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Process Development Engineer Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

Longmont, CO (onsite) Experience: 8+ years of experience in leading process development in ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Systems Engineering, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical ...

Process Engineering Manager

Longmont, CO · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Longmont, CO (onsite) Experience: 8+ years of experience in leading process development in ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Systems Engineering, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical ...

Longmont, CO (onsite) Experience: 8+ years of experience in leading process development in ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Systems Engineering, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical ...

Process Validation Engineer

Frederick, CO · On-site

$105K - $164K/yr

As a Process Validation Engineer within the Process Validation team of Agilent's Advanced ... Perform or support process development studies. May include planning, executing, and analyzing ...

As a Process Validation Engineer within the Process Validation team of Agilent's Advanced ... Perform or support process development studies. May include planning, executing, and analyzing ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

Position Summary The Manufacturing Engineer supports ICS' business objectives by driving manufacturing process development, production optimization, and documentation control to improve operational ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Longmont, CO

$72K - $92K/yr

Position Summary The Manufacturing Engineer supports ICS' business objectives by driving manufacturing process development, production optimization, and documentation control to improve operational ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Process Development & Optimization * Develop, implement, and continuously improve manufacturing and ... Collaborate with Engineering, Tooling, and Quality to ensure designs are manufacturable and meet ...

... and product development experimentation; support product commercialization teams; and design ... Process Engineering focused curriculum Six Sigma certification Experience Required: * At least two ...

Using Bash, Perl, Ruby, Python or TCL scripting to automate design tool processes * Development of ... Proficiency in programming languages such as Perl, Python, Ruby, Tcl, C/C++ in a UNIX/Linux ...

As a front-line employee, you will have vital input on process development and continuous improvement efforts. Ability to provide engineers and other development team members with valuable feedback ...

The Inerts Dev Tech will report to the Development Team Lead and work alongside other development ... Working closely with engineering during time critical processes to ensure that the required ...

The Inerts Dev Tech will report to the Development Team Lead and work alongside other development ... Working closely with engineering during time critical processes to ensure that the required ...

Using Bash, Perl, Ruby, Python or TCL scripting to automate design tool processes * Development of ... Proficiency in programming languages such as Perl, Python, Ruby, Tcl, C/C++ in a UNIX/Linux ...

Composites Engineer

Loveland, CO · Hybrid

$90K - $128K/yr

This role bridges engineering and manufacturing, focusing on analysis-driven design, process development, manufacturing tooling development, manufacturability, quality, and continuous improvement ...

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Process Development Engineer information

See Fort Collins, CO salary details

$45K

$100.6K

$151K

How much do process development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for process development engineer in Fort Collins, CO is $100,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $117,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare expertise and certifications.

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 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 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 designs, tests, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. They analyze production methods, develop new procedures, and often use tools like statistical analysis and process simulation to ensure scalable and reliable operations.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most process development engineers earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, some senior or specialized engineers in high-demand industries or with extensive experience can earn over $200,000. Earning $500,000 typically requires executive-level roles, such as director or VP of engineering, or highly specialized positions with significant responsibilities and bonuses.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Certain specialized roles, managerial positions, or engineers with advanced certifications and leadership responsibilities can also reach or exceed this salary level.
What are popular job titles related to Process Development Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO? For Process Development Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Development Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Process Development Engineer jobs in Fort Collins, CO are:
What cities near Fort Collins, CO are hiring for Process Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Fort Collins, CO with the most Process Development Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Development Engineer job openings in Fort Collins, CO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,580 per year, or $48.4 per hour.
Process Engineering Manager

Process Engineering Manager

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Location: Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: 8+ years of experience in leading process development in aerospace, defense, or high-power optics.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Systems Engineering, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Compensation: $130,000-$180,000 depending on experience.   

Who We Are
 
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense.  Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies.  Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities – from semiconductor device through target identification – to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective.  We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.  

Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
 
Summary: 
As a Process Engineering Manager, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process architecture of our complex systems. You will drive the implementation of advanced manufacturing strategies, ensuring that first-of-its-kind hardware is built with world-class precision. We are looking for a Black Belt who can solve yield issues, influence design through DFM, and provide the foundational leadership to build and manage the process engineering group.

All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.  Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.  Please review this information before applying.
 
Responsibilities:    
  • Own and drive the end-to-end process engineering strategy, ensuring scalable, high-performance product manufacturing.
  • Lead DFM/DFA and DFSS initiatives to optimize manufacturability, yield, and production readiness.
  • Establish and enforce standards for structured problem-solving, process control, MSA/GR&R, process validation, and equipment qualification & maintenance.
  • Make critical decisions balancing performance, cost, schedule, and risk; serve as the escalation point for complex challenges.
  • Build and implement execution systems and operating rhythms that enable predictable delivery and operational excellence.
  • Translate business and program goals into clear technical priorities and aligned process engineering plans.
  • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team through coaching, mentorship, and strong performance management.
  • Drive accountability for results, including yield, quality, and production readiness, while proactively managing risks.
  • Partner cross-functionally with engineering, program management, operations, and leadership to ensure successful product realization.
  • Communicate technical concepts, risks, and tradeoffs clearly to both technical and executive audiences.
 
Required Experience / Capability:     
  • Commitment to Excellence.  Attention to Detail.  Pride in Workmanship.  
  • 8+ years of experience leading process development in aerospace, defense, or high-power optics.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required, Black Belt preferred.
  • Proven track record of applying DFM/DFSS to move R&D hardware into stable production.
  • Practical expertise in process control (SPC or other), MSA, and Gage R&R.
  • Demonstrated ability to navigate ambiguity and establish formal production rigor.
 
Benefits Summary:  
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year 
  • 11 paid Holidays 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan 
  • Tuition Assistance Program 
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents 
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100% 
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting  
  
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at HR@nlightdefense.com.  
 
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