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Food Processing Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's or master's degree in food engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering * 5+ years of food processing or food manufacturing experience * Experience scaling processes from ...

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering. * 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing or food processing, preferably in aseptic processing. * Experience with ...

Qualifications: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering. 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing or food processing, preferably in aseptic processing.

Process Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's or master's degree in food engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering * 5+ years of food processing or food manufacturing experience * Experience scaling processes from ...

The Process Engineer will focus on food process engineering, process development, and scale-up, ensuring manufacturing systems consistently deliver high-quality products that meet defined ...

The Process Engineer will focus on food process engineering, process development, and scale-up, ensuring manufacturing systems consistently deliver high-quality products that meet defined ...

... food and beverage processing facilities. Process Engineers work in every aspect of a project - controls, packaging, mechanical, electrical, building system, architecture, etc., from the conceptual ...

Food Process Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Preferred Masters in Food Science/Engineering, Material Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics or a related degree ? 3-5+ years of experience in process research in the food industry ...

Uprite Construction is seeking a motivated Project Engineer to support the successful delivery of ... MEP, Cold storage, industrial, food processing, manufacturing, refrigerated warehouse, or ...

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Food Processing Engineer information

See California salary details

$59.2K

$86.6K

$116.5K

How much do food processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for food processing engineer in California is $86,590.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $105,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Processing Engineers in ensuring product safety and quality?

Food Processing Engineers often encounter challenges related to maintaining strict safety and quality standards while optimizing production efficiency. They must regularly troubleshoot issues involving contamination risks, equipment malfunctions, or deviations from regulatory requirements. Collaboration with quality assurance teams and continuous monitoring of processes are essential to address these challenges. Staying updated with evolving food safety regulations and implementing new technologies for quality control are also key aspects of the role.

What is a Food Processing Engineer?

A Food Processing Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and optimizes processes and equipment used in the production, preservation, packaging, and distribution of food products. They apply principles of engineering, biology, and chemistry to ensure food safety, quality, and efficiency in food manufacturing. Their work often involves improving production methods, implementing new technologies, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Food Processing Engineers play a crucial role in bringing safe and nutritious food from farm to table.

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

To thrive as a Food Processing Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or food engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, process control systems, and food safety regulations such as HACCP is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and operation of food processing systems, meeting both regulatory standards and production goals.

What is the difference between Food Processing Engineer vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Processing EngineerFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's in Food Engineering or related field; certifications varyBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or Technology; certifications may include HACCP, SQF
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, R&D labsLaboratories, quality control, product development settings
Industry UsageDesigning processing systems, optimizing production processesDeveloping, testing, and ensuring food safety and quality

Food Processing Engineers focus on designing and improving food manufacturing processes, while Food Technologists concentrate on product development, quality, and safety. Both roles are essential in the food industry and often collaborate to ensure efficient production and high-quality products.

What are popular job titles related to Food Processing Engineer jobs in California? For Food Processing Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Processing Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Food Processing Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Food Processing Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Food Processing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Processing Engineer job openings in California 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 $86,590 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Process Engineer

$110K - $130K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Gehl Foods rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 401 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Description

Now Hiring: Process Engineer
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Salary Range: 110K - 130K


Why join our team?  

  • Full benefits package - medical, dental, vision & 401(k) match  
  • Generous PTO & holidays  
  • Growth opportunities to expand skillsets and enhance career  
  • Amazing team & culture focused on:  

Communication | Community Involvement | Wellness | Employee Activities  


Other Benefits & Programs We Offer:  

  • Referral bonus program  
  • Tuition reimbursement  
  • FSA Medical plan option with annual company contribution  
  • Perks at Work - discounts on shopping, travel & more  
  • Proven continued business growth for future opportunities

Position Overview

The Process Engineer leads process design, validation, and improvement initiatives in an aseptic manufacturing environment. This role develops process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, SOPs, and batch instructions, evaluates equipment and production capability, and supports plant operations, troubleshooting, and cost-reduction projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and P&IDs for pilot and commercial aseptic food production lines
  • Create and manage project plans, schedules, and technical documentation
  • Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)
  • Write and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and batch records
  • Lead equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) and process validation programs
  • Establish operating parameters and acceptable process ranges
  • Evaluate manufacturing system capability for new and existing products
  • Support new product development and customer product trials
  • Troubleshoot processing and production performance issues
  • Drive continuous improvement and yield optimization initiatives
  • Collaborate with Quality, Production, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams
  • Identify and implement cost-savings projects, new technologies, and equipment upgrades
  • Develop ROI justifications and technical proposals for capital projects
  • Assist in training operators and maintenance teams on equipment operation, sanitation, and maintenance
  • Support pilot plant operations and scale-up from pilot to commercial production  

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in food engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
  • 5+ years of food processing or food manufacturing experience
  • Experience scaling processes from pilot plant to commercial production
  • Working knowledge of aseptic processing and sanitary design principles
  • Ability to create PFDs and P&IDs using CAD software
  • Experience with PLC and HMI automation systems
  • Knowledge of equipment sizing and specification for food processing equipment
  • Experience writing technical documentation, operating instructions, and project proposals
  • Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills
  • Advanced computer skills (Microsoft Office, spreadsheets, and CAD tools)
  • Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills
  • Ability to work cross-functionally with operations and customers
  • Desire to learn and support continuous improvement initiatives

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