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Food Process Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$123K - $159K/yr

You are responsible for leading site based process engineering projects and activities that drive ... Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and ...

Process Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$123K - $159K/yr

You are responsible for leading site based process engineering projects and activities that drive ... Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and ...

Process Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Apply engineering principles to low-acid aseptic food and beverage manufacturing processes. * Assist with process validation, optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives. * Help ensure ...

Senior Process Engineer

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Willingness and ability to travel (50%) * 5-7 years experience in process engineering or food manufacturing Personal Characteristics: * An ambitious individual that wants to grow their skillset at ...

... food, enable e-commerce and digital connectivity, and help create a global supply chain that is ... Bachelor's degree in engineering required. * 3-5 years of experience in Process Engineering.

Process Engineer

Madera, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

... food, enable e-commerce and digital connectivity, and help create a global supply chain that is ... Bachelor's degree in engineering required. * 3-5 years of experience in Process Engineering.

Process Engineer II

Crockett, CA · On-site

$81K - $151K/yr

Five years of Chemical/Process Engineering experience desired; prior knowledge in Food industry or Consumer Product Goods is preferred * Previous work experience developing or assisting in the ...

Process Engineer II

Crockett, CA · On-site

$81K - $151K/yr

Five years of Chemical/Process Engineering experience desired; prior knowledge in Food industry or Consumer Product Goods is preferred * Previous work experience developing or assisting in the ...

... in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more ... As a Process Engineer, you would be responsible for supporting customers by optimizing GEA ...

Quality Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Microbiology, food process engineering, or similar discipline. * Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing ...

Company Description CRB is a leading provider of sustainable engineering, architecture ... food and beverage industries. Our more than 1,400 employees provide best-in-class solutions that ...

Company Description CRB is a leading provider of sustainable engineering, architecture ... food and beverage industries. Our more than 1,400 employees provide best-in-class solutions that ...

Process Engineer, Tech Ops

Orange, CA · On-site

$135K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Engineering, Materials Science, Food Science, or a related scientific field. * 3+ yeas of process engineering experience in solid dose manufacturing ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Process Engineering information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do food process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for food process engineering in California is $90,813.00, 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 is food process engineering?

Food process engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on designing and optimizing processes used in the production, processing, packaging, and distribution of food. It combines principles of chemical, mechanical, and biological engineering to ensure food safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability. Food process engineers work on developing new food products, improving existing manufacturing processes, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Their work is essential in scaling up food production from small batches to large-scale industrial operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food process engineer?

To thrive as a Food Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or food engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with process simulation software, food safety regulations, and quality management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and innovative food production processes that meet industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by food process engineers when scaling up production from pilot to full-scale manufacturing?

Food process engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining product consistency, ensuring food safety, and optimizing process efficiency when transitioning from pilot-scale to full-scale production. Equipment differences, ingredient variability, and changes in processing conditions can affect texture, flavor, and shelf life. Close collaboration with quality assurance, R&D, and production teams is essential to address these challenges and implement effective solutions that uphold product standards and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Food Process Engineering vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Process EngineerFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Food Engineering or related field; often requires engineering licensureBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or Technology; certifications like CFTech are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing food production processes, often in manufacturing plants or R&D labsDeveloping new food products, quality control, and product testing in labs or production facilities
Industry UsageUsed in process design, equipment selection, and process improvement within food manufacturingFocuses on product development, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance

Food Process Engineers primarily focus on designing and improving food production processes, ensuring efficiency and safety. Food Technologists concentrate on developing new food products and maintaining quality standards. Both roles are essential in the food industry but serve different functions related to process optimization versus product development.

How much do food process engineers make?

Food process engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those in managerial roles can earn over $100,000. Skills in process optimization, quality control, and familiarity with manufacturing equipment can influence salary levels.

What is the career of a food process engineer?

A food process engineer designs, develops, and improves manufacturing processes for food products to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency. They work with equipment, automation, and quality control systems in food production facilities, often requiring knowledge of food science, engineering principles, and regulatory standards. Careers in this field typically involve problem-solving, process optimization, and compliance with safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Food Process Engineering jobs in California?

For Food Process Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Food Process Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Process Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Process Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Process Engineer

Orange, CA • On-site

$123K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Syensqo rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Syensqo is all about chemistry. We're not just referring to chemical reactions here, but also to the magic that occurs when the brightest minds get to work together. This is where our true strength lies. In you. In your future colleagues and in all your differences. And of course, in your ideas to improve lives while preserving our planet's beauty for the generations to come.

We are looking for: 

  • You are responsible for leading site based process engineering projects and activities that drive continuous improvement, resolve chronic manufacturing issues, introduce new products or re-site existing products.
  • This position also supports and deploys GBU wide best practices and manufacturing standards along with supporting new capital investments and technology common across Composite Materials Manufacturing sites.

We count on you to:  

  • Promote an observable culture of process safety, quality, and customer service within their organizational control.
  • Support the short term tactical requests from the site-based team while managing the long term strategic projects set forth by the global process engineering team.

You can count on us:

  • This position is typically an entry role into the broader technical and operational management organization. 
  • This includes building a broad network across functions and other manufacturing locations.  
  • Significant effort is spent to develop you for your next position within the organization.
  • There are various technical and operational ladders available for development.

You will bring:

  • Bachelors of Science (Engineering Preferred)
  • Previous experience in quality/process engineering function in manufacturing environment
  • Electrical, programming, process monitoring and/or automation implementation experience preferred
  • Continuous improvement background with demonstrated experience in problem solving and root cause analysis
  • Preferably has experience in composite material / adhesive material manufacturing or other similar continuous web process industries (paper, film, foil, or textile industries)
  • Six Sigma Black Belt certification (preferred)
  • 5 - 10 years' experience in manufacturing/process engineering

Desired skills:

  • Excellent organizational skills, ability to multi-task
  • Understanding manufacturing processes and value chain.
  • Understand key operational metrics and communicate across organization to achieve clear alignment and focus.
  • Understanding of quality systems, ISO9001/AS9100 requirements.
  • Understanding processes to engage cross-functional teams to solve quality and process capability problems.

Desired behaviors:

  • Communicate effectively with all levels of the organization
  • Manage priorities and multitask from a number of sources
  • Data driven, strong analytical skill set. 

You will get:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • The U.S. base salary range reasonably expected to be paid for this position is $123,400-$159,600 per year. Since actual compensation packages are based on a variety of factors unique to each candidate we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted base salary range. Total compensation for this role also includes bonus and/or other incentives.
  • 16, or more weeks, of maternity/paternity and co-parenting leave, according to local regulations
  • Training platform for all employees
  • Free well-being sessions (physical and psychological)

Additional information:

Flexibility to travel to other locations and work outside normal working hours as required by the projects (could be 5-10% travel)

About us

  • Syensqo is a science company developing groundbreaking solutions that enhance the way we live, work, travel and play. Inspired by the scientific councils which Ernest Solvay initiated in 1911, we bring great minds together to push the limits of science and innovation for the benefit of our customers, with a diverse, global team of more than 13,000 associates. Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and consumer goods, planes, cars, batteries, smart devices and health care applications. Our innovation power enables us to deliver on the ambition of a circular economy and explore breakthrough technologies that advance humanity.
  • At Syensqo, we seek to promote unity and not uniformity. We value the diversity that individuals bring and we invite you to consider a future with us, regardless of background, age, gender, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, ability or identity. We encourage individuals who may require any assistance or accommodations to let us know to ensure a seamless application experience. We are here to support you throughout the application journey and want to ensure all candidates are treated equally. If you are unsure whether you meet all the criteria or qualifications listed in the job description, we still encourage you to apply.
  • Syensqo is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.

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