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Process Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pbf Energy

Manager, Process Engineering

Martinez, CA

$121K - $216K/yr

Manager, Process Engineering PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in North America, operating, through its subsidiaries, oil refineries and related facilities. We ...

PBF Energy, Inc.

Manager, Process Engineering

Martinez, CA · On-site

$121K - $216K/yr

Manager, Process Engineering PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in North America, operating, through its subsidiaries, oil refineries and related facilities. We ...

Velo3D

Process Engineering Technician

Fremont, CA

$35 - $40/hr

The Process Engineering Technician is responsible for analyzing and managing sample flow from experiments on 3D laser powder bed fusion systems in development at Velo3D. Samples will come from a wide ...

Velo3D

Process Engineering Technician

Fremont, CA

$35 - $40/hr

The Process Engineering Technician is responsible for analyzing and managing sample flow from experiments on 3D laser powder bed fusion systems in development at Velo3D. Samples will come from a wide ...

Velo3D

Process Engineering Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

The Process Engineering Technician is responsible for analyzing and managing sample flow from experiments on 3D laser powder bed fusion systems in development at Velo3D. Samples will come from a wide ...

VOLT

Process Engineering Technician

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

As an Processing Engineer Technician, you will: • Performs set up of processing equipment. • Monitors, audits and provides guidance to line operators. • Processes test runs and prepares records ...

PPG Industries, Inc.

Process Engineering Leader

Mojave, CA · On-site

$124K - $161K/yr

PPG has a job opening for a Process Engineering Leader in the Aerospace Science and Technology team. You will be based in Burbank and Mojave, CA, with global responsibilities for process engineering ...

PPG

Process Engineering Leader

Burbank, CA · On-site

$110K - $143K/yr

PPG has a job opening for a Process Engineering Leader in the Aerospace Science and Technology team. You will be based in Burbank and Mojave, CA, with global responsibilities for process engineering ...

Johnson and Johnson

Eng Process Engineering

Irvine, CA · On-site

Process Engineering Job Category: Scientific/Technology All Job Posting Locations: Irvine, California, United States of America About MedTech Fueled by innovation at the intersection of biology and ...

PsiQuantum

Manager of Process Engineering

Milpitas, CA · On-site

The Manager/Sr Manager of Process Engineering will manage a team of opto-mechanical process engineers and be responsible for subassembly (SA) development and assembly build, ensuring quality, for RD ...

PsiQuantum

Manager of Process Engineering

Milpitas, CA · On-site

The Manager/Sr Manager of Process Engineering will manage a team of opto-mechanical process engineers and be responsible for subassembly (SA) development and assembly build, ensuring quality, for RD ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsProcess Engineering JobsProcess Engineering Jobs in California

Process Engineering information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineering in California is $90,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are process engineers in demand?

Process engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, chemical, and energy sectors due to their role in optimizing production processes and improving efficiency. Employment growth is driven by the need for cost reduction, safety improvements, and technological advancements, with many positions requiring skills in process simulation and control systems.

What is process engineering?

Process engineering is a field of engineering focused on designing, implementing, controlling, and optimizing industrial processes, particularly in manufacturing and chemical production. Process engineers work to develop efficient systems for transforming raw materials into finished products, ensuring safety, quality, and cost-effectiveness. They apply principles from chemistry, physics, and mathematics to solve production problems and improve processes. Process engineering is essential in industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and energy.

What is the difference between Process Engineering vs Chemical Engineering?

AspectProcess EngineeringChemical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; often certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's or higher in Chemical Engineering; professional engineer (PE) license may be preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, process facilities, industrial settingsResearch labs, chemical plants, design offices
Industry UsageFocuses on optimizing manufacturing processes and production efficiencyDesigns chemical processes, develops new chemicals, and research

Process Engineering primarily concentrates on improving and maintaining manufacturing processes within industrial settings, while Chemical Engineering involves designing chemical processes and developing new chemical products. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often overlap in industry applications, but their core focus areas differ.

What jobs do process engineers 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. Their work often involves collaboration with production teams and requires knowledge of engineering principles and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by process engineers when implementing process improvements in a manufacturing environment?

Process engineers often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from operators and staff, integrating new technologies with legacy systems, and ensuring that improvements do not disrupt ongoing production. Balancing cost-effectiveness with quality and safety standards can also be demanding. Successful process engineers collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, provide clear communication, and use data-driven approaches to overcome these obstacles and drive continuous improvement.

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 engineering principles, process optimization, and problem-solving, typically supported by a degree in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering. Familiarity with process simulation software (like Aspen Plus or AutoCAD), Six Sigma certification, and experience with quality management systems are often required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills to excel in cross-functional projects and drive continuous improvement. These skills ensure efficient production processes, cost reduction, and consistent product quality within manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Process Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Engineering jobs in California? For Process Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Process Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Process Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Process Engineering job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Process Engineering jobs in CA? For Process Engineering jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Process Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Process Engineering Technician 5

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Milpitas, CA

$32/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Process Engineering Technician
Location: Milpitas, CA
Shift: 1st Shift | Monday–Friday | 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Pay: $32/hour

Overview:

We are seeking a Process Engineering Technician to support production and manufacturing engineering in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Think of this role as a junior Manufacturing Engineer—you'll work alongside engineers to troubleshoot production issues, identify root causes, and implement process improvements that keep manufacturing running efficiently.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys problem-solving, collaborating with multiple teams, and taking a proactive approach to improving manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Partner with Process Engineers to troubleshoot and resolve production issues involving equipment, materials, tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing processes.
  • Perform root cause analysis (RCA) to identify recurring production problems and recommend corrective actions.
  • Set up and support production equipment, process trials, and engineering test runs.
  • Collect and analyze production data, documenting results and communicating findings to engineering teams.
  • Monitor manufacturing processes and provide guidance to production operators to improve quality and efficiency.
  • Serve as a liaison between engineering, production, and operations, communicating technical information in a clear and practical way.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives to increase yield, reduce downtime, and improve overall process performance.
  • Assist with developing and updating work instructions, process documentation, and training materials.
Qualifications:
  • Associate degree, technical training, or equivalent hands-on manufacturing experience.
  • Experience in manufacturing, production, process engineering, engineering technician, or similar environments.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to investigate production issues and perform root cause analysis.
  • Comfortable working with computers and manufacturing software (Windows, Linux, or similar systems).
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to work across multiple departments.
  • Detail-oriented, process-driven, and proactive with a willingness to learn.
  • Comfortable speaking up, identifying issues, and helping drive solutions.
Why Join Us:
  • Work alongside experienced engineers on real manufacturing challenges.
  • Gain hands-on experience in process engineering and continuous improvement.
  • Collaborative team environment with opportunities to learn and grow.
  • Excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a career in manufacturing or process engineering.


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.