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Junior Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Process Engineering role is responsible for solving moderately complex problems. This position ... Oversee and guide junior staff in process design and definition, including mass and energy balances ...

The Process Engineering role is responsible for solving moderately complex problems. This position ... Oversee and guide junior staff in process design and definition, including mass and energy balances ...

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer III

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Serve as a resource for junior colleagues; lead project teams, as needed Minimum Qualifications:

Process Engineer Level II

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$110K - $162K/yr

If required, assist, and support junior personnel within the process engineering team. * Communicate effectively with the process engineering team and project stakeholders, including the Customer.

Process Engineer V

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$163K - $224K/yr

... junior engineers and contribute to capability building within the applications group Required ... process development and/or semiconductor process integration - Strong expertise in DOE and ...

Process Engineer V

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$163K - $224K/yr

... junior engineers and contribute to capability building within the applications group Required ... process development and/or semiconductor process integration - Strong expertise in DOE and ...

The Process Engineer III is responsible for leading the design for a defined scope of a project ... Provides mentorship to junior discipline and design staff. * Leads project system design ...

The Process Engineer III is responsible for leading the design for a defined scope of a project ... Provides mentorship to junior discipline and design staff. * Leads project system design ...

The Process Engineer III is responsible for leading the design for a defined scope of a project ... Provides mentorship to junior discipline and design staff. * Leads project system design ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$70.9K

$108.1K

How much do junior process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior process engineer in California is $70,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Junior Process Engineer during their first year on the job?

As a Junior Process Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to complex manufacturing processes, learning to use specialized software, and understanding industry-specific regulations. It often takes time to become proficient in troubleshooting process issues and collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams like production, quality, and maintenance. With guidance from senior engineers and hands-on experience, you will gradually build confidence and technical expertise, which are key to advancing in this field.

What is the difference between Junior Process Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectJunior Process EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, process improvement projectsOperating, maintaining, troubleshooting manufacturing equipment
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, pharmaceutical industriesProduction plants, manufacturing facilities

Junior Process Engineers focus on process design and optimization, often requiring an engineering degree, while Process Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance with technical diplomas. Both roles are vital in manufacturing settings, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What does a Junior Process Engineer do?

A Junior Process Engineer assists in designing, implementing, and optimizing industrial processes within manufacturing or production environments. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze workflows, troubleshoot problems, and contribute to process improvements to increase efficiency, safety, and product quality. Tasks may include collecting and analyzing data, preparing process documentation, and supporting project teams with technical input. This role often serves as a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions, allowing individuals to gain hands-on experience and develop their technical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Process Engineer, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering along with solid analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or AutoCAD), data analysis tools, and basic knowledge of industry safety standards are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help junior engineers effectively collaborate and learn from senior colleagues. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient process optimization, compliance, and professional growth within engineering teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Process Engineer jobs in California? For Junior Process Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Process Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Process Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Junior Process Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Junior Process Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Process Engineer job openings in California 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 $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.
Solids Process Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Brown and Caldwell rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 442 rated engineering


Job description

Brown and Caldwell has an exciting opportunity for a Process Mechanical Engineer to help lead major projects and deliver exceptional service to our well-established wastewater/biosolids clients.  This position will be responsible for serving as an experienced resource on wastewater/biosolids planning and design projects and maintaining and enhancing relationships with existing clients. This is an excellent opportunity to join a nationally recognized and growing company that places high value on exceptional client service, good science and employee growth and satisfaction.  Biosolids is one of BC’s key service lines, with a national practice comprised of industry leading experts.

The Process Engineering role is responsible for solving moderately complex problems. This position involves critical decision making, based on limited guidelines and supervision, and exercising judgement and problem-solving capabilities.

Responsibilities
  • Lead the development of process models and perform advanced data analysis.
  • Lead chemical/physical/biological process evaluations, alternatives analyses, lifecycle cost analyses, and implementation of process optimizations.
  • Lead troubleshooting efforts of existing facilities, develop solutions for process issues.
  • Be responsible for the adhering to Quality Management Plan (QMP), decision, interim work, and deliverables for projects.
  • Oversee and guide junior staff in process design and definition, including mass and energy balances, process system requirements, equipment specifications, and preliminary design concepts.
  • Participate in technical innovation projects, including the implementation of new technologies and processes.
  • Lead the execution of experiments, evaluate technologies for implementation.
  • Lead physical/chemical/biological testing and analysis and data reporting.
  • Understand and deliver BC’s process related differentiating solutions.
  • Engage on pursuits, providing process related technical content for proposals and presentations.
  • As required, engage in process related risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
  • Contribute to regional conference presentations and/or publications, promoting BC’s brand.
  • Support the development and creation of continuing education and training, including on the latest technical advancements.
  • Actively mentor junior staff on development priorities and projects.
  • Support subject matter experts and practice leaders in ensuring BC Standards are accurate, up to date and complete.
  • Flexibility to adapt and execute various additional assignments based on evolving needs.
  • Support the solids and energy research and innovation activities under the direction of National Technology and Innovation Lead (NTIL)
Mentorship
  • May provide mentorship, guidance, support, and knowledge-sharing to help less experienced team members develop their skills and grow within their roles.
Skills and Competencies
  • Proficient in process modeling and data analysis skills, strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to perform physical, chemical, and biological process performance evaluations with high-level oversight.
  • Skilled at effectively conveying technical information to clients and internal stakeholders.
Experience
  • Typically, a minimum of 5 years related work experience in process engineering or related field.
  • Typically, certified in the SMS Framework and progressing through the SMS competencies.
Education
  • A bachelor's degree in environmental, civil, chemical, mechanical, or biological engineering degree or equivalent experience is required.
  • Licensure as a professional engineer is required.
Preferred Education
  • A master’s degree in civil, environmental, chemical, or mechanical engineering or related field or equivalent experience is preferred.

Salary Range: The anticipated starting pay range for this position is based on the employee’s primary work location and may be more or less depending upon skills, experience, and education.  These ranges may be modified in the future.  

Location B: $104,000 - $142,000

You can view which BC location applies to you here. If you have any questions, please speak with your Recruiter. 

Benefits and Other Compensation:  We provide a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee health, performance, and success which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time off and parental leave, paid holidays, 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match, performance-based bonus eligibility, employee referral bonuses, tuition reimbursement, pet insurance and long-term care insurance. Click here to see our full list of benefits. 

About Brown and Caldwell  

Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, Brown and Caldwell is a full-service environmental engineering and construction services firm with 50 offices and over 2,100 professionals across North America and the Pacific. For more than 75 years, we have created leading-edge environmental solutions for municipalities, private industry, and government agencies. We strive to be the company of choice—to our clients, who benefit from our passion for delivering exceptional quality, and to our employees, present and future, who share our commitment to client service, collaboration, and innovation. Join us, and you will find a home where you can do your best work, reach new levels of expertise, and enjoy exceptional development opportunities. For more information, visit www.brownandcaldwell.com 

This position is subject to a pre-employment background check and a pre-employment drug test.  

Notice to Third Party Agencies: Brown and Caldwell does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and approved engagement request with Brown and Caldwell, Brown and Caldwell reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency.   

Brown and Caldwell is proud to be an EEO/AAP Employer. Brown and Caldwell encourages protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, and applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Brown and Caldwell ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

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