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Process Engineer Jobs in Gilroy, CA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer (Mfg Waferfab) We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to ...

Sr. Process Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$121K - $157K/yr

Institutionalize new tools and processes through documentation, process flows, work instructions, engineering reports, and training materials. * Support assessment of silicon photonics processing ...

Sr. Process Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$121K - $157K/yr

Institutionalize new tools and processes through documentation, process flows, work instructions, engineering reports, and training materials. * Support assessment of silicon photonics processing ...

Guide process engineers and technicians, promoting a culture of technical excellence and data-driven decision-making. Technical Skills & Qualifications * Deposition Expertise: In-depth knowledge of ...

Jr. Process Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Jr. Process Engineer Regular Full-Time San Jose, CA, US 30+ days ago Requisition ID: 1274 Salary Range: $95,000.00 To $120,000.00 Annually Sierra Circuits is a Silicon Valley-based leader in printed ...

Sr. Process Engineer - Water Treatment

San Jose, CA · On-site

$121K - $157K/yr

Reporting to the Technical Director and serving as a member of the Technical Direction and Process Validation (TDPV) team, the Senior Process Engineer will collaborate with Process Engineers and ...

Showing results 21-40

Process Engineer information

See Gilroy, CA salary details

$52.4K

$97.4K

$150.8K

How much do process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineer in Gilroy, CA is $97,378.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

What jobs can a process engineer do?

A process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They work in industries such as chemical, pharmaceutical, food, and automotive, often using tools like process simulation software and requiring knowledge of quality standards and safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Process Engineer jobs in Gilroy, CA?

For Process Engineer jobs in Gilroy, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Process Engineer jobs in Gilroy, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Engineer jobs in Gilroy, CA are:

What cities near Gilroy, CA are hiring for Process Engineer jobs?

Cities near Gilroy, CA with the most Process Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Process Engineer job openings in Gilroy, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,378 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Senior Wafer Process Engineer

San Jose, CA

Oclaro
1 - 5K employees

$87K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer (Mfg Waferfab)

We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions. If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply!

Our people make all the difference in our success.

We are seeking a bright Process Engineering professional to join our talented team in our San Jose Fab. If you have a passion for learning and solving problems as well as an educational background that includes materials science, physics, electrical engineering or directly related disciplines; or hands-on experience that includes wafer fabrication process and equipment; -- this role could be just what you seek.

What Will You Do:

  • This role involves developing and maintaining processes for the fabrication of compound semiconductor wafers. It requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams in Process Development, Integration, and Product Engineering to ensure the seamless transfer of advanced processes into production. Additionally, this position will support the Product Engineering team with First Pass Yield and Failure Analysis to enhance the performance and yield of photonic devices. A strong understanding and practical experience in wafer fab processing are crucial, particularly in Photolithography and Plating, as well as in Sputtering thin film deposition, RIE, PECVD, and Wet Etch.
  • Design, develop and qualify different area of Mfg. Process including but not limited to Photolithography, Plating, and Sputtering thin film deposition processes.
  • Sustain processes with emphasis on statistical process control, maintain yields and improve yields to targets.
  • Improve manufacturability and defect reduction for different process areas of the wafer fab by working closely with various process engineers.
  • Develop and maintain documentation and statistical process control (SPC) charts appropriate to a wafer manufacturing Fab.
  • Data Analysis and correlation of defects with process parameters across different process areas of the fab.
  • Process development and sustaining engineering for GaAs/InP wafer processes for existing products.
  • Provide detailed engineering analysis and documentation to support process deployment and ramp into volume manufacturing.

Requirements:

  • The ideal candidate should possess a BS degree along with over 8 years of relevant experience in a clean room manufacturing environment. An MS or PhD in materials science, electrical engineering, optics, solid state physics, or a similar field is preferred. Additionally, having over 3 years of practical experience in a production wafer fabrication facility and high-volume manufacturing is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with fabricating III-V compound semiconductor devices, such as edge-emitting lasers, vertical surface-emitting lasers, photodetectors, and integrated photonics devices, is advantageous.
  • Experience with statistical data analysis tools like JMP and Minitab is required, and proficiency in Python is considered an advantage.
  • Proven ability to execute projects independently
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills are essential for effectively interacting with Process Engineering, Manufacturing, Design, Production Engineering, and other cross-functional project teams.
  • Experience with process design of experiments (DOE), statistical process control (SPC) rules, control charts, and various aspects of manufacturing and operations is required.
  • Proven ability to independently handle projects and adapt to a flexible schedule for 24/7 fab manufacturing support.

Pay Range:

P40-USA-1 :$87,550.00 - $125,050.00

Disclaimer:

Final base salary for the successful candidate will depend on multiple factors, including but not limited to, job location, where work will be performed, qualifications, work history and relevant experience. With our continual goal of making Lumentum a best place to work for our employees, we strive to offer employees competitive total compensation packages, which may include annual bonus, commission for certain sales roles, equity, and health and welfare benefits.