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Food Processing Engineer Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong food manufacturing and processing expertise ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical ...

Process Engineer

Pennsauken, NJ · On-site

$31.10 - $44.70/hr

The Process Engineer operates all process equipment, automation controls, and production systems ... Experience in food processing or pharmaceuticals strongly preferred * Proficiency in Microsoft ...

Provide engineering support for improvement projects and troubleshooting for processing problems ... Bachelor's degree in Process, Chemical, Food or Mechanical Engineering * 5 + years' experience in ...

Provide engineering support for improvement projects and troubleshooting for processing problems ... Bachelor's degree in Process, Chemical, Food or Mechanical Engineering * 5 + years' experience in ...

... care and food industry. POSITION: You will be part of a cross-functional engineering team in the ... Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) * Process Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) * Process ...

Project Engineer

Vineland, NJ · On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Description The Project Engineer is responsible for leading and supporting capital projects across ... Strong knowledge of food processing equipment, packaging systems, utilities, and plant operations.

Sr. Project Engineer

Carlstadt, NJ · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The Senior Project Engineer owns capital project planning and execution for one or multiple sites ... Desired experience in food manufacturing, food processing technology, packaging, automation ...

Sr. Project Engineer

Carlstadt, NJ · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The Senior Project Engineer owns capital project planning and execution for one or multiple sites ... Desired experience in food manufacturing, food processing technology, packaging, automation ...

This position will report to our Manager, Product Development & Processing, Research and ... Report food safety and quality issues to Plant management and SQFP * Follow PIM Brands GMP rules

R&D Process Engineer

NJ · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This position will report to our Manager, Product Development & Processing, Research and ... Report food safety and quality issues to Plant management and SQFP * Follow PIM Brands GMP rules

... improve processing, layout, workflow, assets, assembly methods, and workforce usage to process ... S. Food and Drug Administration regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ISO 9001, ISO ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Hackensack, NJ

$87K - $116K/yr

From food production lines to custom process and water treatment equipment, you'll be working on ... engineering and client requirements · Create electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel ...

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Food Processing Engineer information

See New Jersey salary details

$60.9K

$89.1K

$119.8K

How much do food processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for food processing engineer in New Jersey is $89,075.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $108,100.00 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 New Jersey?

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

Infographic showing various Food Processing Engineer job openings in New Jersey as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,075 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Engineer Foods Processing

Unilever

Englewood Cliffs, NJ • On-site

$71K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Unilever rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

About the Role

We are looking for a highly motivated Process Development Specialist to join our R&D team. This role is critical to delivering new product innovations and supporting existing manufacturing operations through process development, optimization, and commercialization activities. The successful candidate will bridge product development and manufacturing, working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure successful scale-up, factory implementation, and continuous improvement.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong food manufacturing and processing expertise who enjoys combining hands-on factory work with technical problem-solving and innovation.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead process design, development, and optimization activities for innovation and renovation projects.
  • Drive process improvements to enhance product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and value delivery.
  • Plan, execute, and evaluate pilot plant trials, including analytical and sensory assessments.
  • Prepare formulations, support batching activities, and manage ingredients, inventory, and logistics for pilot plant operations.
  • Manage product sample inventory, shipping, storage, and disposal processes.
  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to conduct product evaluations, showings, and factory trials.
  • Analyze technical results and recommend data-driven next steps to support project objectives.
  • Lead specification creation and approval activities within SAP PLM for new ingredients, processes, and products.
  • Support third-party manufacturing launches and factory implementation activities.
  • Participate in factory feasibility assessments, capability studies, and initial production runs.
  • Identify opportunities to simplify ways of working and improve laboratory and pilot plant practices.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, GMP, GLP, SHE requirements, and relevant regulatory standards.
Required Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Experience in food manufacturing, process development, or process engineering within the FMCG, food, or consumer products industry.
  • Hands-on experience conducting pilot plant trials and supporting scale-up from development to commercial production.
  • Experience working within manufacturing environments and supporting factory operations.
  • Strong understanding of process optimization, quality improvement, and commercialization activities.
  • Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams including R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations.
Must-Have Skills
  • Food processing and manufacturing expertise.
  • Process development and optimization experience.
  • Pilot plant and factory trial execution.
Nice-to-Have Skills
  • SAP PLM specification management.
  • Sensory and analytical evaluation experience.
  • Knowledge of GMP, GLP, FDA, and food industry regulatory requirements.
Soft Skills
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking.
  • Excellent collaboration and stakeholder management skills.
  • Ownership mindset with the ability to work independently and proactively.
Why Join Us?

This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of innovation, manufacturing, and product commercialization, providing exposure to pilot plants, factory operations, cross-functional collaboration, and global product launches while making a direct impact on the future of our business.

Pay: The pay range for this position is $71,400 to $107,200. Unilever takes into consideration a wide range of factors that are utilized in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, qualifications and education, and other business and organizational needs.

Bonus: This position is bonus eligible.

Benefits: Unilever employees are eligible to participate in our benefits plan. Should the employee choose to participate, they can choose from a range of benefits to include, but is not limited to, health insurance (including prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage), retirement savings benefits, life insurance and disability benefits, parental leave, sick leave, paid vacation and holidays, as well as access to numerous voluntary benefits. Any coverages for health insurance and retirement benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

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At Unilever, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive/succeed. All applicants will receive fair and respectful consideration, and we actively support the growth and development of every employee.
Unilever is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities.
For more information on your federal rights, please seeKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

Employment is subject to verification of pre-screening tests, which may include drug screening, background check, credit check and DMV check.

If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance at any time during our recruitment process, please contact us atNA.Accommodations@unilever.com. Please note: This email is reserved for individuals with disabilities in need of assistance and is not a means of inquiry about positions or application statuses. The Protected Veterans or Individuals with Disabilities AAP narratives are available for inspection by any employee or applicant for employment Monday through Friday during normal business hours at establishment.


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