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Food Process Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Novolex

Process Engineer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple ... This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. • Develop solutions to problems ...

Novolex

Process Engineer

Franklin Park, IL

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple ... This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. Develop solutions to problems that ...

Novolex

Process Engineer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple ... This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. · Develop solutions to problems ...

Novolex

Process Engineer

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple ... This person will be the plant's main process engineering expert. Develop solutions to problems that ...

Zachry Group

Engineer III Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$106K - $149K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering 6+ years of experience working as a Process Engineer ... plant, food/beverage, corn wet milling, oilseed processing, decarbonization and/or energy ...

Zachry Group

Engineer II Process

Downers Grove, IL

$84K - $119K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering 3 - 7 years of experience working as a Process Engineer ... plant, food/beverage, corn wet milling, oilseed processing, decarbonization and/or energy ...

Zachry Group

Sr Engineer Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$148K - $211K/yr

Successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team supporting process engineering and ... Food and Beverage Industry Experience in gas purification technologies such as Pressure Swing ...

Zachry Group

Engineer III Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$106K - $149K/yr

... Engineering Design Center. The Process Engineer III will be responsible for routine process ... plant, food/beverage, corn wet milling, oilseed processing, decarbonization and/or energy ...

Zachry Group

Engineer II Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$84K - $119K/yr

Coordinates with High Value Engineering Center for engineering execution. * Evaluates equipment and ... plant, food/beverage, corn wet milling, oilseed processing, decarbonization and/or energy ...

Tetra Pak

Be Seen First

Senior Process Engineer

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Develop understanding of what is required for project engineering commercial food processing production facilities. Including the use of problem solving, thermodynamics, flow dynamics, mass balance ...

Tetra Pak

Be Seen First

Senior Process Engineer

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Develop understanding of what is required for project engineering commercial food processing production facilities. Including the use of problem solving, thermodynamics, flow dynamics, mass balance ...

Tetra Pak

Senior Process Engineer A

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Develop understanding of what is required for project engineering commercial food processing production facilities. Including the use of problem solving, thermodynamics, flow dynamics, mass balance ...

Zachry Group

Sr Engineer Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$148K - $211K/yr

Successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team supporting process engineering and ... in Food and Beverage Industry • Experience in gas purification technologies such as Pressure ...

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All JobsFood Process Engineering JobsFood Process Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Food Process Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51K

$94.8K

$146.8K

How much do food process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for food process engineering in Chicago, IL is $94,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 annually. 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 typically involve problem-solving, process optimization, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
What are popular job titles related to Food Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? For Food Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Food Process Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Food Process Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Process Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,792 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Industrial Process Design Engineer

CivicMinds, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position: Industrial Process Design Engineer
Location: Greater Chicago Area, IL
Type: Fulltime, onsite, direct hire
About the job:
This company is a well-respected 100+ year old Architecture, Engineering and Construction firm. The firm is headquartered in Chicago, with offices in New York, Raleigh and Warsaw, Poland. Our beautiful corporate office is located in Chicago's West Loop, convenient to transportation. We offer all employees a competitive wage and benefits package. company is proud to be 100% employee owned. we focus on our community through our emphasis on community service, green initiatives and sustainable design delivering "best in class" creative project solutions.
Overview
We are seeking a talented Engineer to join our Industrial Process Engineering group. As a key member of our dynamic team, you will drive the development of creative and effective solutions for a diverse range of clients, with a primary focus on industrial food processing and consumer packaged goods. From process flow diagrams to equipment selection, your expertise will play a pivotal role in delivering "best in class" solutions that exceed client expectations.
General Responsibilities
  • Lead or assist in Master Planning and design activities for food processing and industrial process lines.
  • Develop process flow diagrams, equipment lists, and utility estimates to guide project execution.
  • Prepare comprehensive equipment bid packages, including drawings, specifications, and performance criteria.
  • Collaborate with equipment vendors to gather essential utility and process information required by other disciplines.
  • Coordinate process utility design with equipment specifications and other building design disciplines.
  • Manage the shop drawing process for process-related equipment and oversee equipment procurement and installation.
  • Support construction administration activities, including equipment start-up and commissioning.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field.
  • 5-10 years of experience in consumer products, food, or finished goods manufacturing.
  • Proficiency in analyzing interrelationships between different design elements.
  • Strong analytical skills and knowledge of relevant analysis methods.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative mindset.

Benefits:
  • Medical insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Disability insurance
  • Paid paternity leave
  • Paid maternity leave
  • Commuter benefits
  • Tuition assistance

Apply