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Process Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

As a Process Support Engineer (PSE), you'll play a critical role in guiding products through their entire lifecycle, from initial concept to final qualification. You will provide high-visibility ...

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Process Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$51.5K

$95.7K

$148.3K

How much do process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineer in Reston, VA is $95,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $107,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Process Engineers?

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 is the role of a Process Engineer?

A Process Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze production data, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements often using tools like Six Sigma or Lean methodologies. The role typically requires knowledge of engineering principles, process control systems, and relevant certifications.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most process engineers earn significantly less, some senior-level or specialized process engineers in high-paying industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or chemical manufacturing can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand environments.

What Is a Process Engineer?

As a process engineer, often called a chemical engineer, you are responsible for creating efficient manufacturing processes in the manufacturing industry. You will evaluate current chemical processes and modify them as needed to ensure efficiency and profitability are maximized. You will also monitor processes for safety and environmental impact and seek to improve them whenever possible. Your responsibilities may vary depending on the particular industry in which you work and specialized skills sets may be required.

What is the salary of a Process Engineer in the US?

The average salary for a Process Engineer in the US is approximately $75,000 to $105,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions typically start around $65,000, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn over $110,000 annually.

What do process engineers actually do?

Process engineers design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, safety, and quality. They analyze production systems, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements using tools like process flow diagrams and statistical analysis, often working closely with production teams and utilizing industry standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Process Engineer job openings:

Process Support Engineer II

Amat

Manassas, VA

$86K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

What We Offer

Salary:

$86,500.00 - $119,000.00

Location:

Manassas,VA

You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

As a Process Support Engineer (PSE), you'll play a critical role in guiding products through their entire lifecycle, from initial concept to final qualification. You will provide high-visibility customer support through on-site installations, system diagnoses, and the service and repair of complex systems and equipment. PSEs work closely with customers and R&D teams to develop leading-edge processes used to manufacture advanced semiconductor chips, and create hypothesis experiments and design of experiments (DOEs). You'll analyze data with statistics and compile reports with high-level conclusions on technically challenging process engineering experiments. Additionally, you will troubleshoot complex problems, perform root cause analyses, and resolve difficult process engineering and customer product issues. Process Support Engineers work across technologies such as:Chemical Vapor Deposition, Atomic Layer Deposition, Plasma Reactive Ion Etch, Physical Vapor Deposition, Anneal and Implant.

Role Responsibilities:

  • Provide high-visibility customer support through on-site installations, system diagnoses, and the service and repair of complex systems and equipment

  • Work closely with the customer to develop leading-edge processes used to manufacture the most advanced semiconductor chips, many of which are inside everyday electronic devices

  • Create hypothesis experiments and design of experiments (DOE); analyze data with statistics; and compile reports with high-level conclusions on technically challenging process engineering experiments

  • Troubleshoot complex problems; perform multiple root cause analysis; and resolve a variety of difficult process engineering and customer product issues

  • Communicate with both internal stakeholders and the customer to achieve goals with a focus on building relationships and establishing trust

  • Apply your growing knowledge of best practices to offer a new perspective using existing solutions

  • Serve as a resource for junior colleagues and a liaison between the customer and business unit; you may also lead small projects with manageable risks and resource requirements


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry/ physics, materials engineering, electrical engineering, optoelectronics or related field

  • 4-7 years of experience in the semiconductor fab or equipment industry

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to explain sensitive information and work to build consensus among project stakeholders

  • Communication proficiency in English language


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree or PhD in a related field

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

Assignee / Regular

Travel:

Yes, 50% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:

Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.