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Process Development Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Process Development Engineer (Assembly) applies Manufacturing, Engineering and analytical principles to the development of global manufacturing processes. The Process Development Engineer ...

We are currently seeking a Development Engineer for an assigned project with a client in the ... Understanding of DFMEA, DVP&R, and validation processes * Strong problem-solving and root cause ...

We are currently seeking a Development Engineer for an assigned project with a client in the ... Understanding of DFMEA, DVP&R, and validation processes * Strong problem-solving and root cause ...

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Process Development Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$39.7K

$88.6K

$132.9K

How much do process development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for process development engineer in Michigan is $88,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $103,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Process Development Engineer?

A process development engineer designs and plans production systems to be cost-effective, safe, and meet quality requirements for their industry. These professionals often work as part of a quality assurance team or a production management department for industrial companies, such as manufacturing or mining businesses. As a process development engineer, your job duties include reviewing the company's current production processes and designing modifications to the current system or creating new systems to increase productivity. Once you have installed or implemented the system, you make sure to test and troubleshoot it to ensure they run properly.

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

To thrive as a Process Development Engineer, you need a solid foundation in engineering principles, process optimization, and problem-solving, typically supported by a degree in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB), Six Sigma methodologies, and relevant industry certifications is often required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills help you excel in cross-functional projects and drive continuous improvement. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing efficient processes, ensuring product quality, and supporting organizational competitiveness.

What are some common challenges faced by Process Development Engineers when scaling up from laboratory to production environments?

One of the main challenges Process Development Engineers encounter is ensuring that processes which work efficiently at a laboratory scale can be reliably and safely replicated in full-scale manufacturing. Differences in equipment size, process dynamics, and raw material variability can lead to unforeseen issues such as inconsistent product quality or unexpected safety hazards. Effective communication and collaboration with both R&D and production teams are essential to troubleshoot problems and optimize process parameters. Engineers often need to adapt quickly, apply problem-solving skills, and implement robust validation protocols to ensure successful scale-up.

What does a Process Development Engineer do?

A Process Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. They often work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or electronics, collaborating with cross-functional teams to scale up processes from the lab to full production. Their role includes troubleshooting process issues, implementing new technologies, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. By constantly refining processes, they help companies maintain competitive advantages and meet production goals.

What is the difference between Process Development Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectProcess Development EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and optimizing manufacturing processes for new productsOverseeing and improving existing manufacturing processes
Work EnvironmentR&D labs, pilot plants, early-stage productionProduction floors, plant operations
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, experience in process designBachelor's or higher in engineering, experience in manufacturing
Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, electronics, chemicals, biotechAutomotive, consumer goods, electronics, industrial manufacturing

While both roles involve process optimization, Process Development Engineers focus on creating and refining new manufacturing processes, often in early development stages. Manufacturing Engineers typically work on maintaining and improving existing production processes to ensure efficiency and quality in ongoing operations.

What job categories do people searching Process Development Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Process Development Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Development Engineer jobs in MI? For Process Development Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Process Development Engineer - Assembly

Process Development Engineer - Assembly

Magna

Troy, MI

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job descriptions may display in multiple languagesbased on your language selection.

What we offer:
At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed. As a member of our global team, you can expect exciting, varied responsibilities as well as a wide range of development prospects. Because we believe that your career path should be as unique as you are.
Group Summary:
The Magna Exteriors portfolio of products includes access systems such as liftgates, exterior trim, modular systems, front-end modules including fascia, active aerodynamic systems and other lightweight structural components for automotive, commercial truck and other industrial markets.
Recognized globally as an innovator in all aspects of vehicle exteriors, Magna provides everything needed, from materials development and design through manufacturing and assembly, to help automakers create sleek, state-of-the-art vehicles across the world.

Job Responsibilities:

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Process Development Engineer (Assembly) applies Manufacturing, Engineering and analytical principles to the development of global manufacturing processes. The Process Development Engineer (Assembly) will be responsible fordesigning, developing, implementing and optimizing manufacturing assembly processes.This involves defining processes, selecting equipment, cooperation with vendors, troubleshooting issues, and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Function as an assembly development specialist and assembly subject matter expert with an expertise in related technologies, materials, machines, product design and tooling.

  • Identify and lead new development projects focusing on new technology concepts, cost savings, global activities and obtaining new business.

  • Create & execute goals, timing and cost for project(s) and program(s).

  • Create efficient and cost-effective assembly processes, including workflow, equipment layout, and tooling.

  • Track & evaluate emerging technologies. Monitor and benchmark competitors.

  • Communicate/coordinate projects between divisions, sales, targeted programs, customer needs and corporate representative on behalf of the Manufacturing strategy department.

  • Support Exteriors and Sales group in pursuing new business including planning of Greenfields and Brownfields.

  • Participate as a lead member of the Global Expert Team to coordinate development activities across all of Exteriors and Magna worldwide.

  • Research, support, and implement new technologies for Magna Exteriors Manufacturing Processes.

  • Identify design improvements and create design specifications for a variety of complex product components to obtain operational, cost, quality, and/or manufacturing feasibility improvements.

  • Assist with the selection, installation, and testing of manufacturing equipment.

  • Contribute to the standardization, provide technical documentation, present findings, and assist in the development of global assembly best practices and standards

  • Analyze highly complex design and process problems and formulates engineering conclusions by the application of engineering and/or mathematical principles.

  • Consult with cross functional groups in various engineering activities relative to the design, prototype, and experimental construction of product components.

  • Follow operational procedures, work-standards, and divisional guidelines with minimum supervision

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

  • 7 years of experience in assembly equipment/secondary equipment for plastic parts

  • Understanding of assembly solution, machines, systems, and operations (welding, milling, bonding, punching, etc)

  • Experience with CAD software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks is beneficial for designing and modeling assembly processes.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

  • Experience in automotive or high-volume manufacturing preferred.

  • The ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise during the assembly process is critical.

  • Knowledge of process optimization techniques, lean manufacturing principals,and Six Sigma methodologies is essential.

  • Familiarity with process modeling, simulation software, PLC and robotics can be helpful.

  • Ability to work in cross-functional and cross-regional teams and manage multiple priorities

Other Job Elements:

  • Represent our company professionally, and with a high level of integrity and enthusiasm.

  • Develop customer relationships that support our ability to be successful.

  • Effectively network and communicate to utilize resources within the company.

  • Effective Communication with Employees, Managers, Divisions and Customers globally.

  • Keen to learn new and state of the art technologies and processes for mass production applications.

  • Ability to learn and utilize different software (ex. AutoCAD, related robot software, etc)

  • Other job duties as required and/or assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability and/or physical demands required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Skills/Special Knowledge - University degree related to Manufacturing or Engineering. Equivalent job experience also acceptable.

Physical Demands/Work Environment - Normal amount of sitting or standing, average mobility to move around an office environment, able to conduct normal amount of work at a computer, will require travel (domestic and international) when needed. Travel may last weeks at a time.

Awareness, Unity, Empowerment:

At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That's why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.

AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure

As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.

Under conditions defined by applicable law, you may have the right to request an explanation of how AI is used to support decision-making.

If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.

Worker Type:

Regular / Permanent

Group:

Magna Exteriors