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Food Processing Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Michael Foods Inc.

Project Engineer

Norwalk, 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 ...

Kemin

Associate Scientist - Food Science

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Working alongside microbiologists, chemists and processing engineers, this individual will anchor the team with food science and industry expertise and help drive clean-label, affordable ingredient ...

Post Holdings, Inc.

Project Engineer

Britt, IA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

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 ...

Post Holdings, Inc.

Project Engineer

Norwalk, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Business Unit Overview Michael Foods, Inc. is a leader in the food processing and distribution ... Ensure effective engineering and client communications through thorough understanding of the supply ...

BSI Engineering LLC

Senior Process Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Senior Process Engineer Your Role at BSI Our Process Engineers are responsible for designing safe ... food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and consumer products. We design manufacturing process for ...

Conagra Brands

Process Engineer

Council Bluffs, IA

$64K - $95K/yr

... Finance, Engineering, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and other partners Lead capital project ... Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to ...

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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 Aug 23, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,410 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Mechanical Drafter (Protein Processing Equipment)

Cozzini LLC

Algona, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 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