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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Rapid City, SD

You will implement governance processes for various data inputs to ensure that we make informed ... Experience with Agile, Scrum, or DevOps methodologies. * Familiarity with retail store and/or ...

Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Rapid City, SD salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.7K

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Rapid City, SD is $90,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $101,700.00 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 Rapid City, SD?

The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Rapid City, SD are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Rapid City, SD?

For Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Rapid City, SD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rapid City, SD are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rapid City, SD with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Engineer job openings in Rapid City, SD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,840 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

Rapid City, SD • On-site


Mead & Hunt
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 450 rated engineering

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Established in 1900, Mead & Hunt is a nationally recognized professional services consulting firm. Our planning, design and construction services are available to clients across a wide variety of sectors. From architecture, aviation, food/beverage processing, federal, transportation, water infrastructure and more, our unique methodologies deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions that elevate clients and communities.
Here at Mead & Hunt, our culture is about taking care of people, doing the right thing, and doing what makes sense. We are a flexible company that believes in giving back to our communities. We are employee-owned and support initiatives through our various employee programs. We invest in our employees and build relationships that last.
As a result of our continued growth, Mead & Hunt has an exciting opportunity available for an Entry-Level Civil Engineer to join our Aviation Midwest group at our Rapid City, SD office.
Responsibilities include:
  • Developing plans and specifications
  • Analyzing and preparing engineering reports, and construction cost estimates for various airport design projects
  • Performing drafting tasks in AutoCAD and Civil3D to generate plan sheets
  • Assisting with construction administration and inspection tasks including working in the field at project sites (weekends and nights, as needed)
  • Reading and interpreting FAA Advisory Circulars, geotechnical reports, and survey data to utilize in project designs
  • Other tasks as assigned.

A valid driver's license, the ability to pass background check to gain access to airport sites, and frequent travel (approximately 50%) will be required.
The successful candidate will have a bachelor's degree (or higher) in civil engineering, construction management, or related field from an accredited college or be able to obtain the degree within six months of hire date.
The ideal candidate will have experience with any/all of the following:
  • AutoCAD and/or Civil3D software programs
  • Civil/transportation design coursework
  • Construction field tasks including site grading, utilities, drainage, erosion control, paving, materials testing, and/or surveying
  • Microsoft Excel, Word, and Project software programs

If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are someone who takes initiative, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, complete the online application process for this job posting at www.meadhunt.com/careers.
Mead & Hunt proudly offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, parental leave, a 401K plan with a generous company match, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program.
Mead & Hunt will not sponsor a visa (H-1B, etc.) for this position.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
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