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Plant Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Protingent

Plant Design Integration Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$56 - $95/hr

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

Verdox, Inc

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 ...

Bechtel

Principal Engineer - Plant Design

Reston, VA · On-site

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 ...

Bechtel

Principal Engineer - Plant Design

Reston, VA · On-site

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 ...

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Plant Design Engineer information

See salary details

$41.5K

$99.9K

$143K

How much do plant design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant design engineer 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 does a plant design engineer do?

A Plant Design Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the layout and equipment arrangement of industrial plants such as manufacturing, chemical, or power facilities. They ensure that plant designs are efficient, safe, and meet regulatory requirements. Their duties include creating blueprints, selecting equipment, collaborating with other engineers, and addressing any technical challenges during construction or modification projects. Plant Design Engineers also work to optimize plant operations and minimize production costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant design engineer?

To thrive as a Plant Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, proficiency in plant layout, and an understanding of engineering standards, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), 3D modeling tools, and industry-specific codes is essential, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set outstanding engineers apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and compliant plant designs that meet operational requirements and project goals.

How does a plant design engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Plant Design Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including process engineers, project managers, construction teams, and safety specialists. They coordinate design specifications, ensure compliance with industry standards, and integrate feedback from various stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. Regular meetings and collaborative design reviews are common, helping to address challenges early and ensure the final plant layout meets operational, safety, and budgetary requirements. This close collaboration helps streamline project timelines and improves overall plant performance.

What is the difference between Plant Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPlant Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical/Civil Engineering, possibly PE licenseBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, often PE license
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, project sitesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, project sites
Industry UsageHeavy industry, power plants, chemical plantsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy

The Plant Design Engineer focuses on designing and planning industrial plant layouts, equipment, and systems, ensuring they meet safety and efficiency standards. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on product design, machinery, and systems across various industries. While both roles require similar credentials and may work in overlapping environments, the Plant Design Engineer specializes in plant-specific projects, whereas Mechanical Engineers work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

More about Plant Design Engineer jobs

What states have the most Plant Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Plant Design Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Plant Design Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Design Engineer jobs are:

Plant Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote 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

Re-posted 5 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