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Food Processing Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

This role requires a deep understanding of food processing technologies, the design and delivery of ... The Process Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development ...

This role requires a deep understanding of food processing technologies, the design and delivery of ... The Process Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development ...

Senior Process Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$94K - $122K/yr

This role requires an understanding of food processing technologies, the design and delivery of ... The Process Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development ...

Ability to network with multiple business units/divisions of food processing plants, such as Research and Development, Engineering, Maintenance, Sanitation, and Procurement/Purchasing. * Share best ...

Development and design of wastewater systems for industrial food processing plants. * Perform ... The Process Wastewater Engineer is responsible for selecting wastewater equipment in the system ...

Develops solutions for the food processing and packaging equipment and equipment installations of complex food and beverage facilities. Works closely with customers, business developers, building ...

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Food Processing Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$44.8K

$65.6K

$88.2K

How much do food processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for food processing engineer in Florida is $65,566.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,100.00 and $79,600.00 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.

Infographic showing various Food Processing Engineer job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $65,566 per year, or $31.5 per hour.
Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Stellar

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

The Process Engineer is responsible for leading the design and implementation of solutions that meet the needs of our diverse food and beverage manufacturing operations. This role requires a deep understanding of food processing technologies, the design and delivery of production systems for food and beverage manufacturing facilities, with an emphasis on raw material storage, processing, thermal processing, mixing & blending, filling, and food safety compliance, as well as a commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The Process Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, marketing, engineering, architects, manufacturing, project management, and field staff to ensure that all process solutions are innovative, functional, and fully developed to include all requirements for successful operation.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Design processes to achieve project goals
    • Define processing steps required to make food or beverage products, handle waste or byproducts, and cleaning systems.
    • Calculate equipment rates, create optimal food plant layouts, and prepare block and/or process flow diagrams to ensure all flows are understood and included in the design.
  • Engineer process equipment & systems
    • Perform process calculations, size and select equipment & components; ensure designs comply with relevant codes, standards, & sanitary practices.
    • Develop P&ID's, equipment specifications, installation specifications, equipment lists, controls narratives for coordination, and coordinate 3D modeling with design.
    • Coordinate with 3rd parties for equipment engineered by others, with internal or external project team members for integration of the process into plant infrastructure.
  • Support procurement of equipment & installation packages
    • Assist in identifying suppliers & subcontractors, perform technical writing aspects in bid packages for scope definition, compile technical engineering documents for bid packages.
    • Participate in bid-scope reviews, assist in analyzing proposals, lead design reviews of drawings & models, attend coordination meetings, review submittals, participate in factory acceptance testing.
  • Support installation of process equipment
    • Review installation submittals and participate in subcontractor coordination meetings.
    • Travel to site for technical assistance, coordinate directly with Stellar field staff and subcontractors, identify and resolve issues that arise, review installations for correctness, and revise drawings for as-built conditions.
  • Startup & commissioning of process equipment
    • Assist in preparing comprehensive documentation of commissioning processes, test results, and system performance.
    • Assist in process system testing and commissioning activities, including functional testing, performance testing, and safety testing.
    • Coordinate with clients and stakeholders for system handover, providing necessary documentation and training for operational staff.
  • Maintain current knowledge of food manufacturing trends, regulatory requirements, and food industry-specific considerations.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Strong leadership and team collaboration skills.
  • Thorough understanding of the food industry, process systems, & plant operations.
  • Familiarity of startup and commissioning processes and procedures for process systems.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities, capable of identifying and resolving issues.
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, including interpersonal skills.
  • Innovative thinking and the ability to develop creative solutions.
  • Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
  • Knowledge and understanding of industry regulations, and standards including safety as relates to food or beverage manufacturing systems.
  • Flexibility to work in different environments and adapt to changing project requirements.
Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor of Science Engineering degree in Chemical, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or a related field.
  • Advanced degrees or certifications in continuous improvement methodologies are advantageous.
  • Minimum of 1-7 years of experience in food or beverage manufacturing systems. Relevant professional certifications are a plus.
  • Experience in calibration, startup and commissioning of food or beverage process systems is preferred.
  • Knowledge of Ingredients and their reactions to heating, cooling, mixing, blending, pumping.
  • Knowledge of Process Controls that support recipe management and product repeatability.
  • Knowledge of 3A, USDA, or FDA sanitation requirements and regulatory entities.
  • Skilled in relevant software; Microsoft Office Software, AutoCAD, Inventor, Revit, Procore, Bluebeam, Adobe, Power BI, and ACC is preferred.
  • Experience with process design and engineering in a design-build or EPC setting.
  • Exposure to sustainability-focused initiatives such as water reuse, energy recovery, or nutrient capture is a plus.
Travel Requirements:
  • Ability to travel regularly for site visits, attend project meetings, corporate training, and events.
  • Ability to travel internationally, obtain and maintain a valid passport.
  • Travel expected to be at least 20%.
  • Flexibility to travel on short notice for urgent business needs.
  • Comfortable with various modes of transportation, including flights, trains, and rental cars.
  • Ability to navigate and work effectively in diverse geographical locations and time zones.
  • Ability to adapt to different cultures and customs while traveling.
  • Maintain a professional demeanor and appearance during business trips.
  • Compliance with company travel policies and procedures.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to use a computer, phone, iPad, printer, scanner, and other office equipment.
  • Visual acuity for detailed work and computer use.
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 25 pounds of files, documents, and materials
  • Ability to sit, stand, and walk for long periods of time, ability to climb flights of stairs and ladders.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, and reach as necessary.
  • Manual dexterity for operating office equipment, measuring devices, quality & testing devices.
  • Ability to work around machinery during installation, startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting.
  • Capability to handle occasional exposure to extreme heat, extreme cold, wet environments, and extreme odors.
About Stellar
Stellar offers a comprehensive package which includes:
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Paid Time Off - accrue 15 days (120 hours) within first year of service
  • Paid holidays
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
  • Tax-advantaged accounts (HSA, FSA, Dependent Care FSA)
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) - company match with immediate vesting

Stellar, headquartered in Jacksonville, FL, is a fully integrated firm focusing on design, construction, architecture, engineering, and mechanical services worldwide for over 30 years. Stellar combines a multitude of capabilities to create buildings and systems of exceptional long-term quality, value and efficiency. From food processing plants and healthcare facilities to refrigerated warehouses, automated production lines and beyond, we offer an integrated approach to meet all our clients' needs.
Stellar is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicants for employment based on their race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, uniformed servicemember status, or any other status protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.