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Plant Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Plant Engineer

Fresno, CA · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Minimum 5 years? experience in engineering/maintenance management capacity in a manufacturing environment. 3 years? experience in a food processing/manufacturing plant. Any equivalent combination of ...

Minimum 5 years' experience in engineering/maintenance management capacity in a manufacturing environment. 3 years' experience in a food processing/manufacturing plant. " Any equivalent combination ...

Engineering Leadership & Strategy · Lead and manage all plant engineering functions, establishing priorities aligned with business and operational goals · Develop and implement engineering ...

Engineering Leadership & Strategy · Lead and manage all plant engineering functions, establishing priorities aligned with business and operational goals · Develop and implement engineering ...

Plan and execute capital budgets in conjunction with process engineering and plant engineering to support business expansion and improve operating costs. * Quality & Compliance: * Ensure compliance ...

The Plant Operator (I or II) provides skilled plant engineering services by applying technical expertise to a variety of equipment, systems, and controls within the central plant. Work is performed ...

Plan and execute capital budgets in conjunction with process engineering and plant engineering to support business expansion and improve operating costs. * Quality & Compliance: * Ensure compliance ...

Plan and execute capital budgets in conjunction with process engineering and plant engineering to support business expansion and improve operating costs. * Quality & Compliance: * Ensure compliance ...

Plant Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$128K - $176K/yr

Monitor all ongoing engineering projects and control project budgets and schedules. * Drive ... Ability to maintain plant operational readiness while balancing cost efficiency, high plant ...

Plant Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$128K - $176K/yr

Monitor all ongoing engineering projects and control project budgets and schedules. * Drive ... Ability to maintain plant operational readiness while balancing cost efficiency, high plant ...

Plant Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$128K - $176K/yr

Monitor all ongoing engineering projects and control project budgets and schedules. * Drive ... Ability to maintain plant operational readiness while balancing cost efficiency, high plant ...

The Plant Operator (I or II) provides skilled plant engineering services by applying technical expertise to a variety of equipment, systems, and controls within the central plant. Work is performed ...

Lead day-to-day and strategic maintenance and engineering activities for a complex manufacturing ... Partner with plant leadership and cross-functional teams to identify opportunities to improve ...

Sr. Plant Manager

Corona, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Plan and execute capital budgets in conjunction with process engineering and plant engineering to support business expansion and improve operating costs. * Quality & Compliance: * Ensure compliance ...

Plant Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$129 - $177/hr

Monitor all ongoing engineering projects and control project budgets and schedules. * Drive ... Ability to maintain plant operational readiness while balancing cost efficiency, high plant ...

Showing results 41-60

Plant Engineering information

See California salary details

$41K

$98.6K

$141.1K

How much do plant engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant engineering in California is $98,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is plant engineering?

Plant engineering is a field focused on the design, operation, maintenance, and optimization of industrial facilities and equipment. Plant engineers ensure that manufacturing plants and other industrial sites run efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. Their responsibilities often include overseeing equipment installation, troubleshooting problems, improving processes, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Plant engineers play a crucial role in maximizing productivity and minimizing downtime in various industries such as manufacturing, energy, and processing.

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

To thrive as a Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, problem-solving abilities, and typically a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, maintenance management systems, and knowledge of safety and regulatory standards are commonly required. Strong project management, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help Plant Engineers collaborate and lead teams efficiently. These competencies ensure safe, efficient plant operations and continuous process improvements.

What are some common challenges faced by plant engineers, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Plant engineers often encounter challenges such as equipment downtime, process inefficiencies, and compliance with safety regulations. Addressing these issues typically involves proactive maintenance planning, effective problem-solving, and collaboration with operations and maintenance teams. Staying updated with industry best practices and regularly communicating with cross-functional departments can help plant engineers implement long-term solutions and improve overall plant performance.

What is the difference between Plant Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPlant EngineeringMechanical Engineering
CertificationsPE (Professional Engineer), OSHA safety trainingPE, EIT, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing, R&D labs
Industry UsageHeavy industry, utilities, manufacturing plantsAutomotive, aerospace, energy, product design

Plant Engineering focuses on maintaining and improving industrial plant operations, including equipment, safety, and efficiency. Mechanical Engineering covers the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems across various industries. While both roles require similar certifications and often work in industrial settings, Plant Engineers are more involved in operational aspects, whereas Mechanical Engineers focus on design and development.

What does a plant engineer do?

A plant engineer is responsible for maintaining, designing, and improving manufacturing or industrial plant operations. They oversee equipment, ensure safety standards, troubleshoot technical issues, and often use tools like CAD software. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering principles are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of Plant Engineering jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Plant Engineering jobs in California?

For Plant Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plant Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,565 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

$120K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Mission Foods rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 445 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Corporation and its parent company, GRUMA S.A. de C.V. Mission Foods is looking for a talented Plant Engineer for its Fresno, CA Plant. Under the direction of the Plant Manager, the Plant Engineer is responsible for minimizing loss time in the entire plant by maintaining the equipment in operable condition and being always prepared for emergency repairs.Develops and implements the preventative maintenance program. Monitors the performance of the maintenance department and provides coaching and correction when necessary. Enforce safe work practices in the maintenance department. Assures that new maintenance employees are properly trained by working with the manager and supervisors to establish a comprehensive training schedule. Make sure the maintenance department is submitting boiler and fire protection reports appropriately, as required. Documents and investigation of all accidents within the maintenance department. Mentors the maintenance manager and ensures that person has all the tools and contacts necessary to expedite equipment repairs and work assignments. Performs other duties as assigned.EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Bachelor?s degree in mechanical/Electrical Engineering or related field required. Minimum 5 years? experience in engineering/maintenance management capacity in a manufacturing environment. 3 years? experience in a food processing/manufacturing plant. Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience may be considered for the above. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIESAbility to read electrical diagrams, have good electrical skills. Familiar with OSHA regulations, AIB standards Management, strong leadership, computer, and communication skills Exposure to Quality Systems/Lean Manufacturing preferred. Strong computer skills SAP knowledge preferred. Bilingual English/Spanish REQUIRED. Salary Range: $120,000.00 - $125,000.00 plus $7k Discretionary BonusOur Full Benefits Package includes Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, Life insurance and AD&D Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, and Flexible Spending Accounts. Additionally, we offer a 401(k) plan with matching, Paid shoe allowances, Vacation, Sick Pay, and 7 Paid Holidays.*This position is eligible for relocation assistance.Gruma Corporation and its affiliates, including but not limited to Azteca Milling, L.P., are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law. The information collected by this application is solely for the purposes of determining suitability for employment, verifying your identity, and maintaining employment statistics on applicants. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act as well as state and local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on Gruma. Please inform the company's personnel representative if you need assistance completing any forms or to otherwise participate in the application process.#LI-JT1

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