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Food Processing Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

AgCertain Industries

Senior Process Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$101K - $131K/yr

Ames, IA 50010 The Senior Process Engineer is responsible for providing operational leadership to ... Prior experience in a biodiesel, ethanol, food processing plant or manufacturing facility preferred

Michael Foods Inc.

Project Engineer

Britt, IA

Business Unit Overview Michael Foods, Inc. is a leader in the food processing and distribution ... This position plans, schedules, conducts, and coordinates assigned engineering work; monitors work ...

Post Holdings, Inc.

Project Engineer

Britt, IA · On-site

Business Unit Overview Michael Foods, Inc. is a leader in the food processing and distribution ... This position plans, schedules, conducts, and coordinates assigned engineering work; monitors work ...

Michael Foods Inc.

Project Engineer

Britt, IA · On-site

Business Unit Overview Michael Foods, Inc. is a leader in the food processing and distribution ... This position plans, schedules, conducts, and coordinates assigned engineering work; monitors work ...

AgCertain

Senior Progess Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer is responsible for providing operational leadership to ensure ... experience in a biodiesel, ethanol, food processing plant or manufacturing facility ...

Ingredion Incorporated

Process Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$84K - $112K/yr

Without even realizing it, you've experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet's food ... Job Title Process Engineer - Utilities Location Cedar Rapids, IA Reports To Lead Process Engineer ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Understanding of food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements * Experience supporting capital ... oil processing facilities. * Knowledge of seed preparation, extraction, distillation, refining ...

Australia-Employment

Process Engineer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

... processing systems, process equipment, piping, instrumentation, and automated controls to produce ... environment such as food & beverage, chemicals, specialty ingredients, biofuels/ethanol ...

New

Ingredion

Process Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$84K - $112K/yr

Without even realizing it, you've experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet's food ... TITLE: Process Engineer - UtilitiesLOCATION: Cedar Rapids, IAREPORTS TO: Lead Process ...

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All JobsFood Processing Engineer JobsFood Processing Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Food Processing Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$56.4K

$82.4K

$110.8K

How much do food processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for food processing engineer in Iowa is $82,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those in supervisory roles can earn over $100,000 annually.

How to become a food processing engineer?

To become a food processing engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in food engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships and developing skills in process design, food safety, and automation are important; professional certifications can also enhance career prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Food Processing Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Food Processing Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Processing Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Processing Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

Food Processing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Processing Engineer job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,410 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Mechanical Drafter (Protein Processing Equipment)

Algona, IA • On-site

Cozzini LLC
Machinery Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Cozzini LLCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description:

Cozzini, a Middleby company, is a global leader in high-performance food processing equipment, serving the protein and pet food industries worldwide. Headquartered in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, with a major manufacturing facility in Algona, Iowa, Cozzini is deeply committed to innovation, engineering quality, and internal employee growth. We offer rewarding career opportunities in a highly collaborative, fast-paced manufacturing environment.

About the Role

We are seeking a precise, detail-oriented Mechanical Drafter to join our Engineering team in Algona, Iowa. Reporting directly to the Director of Equipment Manufacturing, you will provide critical engineering support to our production operations by creating, maintaining, and controlling technical drawings and project documentation.

If you have strong 2D/3D drafting skills, a keen eye for manufacturing details, and want to see your designs transition seamlessly from software to the production floor, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

  • Technical Drafting & Design Support:
    • Utilize AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor to create, modify, and maintain detailed technical drawings for machining and welding departments.
    • Process engineering change notices (ECNs) efficiently, updating existing drawings to maintain production accuracy.
  • Manufacturing Documentation & Data Management:
    • Process critical manufacturing drawings, including plot files and production work orders.
    • Assign and enter new part numbers into the MRP system, establishing clear product structures and accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs).
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration:
    • Partner closely with engineering and shop floor production teams to smoothly implement documentation updates and real-time project changes.

To Apply

Ready to advance your engineering career with an industry leader? Submit your most recent resume today to connect with our team!


Benefits:

  • Medical insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with company contribution
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Company-paid disability insurance
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • 401(k) retirement plan

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.
Principals only, please no third parties.

Requirements:
  • Associate degree or certification in Mechanical Drafting, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor
  • Strong understanding of ANSI dimensioning and geometric detailing practices preferred
  • Knowledge of machining, welding, and quality control practices is a plus
  • Experience in food processing equipment manufacturing is a plus