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Food Processing Engineer Jobs (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 ...

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Process Design Engineer

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

... food processing, grain processing, or another continuous process manufacturing environment. * Experience developing PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, and engineering design documentation.

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, or a related scientific field. * Experience * 3-10+ years of experience in food manufacturing, food processing ...

Sr Process Engineer

Zeeland, MI ยท On-site

$95K - $143K/yr

Or, BA with minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in food processing engineering in lieu of a B.S. in Engineering. * Experience in CIP, Liquid Milk Processing, Spray Drying, Blending, Powder ...

Sr Process Engineer

Zeeland, MI ยท On-site

$95K - $143K/yr

Or, BA with minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in food processing engineering in lieu of a B.S. in Engineering. * Experience in CIP, Liquid Milk Processing, Spray Drying, Blending, Powder ...

Senior Process Engineer

Hershey, PA ยท On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

Minimum 4 years of experience in Food Processing, Confectionery, Pharmaceutical or related industries * Process engineering, process design and project management experience, including process ...

Senior Process Engineer

Hershey, PA

$98K - $127K/yr

Minimum 4 years of experience in Food Processing, Confectionery, Pharmaceutical or related industries * Process engineering, process design and project management experience, including process ...

Senior Process Engineer

Beloit, WI

$101K - $131K/yr

Engineering Job Family: Manufacturing Engineering We're growing our Engineering team and looking ... Experience in Fluid related processing or equivalent. FDA, USDA, regulated food and beverage ...

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Food Processing Engineer information

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$60K

$87.7K

$118K

How much do food processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for food processing engineer in the United States is $87,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $106,500.00 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.

More about Food Processing Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Processing Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Food Processing Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Food Processing Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Processing Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Processing Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,739 per year, or $42.2 per hour.
Design Engineer - Protein Processing

Design Engineer - Protein Processing

Cozzini LLC

Elk Grove Village, IL โ€ข On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled, detail-oriented Design Engineer to support the design, development, and execution of our food processing equipment projects. In this role, you will bridge the gap between initial concept and final production-coordinating design activities while ensuring all projects meet strict technical, manufacturing, and customer requirements.
If you have a strong background in machine design, excellent CAD capabilities, and love seeing your designs come to life on the shop floor, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design & Development: Utilize CAD and drafting software to create, refine, and maintain detailed engineering drawings and machine designs. Create rough layouts and calculate critical specifications (dimensions, angles, surface areas, tolerances, and clearances).
  • Production & Fabrication Support: Provide direct engineering support to our fabrication and assembly departments. Measure machines and components during production to ensure 100% compliance with engineering drawings.
  • Project Coordination: Manage engineering activities related to project scheduling, design reviews, testing, and problem resolution. Monitor project-related expenditures to stay within budget guidelines.
  • Analysis & Verification: Analyze engineering sketches, specifications, and technical data to determine design requirements. Evaluate and approve design changes, drawing revisions, and specification updates.
  • Documentation: Prepare comprehensive project status updates, interim reports, and final project documentation.
  • Collaboration & Travel: Partner closely with internal departments, customers, and vendors throughout the project lifecycle. Travel periodically to customer and vendor locations to support project coordination and implementation.
Qualifications & Skills
  • Experience: Proven experience in machine design, mechanical design, or a closely related engineering role (experience with food processing or sanitary equipment is a major plus).
  • Technical Skills: Strong CAD proficiency (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, or AutoCAD) and a deep understanding of manufacturing tolerances, layouts, and component arrangement.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze complex technical data and resolve engineering challenges on the fly.
  • Communication: Exceptional collaboration skills to work effectively with shop floor fabricators, cross-functional internal teams, vendors, and clients.
  • Adaptability: Thrives in a fast-paced environment and is comfortable splitting time between the desk and the manufacturing floor.
  • Travel: Willingness to travel periodically as required by project needs.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
  • A dynamic, team-oriented work environment.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and hands-on project ownership.

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.
Benefits:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insuranc
  • Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with employer contribution
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Company-Paid Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 401(k) Plan

Principals only, please no third parties
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
  • 3-5 years of experience in machine design engineering or related engineering roles
  • Experience working with sheet metal, machined parts, cast components, welding, and dimensional/geometric tolerancing
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor
  • Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and manufacturing processes
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Strong communication and collaboration abilities

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with FEA software and engineering analysis tools
  • Experience within food processing equipment or capital equipment manufacturing environments

NO RELOCATION PROVIDED
Salary Description
75-95k plus bonus