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Food Processing Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cuisine Solutions

Senior Process Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Maintenance / Engineering Reports To: This position typically reports to the President of ... in food manufacturing, refrigerated foods, ready-to-eat foods, protein processing, sous vide ...

Cuisine Solutions

Senior Process Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Maintenance / Engineering Reports To: This position typically reports to the President of ... in food manufacturing, refrigerated foods, ready-to-eat foods, protein processing, sous vide ...

Cuisine Solutions

Senior Process Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Maintenance / Engineering Reports To: This position typically reports to the President of ... in food manufacturing, refrigerated foods, ready-to-eat foods, protein processing, sous vide ...

Cuisine Solutions Inc.

Senior Process Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Maintenance / Engineering Reports To: This position typically reports to the President of ... in food manufacturing, refrigerated foods, ready-to-eat foods, protein processing, sous vide ...

Westrock

Eng I, Process Eng

Covington, VA · On-site

$69K - $115K/yr

... food products), as well as commercial printing applications (greeting cards, lottery tickets, business cards, direct mail, large format signage, etc.). As an Entry-Level Process Engineer, you would ...

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Food Processing Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$59.5K

$87K

$117K

How much do food processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for food processing engineer in Virginia is $86,986.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $105,600.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

Food Processing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Processing Engineer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,986 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Project Engineer, Food Manufacturing

Newport News, VA • On-site

Ethos
See more jobs at Ethosexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Project Engineer, Food Manufacturing

The Project Engineer, Food Manufacturing will lead a small team on medium to large-scale projects or take charge of a critical portion of a more complex initiative; you'll play a pivotal role in driving success.

Position Responsibilities:

         Develop engineering designs, material specifications, and project cost estimates.

         Conduct feasibility studies and research to support design choices.

         Responsible for ensuring designs meet required standards and codes, validating field work and creating as-built drawings.

         Review engineering submissions for accuracy and compliance, coordinate project activities with vendors, contractors, and plant teams to stay on schedule and collaborate with management and engineering teams to implement plans.

         Direct vendors and contractors on layout planning and utility requirements.

         Manage project budgets to ensure financial targets are met.

Requirements

         Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, Engineering Management, or related field and 5+ years of experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

         Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.

         Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.

         Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.

         Must possess Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills. Previous experience in the management of multi-million-dollar projects with large scopes, desirable.

         Proficient in engineering economics.

         Proficient in AutoCAD.

         Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development

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