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Plant Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plant Design Lead Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

About the Opportunity Zap Energy is seeking a Plant Design Team Lead to support the Zap Micro Reactor (ZMR) program. In this role, you will lead an integrated product team to deliver a liquid metal ...

Plant Design Integration Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting Plant Design Integration Engineer opportunity. Job Responsibilities: * Collaborates with a geographically ...

The Principal Engineer - Plant Design will support the development and execution of combined cycle power projects in the Plant Design discipline. In this role, you will utilize individual technical ...

The Principal Engineer - Plant Design will support the development and execution of combined cycle power projects in the Plant Design discipline. In this role, you will utilize individual technical ...

Outside Plant CAD Drafter

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

As a Telecommunications Outside Plant Drafter, you will be responsible for performing telco loop design (fiber & copper) in various drafting systems (AutoCAD, MicroStation), posting of ...

Prepare design basis and engineering packages for pilot plant, demonstration plant, and commercial plant, which include PFDs, P&IDs, and process simulation modeling * Incorporate all elements ...

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Plant Design information

See salary details

$41.5K

$99.9K

$143K

How much do plant design jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant design in the United States is $99,873.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Plant Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, strong drafting abilities, and experience with process design principles, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), process simulation tools (like Aspen HYSYS), and familiarity with industry standards and safety regulations are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help professionals collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and adapt to project requirements. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and cost-effective plant layouts that meet operational and regulatory demands.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Plant Design and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Plant Design often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing changes during the project lifecycle. Effective communication with engineers, architects, and construction managers is essential to keep the project on track and avoid costly errors. Staying updated on industry standards and utilizing advanced design software can help address technical challenges, while proactive project management and regular stakeholder meetings support smooth collaboration and problem-solving.

What is plant design?

Plant design is the process of planning, designing, and arranging the physical layout and systems of industrial plants, such as manufacturing facilities, refineries, or power plants. It involves selecting equipment, determining workflows, ensuring safety and efficiency, and meeting regulatory requirements. Plant designers use engineering principles and specialized software to create blueprints and models that guide the construction and operation of the facility. The goal of plant design is to optimize production processes, minimize costs, and ensure safe working environments.

What is the difference between Plant Design vs Mechanical Drafting?

AspectPlant DesignMechanical Drafting
Primary FocusCreating detailed plant layouts, process flow diagrams, and equipment specificationsPreparing detailed technical drawings of mechanical components and assemblies
Required SkillsProcess engineering, CAD, knowledge of plant operationsTechnical drawing, CAD, understanding of mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentEngineering offices, plant sites, project planningDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, construction sites
CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsDrafting certifications, CAD proficiency

Plant Design involves developing comprehensive layouts and process flows for entire facilities, focusing on operational efficiency. Mechanical Drafting centers on creating detailed drawings of mechanical parts and assemblies. While both roles require CAD skills and technical knowledge, Plant Design emphasizes process and system integration, whereas Mechanical Drafting concentrates on precise component detailing.

More about Plant Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Plant Design jobs? Cities with the most Plant Design job openings:
What states have the most Plant Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Design jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plant Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $99,873 per year, or $48 per hour.

Plant Design Engineer

Insight Staffing Group

Richmond, VA

$125K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Design Engineer – Wash Plants, Crushers & Mining Equipment


Compensation Range: $130,000 – $145,000 (base salary)


Employment Type: Full‑Time, Exempt


Position Summary

A confidential operator in the aggregates and mining sector is seeking an experienced Design Engineer to support the design, modification, and integration of wash plants, crushing systems, screening circuits, and material handling equipment within active mining and aggregate operations.

This role focuses on practical, field‑driven engineering—developing solutions that improve plant throughput, reliability, safety, and maintainability. The Design Engineer works closely with operations, maintenance, and other engineering disciplines to deliver effective designs from concept through construction.


Key Responsibilities

  • Design and engineer wash plants, crushers, screens, conveyors, feeders, and associated mining equipment for new installations and plant upgrades
  • Integrate new equipment into existing operating aggregate and mining facilities, ensuring minimal disruption to production
  • Develop engineering scopes of work, layouts, design drawings, material lists, specifications, schedules, and cost estimates
  • Perform field measurements, site inspections, and operational assessments to support accurate and constructible designs
  • Produce detailed AutoCAD drawings for plant layouts, structural steel supports, chutes, platforms, and mechanical systems
  • Collaborate with mechanical, civil, structural, and electrical disciplines to deliver complete plant solutions
  • Act as a technical lead or project engineer on discipline-specific projects involving crushing or wash plant systems
  • Work directly with plant personnel to identify bottlenecks, wear issues, maintenance challenges, and capacity constraints
  • Support fabrication and construction by resolving design questions and addressing field issues during installation


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
  • 5+ years of engineering experience in mining, aggregates, bulk materials handling, or heavy industrial plant design
  • Demonstrated experience with:
  • Crushers (jaw, cone, impact), screens, wash plants, and conveyor systems
  • Bulk material flow and wear management
  • Structural steel design for industrial equipment support
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD; experience with project scheduling tools (e.g., MS Project) preferred
  • Working knowledge of:
  • Mechanical and hydraulic systems
  • Fabrication, erection, and construction methods
  • Industrial safety and constructability considerations
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both engineering teams and plant operations


Work Environment

  • Combination of office-based engineering and routine travel to active mining and aggregate sites
  • Exposure to dusty, dirty environments, heavy equipment, and varying weather conditions
  • Must be comfortable working around operating crushers, screens, and wash plants while following safety protocols


Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive base salary of $130,000 – $145,000, based on experience and qualifications
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off