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Principal Process Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Principal Process Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$83.1K

$143.3K

$174.3K

How much do principal process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal process engineer in Houston, TX is $143,324.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,100.00 and $161,900.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Process Engineer jobs in Houston, TX? For Principal Process Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Process Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Process Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:
Infographic showing various Principal Process Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $143,324 per year, or $68.9 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Audubon is currently seeking a Process Engineer, Principal to join our team in our Houston, TX Office. The Process Engineer, Principal will perform process engineering assignments associated with designing equipment, components, structures or systems.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Independently prepare advanced level specifications for project assignments detailing client performance requirements, specific component needs, design requirements, applicable design codes, and vendor drawing requirements.
  • Prepare engineering sketches, perform engineering calculations and develop analysis models for complex project assignments.
  • Review and/or approve vendor drawings for compliance with project specifications.
  • Interact and communicate effectively with clients, subcontractors, vendors and other consultants.
  • Set realistic expectations and ensure assigned projects are completed according to schedule and within budget.
  • Adhere to company quality standards and follow engineering checking and approval procedures.
  • Comply with all company and client health, safety, security and environmental (HSSE) standards as well as federal and local HSSE regulations.
  • Actively participate in company and client hazard identification and observation programs, and immediately report any unsafe acts, conditions or incidents to your supervisor.
  • Interact with drafting/design group to develop and review engineering drawings.
  • Visit job-sites to evaluate site, project requirements, and conditions.
  • Visit vendor facilities to inspect equipment for compliance with requirements/specifications.
  • Prepare inquiry and purchase requisitions as well as bid tabulations associated with equipment purchases.
  • Perform checking of engineering drawings and mathematical calculations.
  • Adhere to safe design practices, while focusing on identifying cost saving opportunities.
  • Plan and manage workload, budgets and project resources, requesting assistance as necessary.
  • Develop, review and/or approve conceptual and detailed engineering design packages.
  • Assist in the development of internal design guidelines, specifications, and design control procedures.
  • Assess feasibility of projects by assessing materials, costs and time requirements, applying knowledge and techniques of engineering and advanced mathematics.
  • Utilize complex and repetitive calculations.
  • Prepare or direct preparation and modification of reports, specifications, plans, and/or construction schedules for projects.
  • Analyze and examine different strategies, equations and applications to ensure appropriate procedures are applied and/or utilized. Resolve design and development issues.
  • Manage client relationships and develop repeat business opportunities.
  • Compile discipline-specific man-hour estimates and Total Installed Cost estimates based on client provided project scope.
  • Manage and forecast man-hour requirements and schedules associated with discipline-specific project scope.
  • Assess challenges and potential risks of planned projects, including construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards and other factors.
  • Undertake initiatives for risk management and appropriate steps to address it.
  • Undertake technical and feasibility studies including site investigations.
  • May lead large scope multi-discipline projects and manage day to day workflow within a group or project; may delegate assignments, distribute workload, establish work deadlines, and issue reports to immediate supervisor regarding completion of work.
  • Responsible for providing feedback to immediate supervisor regarding co-worker's performance and any work related issues, including those that might lead to disciplinary actions.
  • Provide advice and assistance on work techniques, best practices, and subject matter expertise to co-workers.
  • Serve as Engineer in Responsible Charge as assigned, and adhere to regulations regarding PE sealing requirements specific to assigned projects.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering required.
  • Bachelor's Degree from ABET Accredited Institution preferred.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering preferred.
  • PE License required.
  • Field experience required.
  • Industry experience required.
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience preferred.
  • Large multi-discipline project lead experience preferred.
  • HYSYS, ProMax or equivalent software experience preferred.
  • Working knowledge of conceptual through detailed design and P&ID development preferred.
  • Working knowledge of codes (API, etc.) and Process design standards preferred.
  • Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
  • Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work related problems.
  • Ability to comprehend instructions and request clarification as necessary.
  • Ability to work in a team oriented environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with others verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to organize and direct a project to completion.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

No recruiters please!