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Principal Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Principal Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$85.9K

$148.1K

$180.1K

How much do principal process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal process engineer in California is $148,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,300.00 and $167,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Principal Process Engineer, you need deep expertise in chemical or process engineering, advanced problem-solving skills, and typically a relevant engineering degree with substantial industry experience. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or CHEMCAD), Six Sigma or Lean certifications, and knowledge of regulatory standards are important technical assets. Leadership, effective communication, and project management skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure efficient process design, regulatory compliance, and successful cross-functional collaboration on complex engineering projects.

What is the difference between Principal Process Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Process EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; extensive experienceBachelor's degree in Engineering; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLead projects, oversee process design, and mentor teams in manufacturing or chemical plantsAssist in process design, troubleshooting, and optimization under supervision
Industry UsageCommon in large manufacturing, chemical, and oil & gas companiesFound across various industries including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and energy

The Principal Process Engineer typically holds advanced credentials and leads complex projects, focusing on strategic process improvements. In contrast, the Process Engineer is more involved in supporting and executing process tasks. Both roles are essential in process industries, but the Principal Process Engineer operates at a higher level of responsibility and expertise.

What is a Principal Process Engineer?

A Principal Process Engineer is a senior-level engineering professional responsible for designing, optimizing, and overseeing industrial processes within a company. They lead complex projects, provide technical guidance to engineering teams, and ensure that processes meet safety, quality, and efficiency standards. Principal Process Engineers often collaborate with other departments to implement process improvements and solve technical challenges. Their expertise is crucial in industries such as chemical, manufacturing, oil and gas, and pharmaceuticals.

How does a Principal Process Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

A Principal Process Engineer often acts as a key liaison between engineering, operations, project management, and quality assurance teams. They lead process design reviews, facilitate technical discussions, and ensure that project deliverables align with organizational goals and regulatory standards. Effective communication and coordination are essential, as they guide multidisciplinary teams through troubleshooting, optimization, and implementation phases. This collaborative role ensures that process improvements are feasible, cost-effective, and sustainable across the project lifecycle.

What Is a Principal Process Engineer?

A principal process engineer works with a team to analyze the efficiency of company processes and identify potential improvements. In this career, you usually work in a large production or manufacturing facility. You must have excellent technical, organizational, and analytical skills. Your job duties include helping management in the development of schedules, budgets, or guidelines for your department, overseeing other engineers, collaborating to support process solutions, and creating simulations, diagrams, and project plans. You also use engineering computer software to design process plans and review data to calculate constant improvements. Qualifications for a career as a principal process engineer include a bachelor's degree in engineering.

More about Principal Process Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Principal Process Engineer jobs in California? For Principal Process Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Principal Process Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Principal Process Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Process Engineer jobs in CA? For Principal Process Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Process Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $148,117 per year, or $71.2 per hour.
Principal Process Engineer

Principal Process Engineer

KORE1 Technologies

San Bernardino, CA • Hybrid

$120K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


KORE1, a nationwide provider of staffing and recruiting solutions, has an immediate opening for a Principal Process Engineer in San Bernadino, CA

As a Principal Process Engineer, you will have a specialized focus on designing, optimizing, and troubleshooting continuous production processes within an apparel distribution center. You are a technical specialist focused on physical DC optimization, transformations, and design. The Principal Process Engineer in a distribution environment is a hands-on expert responsible for continuously improving and optimizing all processes within the distribution center ('within the four walls') and for driving upstream supply chain improvement initiatives. This role serves as a change agent, ensuring that every process enhancement delivers measurable ROI.
What You'll Do
  • Identify opportunities: Conduct comprehensive analyses and time studies of existing 'four-walls' distribution processes (e.g., receiving, put-away, picking, pulling, packing, wave planning and shipping) and upstream supplier logistics to identify waste, inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
  • Utilize methodologies: Apply Lean Operating Principles, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other process improvement methodologies to map current and future states (Value Stream Mapping), driving operational excellence and eliminating non-value-added activities.
  • Evaluate technology: Assess and evaluate current state configuration and functionality regarding technologies. Recommend automation where applicable, and warehouse management systems (CIMS) enhancements to maximize facility efficiencies. Provide recommendations and business cases for implementation.
  • Standardized processes: Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all key distribution and upstream processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety.
  • Project management: Lead complex, cross-functional projects focused on process improvement, from ideation and design to execution and successful handover. Manage project scope, budget, and timeline effectively.
  • Develop technical solutions: Design and engineer process-driven solutions. This includes designing facility layouts, process flow paths, and workflows that increase productivity, quality, and cost savings.
  • Implement change: Lead "boots on the ground" implementation efforts, working directly with operations teams and stakeholders to drive adoption of new processes and overcome resistance to change.
  • Document processes: Draft, update, and review all process engineering documentation and standard work instructions
Financial measurement and reporting
  • Quantify ROI: Develop robust metrics and KPIs to measure the effectiveness and ROI of every process improvement initiative. This includes measuring cost savings, productivity gains, and other tangible benefits.
  • Data analysis: Leverage data analytics tools (e.g., SQL, Qlikview/Qliksense) to analyze supply chain data, forecast demand, and model optimal process scenarios.
  • Report findings: Present data-driven insights and project results to all levels of management, clearly communicating the business value of improvements.
Upstream optimization
  • Collaborate with Hybrid Business Owners: Partner with procurement and suppliers to optimize upstream logistics. This includes developing strategies to reduce lead times, improve quality, and ensure on-time delivery of materials.
  • Address bottlenecks: Work with Organization and business owners, vendors and suppliers to recommend improvements for packaging, handling, and other inbound processes that affect "within the four walls" efficiency.
Stakeholder collaboration and mentorship
  • Partner cross-functionally: Work with Finance, Demand Planning, Operations, Quality, and AM/OM Sales teams to drive continuous improvement and ensure process solutions meet overall business objectives.
  • Coach and mentor: Serve as a technical leader, coaching and mentoring other Hybrid owners and operations personnel on process improvement principles and tools.
  • Champion ownership: Effectively hand over newly implemented processes and tools to operations, ensuring they are fully trained and equipped to sustain improvements independently.

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in industrial engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
  • Significant experience in distribution center operations or supply chain logistics.
  • Certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt are highly desirable.
  • Proven track record of successfully implementing process improvements with measurable ROI.
  • Expertise in data analysis, modeling, and forecasting.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to influence and train at all levels of the organization.

Compensation depends on experience but is typically $120,000-$125,000

ABOUT KORE1
Specializing in professional and technical recruiting, KORE1 is committed to supporting top IT, Engineering, Creative, Scientific, Accounting and Finance professionals in their career paths. We build deep relationships with leading companies, connecting them to exceptional talent every day. With extensive industry expertise and unmatched opportunities, our goal is to provide a unique experience for our contractors and consultants as they prepare for their next role. We are passionate about matching the right people with the right companies.

Kore1 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Kore1 complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Kore1 expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Kore1's employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.