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Food Processing Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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.

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 ...

Process and System Engineer III

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$109K - $126K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... food processing systems in Santa Rosa, California, for more than 35 years. If you love food ... Position Overview As a Project and System Engineer III, you will serve as a technical lead on major ...

Process and System Engineer III

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$109K - $126K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... food processing systems in Santa Rosa, California, for more than 35 years. If you love food ... Position Overview As a Project and System Engineer III, you will serve as a technical lead on major ...

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$78K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Controls Engineer

Lathrop, CA

$110K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Controls Engineer Reports To: Engineering Manager Salary Range: 110K - 130K Why join our team ... Understanding of food processing/packaging operations, FDA regulations, and NFPA 70/70E/78 ...

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 ...

... process engineering, or similar discipline · Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and procedures, (GMP's, SSOP's, HACCP, SQF, all ...

Food Quality Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

... process engineering, or similar discipline · Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and procedures, (GMP's, SSOP's, HACCP, SQF, all ...

Food Quality Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

... process engineering, or similar discipline · Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and procedures, (GMP's, SSOP's, HACCP, SQF, all ...

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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 Aug 14, 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.

How much do food processing engineers make?

Food processing engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those in managerial roles can earn over $100,000 annually.

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 August 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

Saige Partners

Lathrop, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Process Engineer

The Process Engineer is responsible for designing, validating, and optimizing manufacturing processes in an aseptic food production environment. This role supports pilot and commercial production by developing process documentation, improving operational efficiency, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, and leading equipment qualification and process validation activities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and optimize aseptic manufacturing processes, including PFDs, P&IDs, SOPs, and batch records.
  • Lead equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), process validation, and scale-up from pilot to commercial production.
  • Support production through troubleshooting, process improvements, and yield optimization.
  • Ensure compliance with GMP, FSMA, and sanitary design requirements.
  • Evaluate equipment, manufacturing capability, and implement cost-saving and capital improvement projects.
  • Collaborate with Quality, Production, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and customers on new product development and operational improvements.
  • Train operators and maintenance personnel on equipment operation and sanitation.

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.
  • Experience with process scale-up, equipment qualification, PFDs/P&IDs, CAD software, PLC/HMI systems, and food processing equipment.
  • Strong technical writing, troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.