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Process Engineer Jobs in Forest Lake, MN (NOW HIRING)

VAA

Senior Food Process Engineer (Hybrid)

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$100K - $150K/yr

Senior Food Process Engineer (Hybrid) VAA is seeking a Senior Food Process Engineer to join our team. This position provides technical leadership in food production process design and acts as a point ...

VAA

Senior Food Process Engineer (Hybrid)

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Senior Food Process Engineer (Hybrid)VAA is seeking a Senior Food Process Engineer to join our team. This position provides technical leadership in food production process design and acts as a point ...

Integer

Process Development Engineer III

Plymouth, MN · On-site

You support process development activities for new product introduction, product transfers, and process improvement initiatives. * You execute engineering projects and assignments under the guidance ...

REO Plastics

Process and Automation Tech

Osseo, MN · On-site

$35 - $42/hr

The Process & Automation Technician will be assisting the Process Engineer in designing, building and improving auxiliary equipment to maximize productivity on new and existing products.Good ...

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All JobsProcess Engineer JobsProcess Engineer Jobs in Forest Lake, MN

Process Engineer information

See Forest Lake, MN salary details

$49.4K

$91.8K

$142.1K

How much do process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineer in Forest Lake, MN is $91,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,300.00 and $102,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of a process engineer?

A process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze production workflows, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements using tools like process flow diagrams and statistical analysis. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of industry standards are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges process engineers face when implementing process improvements, and how can they overcome them?

Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from team members, integrating new technologies with existing systems, and ensuring process changes meet regulatory standards. Overcoming these obstacles typically involves clear communication, involving stakeholders early in the process, thorough documentation, and piloting changes before full-scale implementation. Building strong cross-functional relationships and continuously gathering feedback also help ensure that improvements are effective and sustainable.

What is a process engineer?

Process Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and optimize industrial processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing or production environments. They analyze workflows, troubleshoot process issues, and develop solutions to enhance productivity and reduce costs. Process Engineers often work in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and energy, ensuring processes are compliant with environmental and safety regulations. Their work is vital for maintaining smooth operations and achieving organizational goals.

What jobs do process engineers do?

Process engineers design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, safety, and quality. They analyze production data, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements using tools like process flow diagrams and statistical analysis. Their work often involves collaboration with production teams and requires knowledge of engineering principles and industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and understanding of process optimization principles. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or AutoCAD), Six Sigma methodologies, and quality management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to improve efficiency, ensure safety, and drive continuous improvement in industrial and manufacturing processes.

What is the difference between Process Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectProcess EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Lean Manufacturing
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing processes, R&D settingsOverseeing production lines, factory floors
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, aerospaceAutomotive, electronics, consumer goods

Process Engineers focus on designing and improving manufacturing processes, often working in R&D or engineering departments. Manufacturing Engineers concentrate on implementing and managing production on the factory floor. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ mainly in their scope and work environment.

More about Process Engineer jobs
What cities near Forest Lake, MN are hiring for Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Forest Lake, MN with the most Process Engineer job openings:
Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Engineer job openings in Forest Lake, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,781 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Senior Food Process Engineer (Hybrid)

VAA

Minneapolis, MN • Hybrid

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Senior Food Process Engineer (Hybrid)

VAA is seeking a Senior Food Process Engineer to join our team. This position provides technical leadership in food production process design and acts as a point of contact for our food production clients and internal design teams as required on projects that include food process equipment/line optimization and debottlenecking, process and packaging equipment upgrades and procurement specifications.

Your role:

  • Serve as the client and internal team's main point of contact for the process design areas of expertise.
  • Prepare process engineering analyses, diagrams, reports, equipment and instrumentation procurement specifications, and layout sketches for project screening, basis of design, and execution phases.
  • Review technical proposals from process and utility equipment vendors and provide bid tabs and recommendations to clients.
  • Research, understand and convey client's needs to meet client's expectations for their process optimization and upgrade.
  • Facilitate internal and external coordination meetings (clients, equipment suppliers) as required.
  • Communicate with clients, equipment vendors, installation contractors and other stakeholders regarding the process design.
  • Closely manage project budget; identify and prepare requests for additional services.
  • Closely manage work schedule; proactively communicate any potential delays to VAA project manager.
  • Oversee, review, and redline work of junior process engineers and technical staff.
  • Demonstrate leadership with excellent responsiveness to clients.
  • Perform site visits to collect design information and meet with project stakeholders as required

Your resume must include:

  • BS or MS in Chemical, Industrial or Mechanical Engineering
  • 8+ years of food equipment and plant design experience.
  • Consulting engineering experience preferred.
  • Strong background in food process engineering, including equipment and CIP system design, mass and energy balances, and food safety regulations.
  • Experience developing process documentation (BFDs, PFDs, P&IDs), instrumentation specifications, procurement packages, and food processing equipment

Starting Salary Range: $100,000 - $150,000. A variety of factors are considered when determining an offer including, but not limited to, market data, geographic location, experience, and specialized skills.

Benefits: Health, dental, vision, life insurance, profit-sharing, 401(k), paid leave, and more!

Get to Know VAA

VAA is an Engineering, Planning and Design firm specializing in commercial projects, bulk commodity-handling facilities, and structures for value-added processing, manufacturing and distribution. VAA is one of the industry's leading firms, combining nearly a half-century of excellence with a vibrant, future-focused energy. We serve a diverse portfolio of clients, ranging from multinational corporations to local municipalities to individual farms and businesses.

Hear first-hand what it's like to work here, the range of opportunities you can find and the wealth of resources that will support you - both professionally and personally:

https://vaaeng.com/careers/#careers-video

Why VAA?

  • It's not all calcs and CAD around here. Join your peers for a chili cookoff or homebrew tasting... get an opportunity to dunk the CEO during our annual Community Caring Campaign. Take advantage of charitable PTO to volunteer for organizations you're passionate about. At VAA, we're committed to building community from within and making a difference in the communities where we live and work.
  • Support for life/work balance: flexible schedule options, onsite gym, Employee Assistance Program, and fun opportunities for friendly competition
  • Ongoing professional development, including mentoring, online learning and tuition reimbursement.
  • An award-winning workplace, recognized by USA Today as a national 2024, 2025, and 2026 Top Workplace USA and by the Star Tribune as one of Minnesota's Top 200 Workplaces (2022/2023/2024/2025).

Let's get growing™

Your career. Your talents. Your network.

Apply today!

#VAA #SeniorFoodProcessEngineer #FoodProcess Engineer #ProcessEngineer


VAA is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Vets/Disability employer

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About VAA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1978

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