ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plant Optimization Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mariana Minerals

Materials Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... plant optimization algorithms What You'll Bring * MS degree in Materials Science, Chemistry ... Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate - We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.

NAES

Power Plant Engineer, Entry Level

Mckittrick, CA · On-site

... optimization of the plant's Distributed Control System (DCS), turbine control systems, PLCs, and ... Maintain engineering documentation, technical drawings, configuration records, and plant files to ...

NAES

Power Plant Engineer

Mckittrick, CA · On-site

Engineering Performance & Reliability * Track forced outages, derates, and loss of generation ... Support the evaluation, maintenance, and optimization of the plant's Distributed Control System ...

NAES Corporation

Power Plant Engineer

Mckittrick, CA · On-site

$140K - $165K/hr

Engineering Performance & Reliability * Track forced outages, derates, and loss of generation ... Support the evaluation, maintenance, and optimization of the plant's Distributed Control System ...

Yang Management, Inc.

Be Seen First

Project Engineer I - Sustainability

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

The Project Engineer I - Sustainability position provides technical and administrative support to ... plant optimization, LED lighting upgrades, energy efficiency retrofits, renewable energy systems ...

Kimmel & Associates

Senior Energy Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$140K - $150K/yr

... plant optimization. Requirements Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a ... related technical field. * Minimum of seven (7) years of experience in energy engineering.

Kimmel & Associates

Senior Energy Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

... plant optimization. Requirements Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a ... related technical field. * Minimum of seven (7) years of experience in energy engineering.

Kimmel & Associates

Senior Energy Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$140K - $150K/yr

... plant optimization. Requirements Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a ... related technical field. * Minimum of seven (7) years of experience in energy engineering.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlant Optimization Engineer JobsPlant Optimization Engineer Jobs in California

Plant Optimization Engineer information

What are some typical challenges faced by plant optimization engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Plant Optimization Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing production efficiency with safety and environmental regulations, integrating new technologies into existing processes, and managing cross-functional communication. Addressing these challenges typically involves strong analytical skills, continuous collaboration with operations and maintenance teams, and staying updated on industry best practices. Proactive problem-solving and adaptability are crucial, as is the ability to lead process improvement initiatives while ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

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

To thrive as a Plant Optimization Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, along with experience in process optimization and data analysis. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or MATLAB), Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications, and SCADA systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help drive continuous improvement and facilitate cross-functional teamwork. These competencies are crucial for maximizing plant efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring operational excellence in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Plant Optimization Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectPlant Optimization EngineerProcess Engineer
Primary FocusMaximizing plant efficiency and performanceDesigning and improving manufacturing processes
Skills & CertificationsProcess optimization, data analysis, engineering fundamentalsProcess design, chemical/industrial engineering, certifications like PE
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageEnergy, chemicals, manufacturingChemical, petrochemical, manufacturing

While both roles involve process understanding, the Plant Optimization Engineer focuses on improving overall plant performance and efficiency, often using data analysis and optimization techniques. The Process Engineer concentrates on designing and refining specific processes. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in scope and daily tasks.

What does a plant optimization engineer do?

A Plant Optimization Engineer is responsible for improving the efficiency, productivity, and safety of industrial plants. They analyze current processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions such as automation, new technologies, or process adjustments. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers, operators, and management to ensure optimal plant performance while reducing costs and minimizing environmental impact.
What are popular job titles related to Plant Optimization Engineer jobs in California? For Plant Optimization Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Optimization Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Optimization Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Plant Optimization Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Plant Optimization Engineer job openings:
Plant Optimization Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Optimization Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Pilot Plant Technician

Mariana Minerals

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

About Mariana Minerals
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We're reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
Role Overview
Mariana Minerals is looking for a highly motivated technician to join our San Francisco Pilot Plant team. You will support the design, deployment, and operation of first-of-its-kind refining processes for critical minerals, while also supporting development of software for automated plant optimization. This position is highly hands-on and will play a critical role in bridging R&D and Operations, ensuring processes are robust, safe, cost-effective, and suitable for commercial production.
What You'll Do
  • Assist engineers and other technicians to operate and monitor copper extraction chemical processes
  • Safely handle chemicals, raw materials, and waste streams in compliance with SOPs and regulations
  • Support sampling, quality checks, and basic laboratory measurements
  • Assist with design, install, startup, and commissioning of new equipment and processes
  • Take ownership of plant cleanliness and organization, ensuring work areas, tools, and equipment are well-maintained and ready for operations
  • Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and basic mechanical repairs; document findings & actions in a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
  • Create and maintain procedures, experimental records, shift reports, and other critical operations documents

What You'll Bring
  • Associate degree, technical certificate, or equivalent experience in chemical technology, process technology, industrial operations, or a related field
  • 3+ years of experience operating pilot plant or commercial scale industrial equipment in the minerals processing, chemicals, specialty materials, oil & gas, biotech, or similar industry
  • Prior exposure to core plant safety work processes such as Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), hot work permitting, confined space entry, and safe work permitting systems
  • Experience using human-machine interfaces (HMIs) and plant software systems to monitor, control, and adjust process operation
  • Experience with hands-on equipment installation, modification, and troubleshooting
  • Basic knowledge of inorganic chemistry, pH, and reaction stoichiometry a plus
  • Experience using engineering documents such as PFDs, control narratives, or P&IDs is a plus
  • Climb stairs, stand for extended periods of time, and safely lift up to 50 lbs
Our culture is built on three principles:
Extreme Ownership - We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.
Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate - We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.
Share Your Legos - We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.
Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply.

Apply