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Pharmaceutical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer

Montrose, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

As a Project Engineer specializing in Pharmaceutical Engineering within the manufacturing sector, you will play a critical role in supporting the design, development, and commissioning of ...

Process Engineer

Lebanon, OH ยท On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

This is a great chance to continue your career as a Process Engineer and have a true impact on ... Knowledge of pharmaceutical process and equipment validations.

Senior Process Engineer

Bend, OR ยท On-site

$109K - $141K/yr

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in pharmaceutical process design, OSD ... Lead process engineering activities for pharmaceutical and API manufacturing projects. * Review ...

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Pharmaceutical Engineer information

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How much do pharmaceutical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharmaceutical engineer in the United States is $38.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.54 and $40.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Pharmaceutical Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical or biomedical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, and process development, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) regulations, process simulation software, and quality assurance systems is essential. Exceptional problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help you excel in cross-functional environments. These skills ensure safe, efficient drug production and regulatory compliance, which are vital for patient safety and business success.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior pharmaceutical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in drug development or manufacturing can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. High-level engineering roles in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries often require leadership responsibilities and expertise in regulatory compliance and process optimization.

What can I do with a pharmaceutical engineering degree?

A pharmaceutical engineer can work in drug development, manufacturing, quality control, and regulatory compliance within the pharmaceutical industry. They design and optimize processes for producing medications, often using skills in chemistry, engineering, and computer-aided design, and may need certifications such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

What is the difference between Pharmaceutical Engineer vs Chemical Engineer?

AspectPharmaceutical EngineerChemical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Pharmaceutical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field; often requires industry-specific certificationsBachelor's in Chemical Engineering; professional engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentPharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, labs, quality controlChemical plants, refineries, research labs
Industry UsagePrimarily in pharmaceutical and biotech industriesBroader industries including chemicals, energy, and materials
Job FocusDesigning and optimizing drug manufacturing processes, ensuring compliance with regulationsDesigning chemical processes, scaling up production, safety analysis

While both roles require a background in chemical processes, Pharmaceutical Engineers focus specifically on drug manufacturing and regulatory compliance within the pharmaceutical industry. Chemical Engineers have a broader scope, working across various chemical production sectors. The choice depends on your industry interest and specialization goals.

How do pharmaceutical engineers typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during drug development projects?

Pharmaceutical engineers work closely with scientists, quality assurance specialists, regulatory teams, and manufacturing staff throughout the drug development process. They play a key role in translating laboratory-scale processes into safe, efficient, and scalable manufacturing solutions. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as engineers must ensure that all technical, safety, and compliance requirements are met while balancing project timelines and budgets. This collaborative environment offers valuable opportunities to broaden your expertise and develop leadership skills, especially as you take on more responsibility in project management or process optimization roles.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior pharmaceutical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in process development or regulatory affairs can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in leadership roles or high-cost regions. Other engineering roles in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or software engineering also reach this level with significant experience and responsibilities.

What Do Pharmaceutical Engineers Do?

Pharmaceutical engineers design and manufacture pharmaceutical products. As a pharmaceutical engineer, the focus of your work may be on chemical research, manufacturing design, field testing, quality assurance, packaging and labeling, product delivery, or regulations compliance. Your job duties include collaborating with other engineers and manufacturing personnel, and ensuring all procedures follow Good Manufacturing Practice Regulations established by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). You need extensive science experience, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well with a team.

What does a Pharmaceutical Engineer do?

A Pharmaceutical Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes processes for manufacturing medications and vaccines, ensuring they meet quality and safety standards. They work with equipment, materials, and regulatory requirements, often using tools like process simulation software and adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
What cities are hiring for Pharmaceutical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Pharmaceutical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pharmaceutical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Pharmaceutical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Pharmaceutical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Pharmaceutical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Pharmaceutical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,999 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Pharmaceutical Engineer

Pharmaceutical Engineer

Visium Resources, Inc.

Thousand Oaks, CA โ€ข On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Sr. Job ID: #11783

Introduction
Visium Resources has been asked to identify qualified candidates for this Pharmaceutical Senior CQV Engineer position. This position is a direct hire which is expected to be on-site in Thousands Oaks, CA.


Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior CQV Engineer to support commissioning, qualification, and validation activities for pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturing facilities. The successful candidate will lead and execute CQV deliverables associated with GMP-regulated process equipment, utilities, automation systems, cleanrooms, and manufacturing operations.

This role requires hands-on technical expertise, strong project coordination skills, and a thorough understanding of FDA and cGMP compliance requirements. The Senior CQV Engineer will work cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Automation, and external vendors to ensure successful project execution and operational readiness within fast-paced life sciences environments.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and execute CQV activities for pharmaceutical and biotech capital projects.
  • Develop and execute:
    • Commissioning plans
    • IQ/OQ/PQ protocols
    • Validation test scripts
    • Traceability matrices
    • Summary reports
  • Support startup and qualification of:
    • Process equipment
    • Clean utilities
    • HVAC systems
    • Manufacturing suites
    • Automation and control systems
  • Coordinate field execution activities with engineering, construction, vendors, and operations teams.
  • Perform system walkdowns and turnover package reviews.
  • Support deviation investigations, CAPAs, and change control activities.
  • Ensure all validation documentation complies with cGMP, FDA, ISPE, and GAMP guidelines.
  • Participate in FAT/SAT execution and acceptance activities.
  • Support project schedule development and milestone tracking.
  • Collaborate with Quality Assurance and Manufacturing teams to support inspection readiness and successful system release.
  • Mentor junior CQV engineers and validation specialists as needed.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or related technical discipline.
  • 5-10+ years of CQV, validation, or pharmaceutical engineering experience within GMP-regulated environments.
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • cGMP regulations
    • FDA validation requirements
    • ISPE Baseline Guides
    • GAMP 5 principles
  • Experience executing commissioning and qualification for:
    • Process equipment
    • Utilities
    • HVAC systems
    • Cleanrooms
    • Automation systems
  • Experience authoring and reviewing validation lifecycle documentation.
  • Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
  • Ability to work independently within fast-paced project environments.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in biologics, sterile manufacturing, fill-finish, or aseptic processing environments.
  • Previous consulting experience within life sciences industries preferred.
  • Familiarity with:
    • DeltaV
    • MES systems
    • SCADA platforms
    • Kneat or electronic validation systems
  • PMP certification or equivalent project leadership experience is a plus.
  • Strong client-facing communication and leadership skills.

Additional Skills & Competencies

  • Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
  • Comfortable working in both office and field environments
  • Ability to travel to client sites as required

Company Description

Visium Resources is an award-winning employment firm with a mission to match talented individuals with highly successful organizations. At Visium, our companyโ€™s success is based on your success. When you work with us, you are never โ€œjust a numberโ€. You are our most important asset. Here, you will know us by name through our regular visits to client sites and even occasional luncheons. We will always be there when you need assistance and will always go the extra mile to ensure that you are as successful as possible. Whether you're looking for contract, contract-to-hire or permanent opportunities, we firmly believe there is no employment agency that will work harder for you than Visium. Visium Resources is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit and business need.