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Food Manufacturing Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Tyrone, PA ยท On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

... a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. This role connects industrial engineering, process optimization, and continuous improvement execution while partnering closely with Operations ...

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Food Manufacturing Engineering information

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$80K

$123.1K

$154K

How much do food manufacturing engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for food manufacturing engineering in the United States is $123,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Manufacturing Engineering vs Food Processing Technician?

AspectFood Manufacturing EngineeringFood Processing Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical training
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes in factoriesOperate and maintain processing equipment on the production line
Industry UsageUsed by companies to improve efficiency and product quality

Food Manufacturing Engineering focuses on designing and improving production processes, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, Food Processing Technicians handle daily operations and equipment maintenance, often with technical training. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What is the highest paying job in food engineering?

The highest paying roles in food manufacturing engineering typically include senior engineering managers, plant directors, or operations directors, with salaries often exceeding $120,000 annually. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality standards.

What engineers make $500,000?

In food manufacturing engineering, senior-level engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in process optimization or automation can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in leadership roles or with bonuses and profit sharing. Such high salaries are more common in large companies or executive positions overseeing multiple facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Manufacturing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, food science, and process optimization, often supported by a degree in chemical, mechanical, or food engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, process control systems, and industry-specific standards such as HACCP or SQF certifications is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating across departments and addressing production challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food production in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In food manufacturing engineering, senior-level engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in process optimization or automation can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially in leadership roles or large companies. High compensation often involves managerial responsibilities, project management, or working in high-demand sectors within the industry.

What is Food Manufacturing Engineering?

Food Manufacturing Engineering is a specialized field that focuses on the design, development, and optimization of processes and equipment used to produce food products on an industrial scale. Professionals in this field apply principles of engineering, biology, and chemistry to ensure food safety, quality, and efficiency in manufacturing operations. They work on everything from developing automated processing lines to improving packaging and storage methods. This role is integral to meeting industry standards and regulatory requirements while also innovating for better productivity and sustainability.

What can you do with a food engineering degree?

A food engineering degree prepares individuals for roles such as food process engineer, quality assurance manager, or production supervisor in the food manufacturing industry. Graduates can work on developing, optimizing, and ensuring the safety of food production processes, often using skills in process design, food science, and equipment operation.

What are some common challenges faced by engineers in food manufacturing, and how can they be effectively managed?

Engineers in food manufacturing frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining product quality while optimizing production efficiency, ensuring compliance with stringent safety and hygiene regulations, and adapting to evolving automation technologies. Effective management of these challenges involves staying current with industry standards, collaborating closely with quality assurance and operations teams, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives. Strong problem-solving skills, proactive communication, and a willingness to learn new technologies are essential for success in this dynamic environment.
More about Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Food Manufacturing Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Manufacturing Engineering job openings in the United States 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 $123,079 per year, or $59.2 per hour.
Project Engineering Manager, Food Manufacturing

Project Engineering Manager, Food Manufacturing

Ethos

Cumming, GA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Project Engineering Manager, Food Manufacturing

As a trusted authority in project management with equipment automation, this role tackles the most complex challenges, turning visionary concepts into reality.

Position Responsibilities:

ยท Responsible for developing preliminary designs and specifications for engineering and materials, while also preparing project cost estimates.

ยท Conduct research, feasibility studies, and economic studies to ensure the design is both viable and cost-effective.

ยท Determine design criteria based on required standards and codes, and validate field work, creating as-built drawings to document the final outcome.

ยท Review and check engineering projects for accuracy and soundness and manage project execution by guiding vendors and contractors.

ยท Coordinate project schedules with plant personnel, vendors, and contractors, ensuring alignment with management and engineering teams to successfully implement plans.

ยท Coordinate and provide direction to equipment vendors to plan layouts, ensure utility requirements are met, and maintain installation schedules.

ยท Review work products submitted by consultants, offering recommendations for adjustments as necessary.

ยท Maintain comprehensive documentation, including equipment manuals, mechanical and electrical drawings, parts lists, specifications, and vendor/service contact information, ensuring all project details are properly organized and accessible.

Requirements

    • Bachelorโ€™s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, or related field and 5+ years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
    • 2+ yearsโ€™ experience in a position of leadership to include team development and management, required.
    • Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
    • Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
    • Must possess Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills.
    • Proficient in engineering economics.
    • Proficient in AutoCAD.
    • Proficient in Microsoft Excel spreadsheet software and Word processing software, other Microsoft Office products.
    • Energized by collaboration through travel to other locations. (50% of the time).
    • Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry.
    • Previous experience in the management of multi-million dollar projects with large scopes.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development