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Lead Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

BioMADE

Process Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Working closely with the Projects Lead, Operations Manager, Shift Supervisors, and Technical Laboratory Manager, the Process Engineer serves as the primary technical interface between customers and ...

Applied Materials

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

May lead functional teams or projects. Key Responsibilities * Design, collect data, analyze and compile reports on a wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products ...

Applied Materials

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

May lead functional teams or projects. Key Responsibilities Design, collect data, analyze and compile reports on a wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products, within ...

Piper Maddox

Process Engineer

Calipatria, CA · On-site

Process Engineer - Calipatria CA Piper Maddox is partnering with an exciting biotechnology energy ... Lead hands-on downstream processing operations, including dewatering, centrifugation, filtration ...

Amat

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

May lead functional teams or projects. Key Responsibilities * Design, collect data, analyze and compile reports on a wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products ...

Applied Materials, Inc.

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147 - $203/hr

As a Process Engineer As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing ... Lead functional teams or projects, as needed Minimum Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in a ...

Applied Materials

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Lead dry etch applications Design, collect data, analyze, and compile reports on a wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products Utilize techniques, define methods, and ...

Amat

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Lead dry etch applications * Design, collect data, analyze, and compile reports on a wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products * Utilize techniques, define methods ...

Applied Materials

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Lead dry etch applications * Design, collect data, analyze, and compile reports on a wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products * Utilize techniques, define methods ...

Avantor, Inc.

Process Engineer

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

The Process Engineer III implements process improvements to meet quality standards, performs ... Lead RCA (Root Cause Analysis) and performs PFMEA's of processes to identify root cause and ...

Amat

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Lead functional teams or projects, as needed Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in a ...

Amat

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ... Lead functional teams or projects, as needed Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in a ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsLead Process Engineer JobsLead Process Engineer Jobs in California

Lead Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$21.7K

$118.5K

$167.8K

How much do lead process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead process engineer in California is $118,528.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,100.00 and $132,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead process engineer do?

A Lead Process Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, optimization, and management of industrial processes within a manufacturing or production facility. They lead teams of engineers and technicians, ensuring that processes run efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively while meeting quality and regulatory standards. Their duties often include process improvement, troubleshooting, project management, and collaborating with other departments to support operational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead process engineer?

To thrive as a Lead Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical or process engineering, experience with process design and optimization, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or CHEMCAD), project management tools, and industry certifications like PE or Six Sigma is highly valuable. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and collaborating across departments. These competencies ensure efficient process operations, high safety standards, and successful project delivery in complex industrial environments.

How does a lead process engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Lead Process Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams is a key part of the role. You’ll work closely with project managers, mechanical and electrical engineers, safety specialists, and operations staff to ensure process designs meet project goals, safety regulations, and operational requirements. This often involves leading technical meetings, integrating feedback, and aligning process improvements with broader business objectives. Effective communication and stakeholder management are essential, as you’ll serve as the main point of contact between engineering and other departments throughout a project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Lead Process Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectLead Process EngineerProcess Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees process design, optimization, and team coordinationDevelops and implements process improvements under supervision
QualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience in process design, leadership skillsBachelor's degree in engineering, technical knowledge, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentProject teams, manufacturing plants, engineering departmentsManufacturing facilities, engineering teams, project sites

In summary, the Lead Process Engineer typically has more leadership responsibilities, overseeing projects and teams, while the Process Engineer focuses on executing process improvements and technical tasks. Both roles require engineering credentials and industry experience, but the Lead Process Engineer often requires additional leadership skills and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Process Engineer jobs in California?

For Lead Process Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Process Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Process Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lead Process Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lead Process Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Process Engineer jobs in CA?

For Lead Process Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Lead Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Process Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,528 per year, or $57 per hour.

Process Engineer

BioMADE

Hayward, CA • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Translate client fermentation and downstream process requirements into operational procedures, batch documentation, and technical guidance.

  • Support planning, assessment, and execution of laboratory trials to demonstrate process viability and identify gaps prior to pilot scale.

  • Serve as the primary technical expert for process unit operations, providing training, troubleshooting support, and developing standard operating procedures.

Job description

Process Engineer
Application Deadline: 25 September 2026
Department: Network Planning and Operational Structure
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Hayward, CA
Reporting To: Operations Manager
Compensation: $120,000 - $150,000 / year
Description
The Process Engineer will be part of BioMADE's Hayward pilot plant operations team. This pilot plant will help bridge a gap in the domestic biotech industry (non-pharma), providing clients with emerging fermentation technologies the ability to demonstrate upstream and downstream processes at a scale which supports future commercial scale design. The Process Engineer is responsible for translating customer fermentation and downstream process requirements into operational procedures, batch documentation, and technical guidance that enable the Operations team to successfully execute production campaigns.
Working closely with the Projects Lead, Operations Manager, Shift Supervisors, and Technical Laboratory Manager, the Process Engineer serves as the primary technical interface between customers and production facility operations during process technology transfer, campaign preparation, production execution, and post-production technology transfer closure.
The role requires strong knowledge of fermentation processes and downstream processing unit operations, with particular emphasis on downstream separations and purification systems. The Process Engineer will actively promote and exemplify a "zero harm" safety culture.
Key Responsibilities
Note: This position is offered at two levels: Process Engineer or Sr. Process Engineer, allowing candidates to apply based on their experience and qualifications. The total compensation range for this position is $120,000 - $150,000. Many factors are taken into consideration when determining compensation, such as possessing the Required Qualifications, Preferred Qualifications, level of education and experience, with consideration given to internal equity.
Technology Transfer and Process Implementation
  • Work with Projects Lead to translate client technology transfer packages into executable production processes.
  • Understand, communicate, and convert client process expectations into: batch records, batch recipes, operating procedures, process control parameters, process flow summaries, and operational guidance including operator training documents
  • Ensure process documentation and training positions the Operations team to execute production campaigns safely and effectively.
  • At the conclusion of client campaigns, prepare process summary reports and data packages for client representatives to include items such as: fermentation performance (titer, rate, yield) against expectations, downstream unit operation performance (to include yields), analytical results. Process deviations should be summarized for the client.

Bench-Scale Trials and Process Validation
  • With the Technical Lab Manager, support planning and assessment of laboratory trials as required using bench-scale fermentation and downstream equipment to:
  • Demonstrate the viability of client technology transfer packages
  • Identify and close potential gaps prior to running the process at pilot scale.
  • This may include generating data related to: fermentation performance, downstream separation performance, product recovery yields

Operations Support
  • Serve as primary technical expert for process unit operations, training shift supervisors and operations team on fundamental principles of operation, modes of operation, programming sequences, equipment safeguards, alarms (purpose and response), and troubleshooting.
  • At the direction of the Operations Manager, prepare standard operating procedures, troubleshooting guides, and other reference documents that provide a foundation for consistent operation and understanding.
  • Collaborate with shift supervisors and process operators to address process observations, concerns, and recommendations. Use these to develop and execute action plans.
  • Foster an environment of open communication and continuous improvement.
  • Utilize plant process data as well as in process analytical data to create dash boards and metrics that the Operations Manager deems to provide value for team performance.
  • Work with Operations Manager and Maintenance Manager to provide troubleshooting support for fermentation and downstream equipment, recommending corrective action and improvements as needed.
  • May provide hands-on operational support during critical campaigns, startup activities, commissioning efforts, or periods of limited staffing.

Safety Leadership
  • Actively support the facility's "zero harm" safety culture by:
  • Leading by example
  • Ensuring process procedures include safety considerations
  • Work with the team to identify and address potential hazards in fermentation and downstream operations
  • Engaging plant personnel in proactive safety discussions

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields: Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, or other related discipline.
  • 5 years experience as process engineer in fermentation or bioprocess development or manufacturing environments.
  • Experience in technology transfer, scale-up methodologies, process development, or production support (commercial or CDMO scale)
  • Sound knowledge of Fermentation fundamentals and downstream separation technologies
  • Experience in Data analysis systems, process monitoring, and process troubleshooting acumen
  • Strong safety mindset with demonstrated commitment to safe work practices
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to operations, laboratory, maintenance personnel, and customers/clients. Ability to translate complex processes into operational procedures and guidelines.
  • Comfortability to lead Client interactions and project coordination.

Preferred
  • Master's degree in one of the following fields: Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, or other related discipline.
  • 8 or more years experience as process engineer in fermentation or bioprocess development or manufacturing environments.
  • Downstream expertise preferred with unit operations such as: centrifuges (disc stack, decanter), ultrafiltration, microfiltration, ion exchange, evaporators, spray dryers, and homogenizers.
  • Prior experience within CDMO environment (preferably with food-safe quality standards), bench-to-pilot scale up, pilot-to-commercial scale up.
  • Experience writing and modifying fermentation scripts and recipes utilizing a variety of programming methodologies and languages
  • Experience with Factory Talk and/or Ignition automation and programming environments

  • Employment in this role is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screening, conducted following a conditional offer of employment and in accordance with applicable federal and state law. Our full testing policy will be provided prior to screening.

Job Benefits
BioMADE provides a comprehensive suite of health insurances, supplemental benefits, and paid time off to all regular full-time employees as outlined below. Additional benefits include:
100% employer-paid options for medical, dental, and vision
  • Paid time off that accrues from your hire date
  • 13 paid holidays, including a winter closure between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day
  • Hybrid work policy for most positions; stipend for internet and personal phone use
  • 401(k) retirement plan with up to 6% match on compensation (no vesting period!)
    Discretionary Incentive Plan based on organizational and individual performance
  • 100% employer-paid short-term disability and life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • Section 125 Flexible Spending Plan for medical and dependent care
  • Commuter pre-tax benefit
  • Full access to LinkedIn Learning's suite for professional development
  • Free parking, casual dress code, free snacks and beverages, and on-site gym access at both offices
  • Fun on and off-site employee activities sponsored by the Employee Engagement Committee
  • And much more

We nurture merit, talent, and achievement by supporting equal opportunity and welcome people of all backgrounds and beliefs to join us in our mission to enable domestic bioindustrial manufacturing at all scales. Come join our team!

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