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

Engineer I Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering 0 to 2 years of experience working as an engineer in an ... Familiarity with grain processing, oil refining, natural gas processing, or food plants is a plus.

Engineer I Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Qualifications • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering • 0 to 2 years of experience working ... food plants is a plus. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Employee will be required to communicate in person, via ...

Without even realizing it, you've experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet's food ... Manager Process Engineering Workplace Type: Onsite Ingredion is hiring a Process Engineer to join ...

Without even realizing it, you've experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet's food ... Manager Process Engineering Workplace Type: Onsite Ingredion is hiring a Process Engineer to join ...

CO2 OES Process Engineer

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$90K - $132K/yr

Provide technical and engineering support to CO2 production facilities, including troubleshooting ... Linde serves a variety of end markets such as chemicals & energy, food & beverage, electronics ...

Senior Process Engineer

Bedford Park, IL · On-site

$102K - $136K/yr

Without even realizing it, you've experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet's food ... Develop and deliver complex engineering designs, including process flow diagrams, P&IDs, and cost ...

Chemical Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Your Impact * Assist with performing basic professional process engineering work related to a wide ... manufacturing, food and beverages, and clean/renewable energy industries. * Under general ...

Meat Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Master's degree or higher in Meat Science, Food Science, Food Process Engineering , or a related technical discipline. * Experience within meat manufacturing operations. * Experience working in a ...

Process Engineer Sr - Plant

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$106K - $137K/yr

... access to food, medicine and other goods. We value their trust by making safety our guiding ... Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, and OEMs during equipment installations, upgrades, and ...

Process Engineer Sr - Plant

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$106K - $137K/yr

... access to food, medicine and other goods. We value their trust by making safety our guiding ... Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, and OEMs during equipment installations, upgrades, and ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 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 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 Chicago, IL?

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

Infographic showing various Food Process Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% 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.

Engineer I Process

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

Zachry Group
Construction • 10K+ employees

$75K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Zachry Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 80 rated construction


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