or Process Engineer in any of oil refining, petrochemical, corn wet milling, oil seed processing, decarbonization or energy transition industries.
    Familiarity with grain processing, oil refining, natural gas processing, or food plants is a plus.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Employee will be required to communicate in person, via telephone, email, manual dexterity, finger dexterity, multi limb coordination, oral expression, and comprehension. May be required to lift, carry and move objects safely.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Will work in a general office environment. Capable of operating and functioning in a fast-paced work environment. Must possess a vision (corrected or uncorrected) that allows for clear visibility from a distance of 20 inches or less. 
The above description covers the fundamental responsibilities of the Process Engineer I position. It shall not be construed as a complete listing of all miscellaneous, incidental or similar duties which may be required from day-to-day.
Zachry Group is dedicated in providing a Safe and Drug Free work environment; and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  

Salary/Pay Rate:

  • In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this Illinois position, Electrical Engineer I, is between $75,400 and $97,560 annually. Actual compensation will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law.

Benefits:
Process Engineer I is eligible for participation in Zachry's Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits. This position is also eligible for participation in the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan. 
 

Paid Time Away:

  • The Process Engineer I is also eligible for paid time away benefits, including company-provided paid time off and holidays, in accordance with applicable company policies.

#LI-JL1 #Hiring #DownersGrove #Engineer #Process

    Read and understand client objectives and be aware of the engineers' role in meeting them.
    Complete sizing and rating of various equipment like pumps, horizontal and vertical vessels, shell and tube heat exchangers, and air coolers.
    Augment detail in process flow diagrams and process and instrumentation diagrams.
    Augment detail in heat and material balance information using various commercial software.
    Perform hydraulic analyses and calculations for piping systems.
    Present technical information to peers or other personnel for review, and to incorporate in technical specifications to be issued for procuring equipment and instruments.
    Analyze problems and take appropriate action to ensure continuous and reliable operation of equipment and systems.
    Evaluate equipment and processes to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
    Evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria using judgment in making minor adaptations and modifications.
    Managing data input/transfer for line lists, equipment specifications, and instrument datasheets.
    Ability to independently organize and prioritize work assignments and coordinate a variety of tasks, with good attention to detail and ability to deal with conflicting priorities and deadlines.
    Other duties as assigned.
 


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About Zachry Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924