ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plant Optimization Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stepan

Process Engineer

Elwood, IL

$77K - $110K/yr

The Process Engineer will provide technical support in development and execution of Capital ... Participate on plant optimization teams to identify opportunities for improvements in cost ...

New

Mellott Company

Applications Engineer

Warfordsburg, PA · On-site

Perform aggregate flow analyses and plant optimization studies, while making recommendations ... Bachelor's degree in Mining, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering Experience Requirements: Two to three ...

Mellott Company

Applications Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

Perform aggregate flow analyses and plant optimization studies, while making recommendations ... Bachelor's degree in Mining, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering Experience Requirements: Two to three ...

Stepan

Process Engineer

Elwood, IL · On-site

$77K - $110K/yr

The Process Engineer will provide technical support in development and execution of Capital ... Participate on plant optimization teams to identify opportunities for improvements in cost ...

Gateway Search Associates

Plant Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a Plant Engineer, you'll play a key role in optimizing plant operations, driving performance improvements, and ensuring the safe, efficient production of high-quality products used worldwide. This ...

Central Plains Cement

Engineer - Automation

Sugar Creek, MO · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Responsible for learning the Programmable Logic Controller software and hardware. * Responsible for ... Participates in the improvement of the Plant's technical capabilities through optimizing automation ...

NIBCO

Project Engineer

Goshen, IN · On-site

Lead various projects for overall plant optimization. Support development of new manufacturing ... Engineering: * Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and schematics. * Lead capital ...

Raya Workforce

Mechanical Engineer

Batesville, AR · On-site

Support equipment reliability, production efficiency, and plant optimization efforts. * Coordinate ... Apply engineering and economic analysis principles to justify project investments. * Maintain ...

Quanta Services

Engineering Team Lead

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$87K - $115K/yr

Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred * Experience supporting outage management, capital projects, and plant optimization initiatives * Familiarity with reliability-centered maintenance (RCM ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlant Optimization Engineer Jobs

Plant Optimization Engineer information

See salary details

$41.5K

$99.9K

$143K

How much do plant optimization engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant optimization 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 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.
More about Plant Optimization Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Plant Optimization Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Plant Optimization Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Plant Optimization Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Optimization Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plant Optimization Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Optimization Engineer jobs are:
Plant Optimization Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Optimization Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,873 per year, or $48 per hour.
Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Stepan

Elwood, IL

$77K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Job Description

Stepan Co. is hiring a Process Engineering position for our Millsdale, IL site. The Process Engineer will provide technical support in development and execution of Capital Projects from feasibility through construction and start-up.  The person in this role will serve as the key technical resource to support plant optimization efforts regarding capacity, cost, safety, quality and environmental improvements.

Responsibilities:

  • Serve as process engineer on capital project teams.
  • Develop technical deliverables on key capital projects to ensure workable, cost effective solutions are being developed that will meet the defined business/project objectives.  This includes
    • Process/Engineering Flow Diagrams
    • Material and Energy Balances (M&EB's)
    • Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID's)
    • Failure and Cause Diagrams (F&CD's)
    • Scope document reports
    • Process requirements of new equipment/instruments
  • Participate on plant optimization teams to identify opportunities for improvements in cost, capacity, environmental and safety issues.
  • Actively participate and contribute in all safety programs to continually improve the safety culture of the Company.
  • Effectively demonstrates ability to deliver on situations or problems without guidance or supervision
  • Help solve problems and make projects successful.
Qualifications
  • 4+ years of process engingeering experience
  • Experience in Chemical and related industries
  • Certified Six Sigma Green Belt is preferred
Education

BS Chemical Engineering

Pay Range: $77,000 - $110,000

The salary range for this position is determined by considering a variety of factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, and the location of the position.

#LI-RV1 #LI-ONSITE

At Stepan Company our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Discretionary Bonus
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401K with Match
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (STD / LTD)
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Established in 1932, Stepan Company is a major manufacturer of basic and intermediate chemicals including surfactants, polymers, as well as specialty ingredients that go into consumer, household, and institutional products such as laundry detergents, shampoos, and surface cleaners. Stepan Company currently has 19 global manufacturing locations and over 2,400 employees. We have a strong record of growth. Our growth allows us to provide meaningful career opportunities and stability to our team members. We have big goals at Stepan and know every team member will be crucial to achieving our objectives. Regardless of function, we are looking for team members who bring with them a growth mindset, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to thrive in an evolving environment.

We celebrate diversity at Stepan and are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Apply