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Junior Process Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Metalsa

Engineer Co-Op

Hopkinsville, KY

Gain hands-on experience in process engineering by supporting machining and assembly operations ... Must be in junior year or earlier with at least one year remaining before graduation. Students must ...

Metalsa

Engineer Co-Op

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

Gain hands-on experience in process engineering by supporting machining and assembly operations ... Must be in junior year or earlier with at least one year remaining before graduation. Students must ...

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All JobsProcess Engineer JobsJunior Process Engineer JobsJunior Process Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Junior Process Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$29.1K

$62.4K

$95.1K

How much do junior process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior process engineer in Kentucky is $62,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $69,500.00 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 Kentucky? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky? For Junior Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
Junior Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Process Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,360 per year, or $30 per hour.

Senior Process Engineer

Razorjack Recruiting/RG Resources

Henderson, KY

$93K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Senior Process Engineer to play a critical role in advancing our manufacturing operations through process optimization, automation, and capital project leadership.  This position is ideal for a hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys driving meaningful improvements in safety, efficiency, and reliability.
In this role, you will lead key initiatives that directly impact production performance and long-term operational success.  You’ll partner closely with cross-functional teams and have the opportunity to influence both day-to-day operations and future-state capabilities.
What You’ll Do
Process Improvement & Optimization
  • Lead process design, scale-up, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Optimize production for yield, throughput, quality, and cost efficiency
  • Troubleshoot complex process and equipment challenges
  • Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
Automation & Controls
  • Design and enhance automated process control systems
  • Work with PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar)
  • Support and improve SCADA and real-time monitoring systems
  • Collaborate on automation upgrades and Industry 4.0 initiatives
Capital Projects
  • Lead capital projects from concept through commissioning
  • Develop equipment specifications and support vendor selection
  • Oversee installation, startup, and validation activities
  • Manage contractors and ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget
Financial & Strategic Impact
  • Develop capital justifications including ROI and payback analysis
  • Manage CAPEX budgets and track project performance
  • Provide clear reporting and ensure responsible investment decisions
Leadership & Collaboration
  • Partner with Operations, Maintenance, EHS, and IT teams
  • Mentor junior engineers and technical staff
  • Drive continuous improvement across processes and systems
What You Bring
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering
  • 7+ years of experience in a manufacturing or chemical environment
  • Proven experience leading capital projects
  • Hands-on experience with PLCs, automation, and process control systems
Technical Strengths
  • Strong understanding of process control and instrumentation
  • Experience with industrial automation, SCADA, and HMI systems
  • Familiarity with industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profibus)
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
Nice to Have
  • Experience in specialty chemicals, polymers, or batch processing
  • Exposure to ERP systems (e.g., D365)
  • Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certification
  • PE license
Why This Role Matters
This is a high-impact position that plays a key role in shaping the future of our operations. You will have direct influence on safety, productivity, and capital investments, while helping build scalable systems that support continued growth
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About Razorjack Recruiting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We have purposely remained exclusive to a small group of companies and the industries that they serve. We have almost no limitation as to the organizations from which we can recruit – a very exciting prospect. We have a large number of contacts in multiple industries and disciplines and we are uniquely positioned to have individuals pre-identified for strategic positions. This creates enormous advantages. Speed of search is the critical component. We’ve spent a great deal of time studying our search process and re-engineered every aspect of every stage. Time is critical and we optimize each step. We are now completing searches within 2 to 3 weeks consistently, where it used to take 4 to 8. The process requires joint commitment and collaboration to work within this timeframe and there can be unforeseen obstacles that cause delay. It is an aggressive approach that, even if delayed, reduces the search time by weeks. Our search assignments cover the full spectrum of leadership positions and major disciplines.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Atchison, KS, US

Year founded

2000

Social media

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