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Process Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Beyondmeat

Process Engineer

El Segundo, CA

Communicate process engineering learnings, results, and manufacturingcapabilities clearlyacross cross-functional commercialization teams. * CollaboratebetweenR&D and Operations teams on new and ...

Beyond Meat

Process Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

Communicate process engineering learnings, results, and manufacturing capabilities clearly across cross-functional commercialization teams. * Collaborate between R&D and Operations teams on new and ...

Kulicke & Soffa

Intern, WB Process Engineering

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

As a process engineering intern, you will work closely with senior process, systems engineers, and other functions on a variety of projects focusing on product viability, systems and process ...

Amat

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$147K - $202K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... As a Process Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in designing and optimizing manufacturing ...

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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 Jun 22, 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.

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.

How much is the salary of a process engineer?

The average salary of a process engineer varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually in many regions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like manufacturing, chemical, or oil and gas.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often with extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes stock options or bonuses. High-level managerial or executive engineering roles may also reach this compensation level, especially in large corporations or high-demand industries.

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 exactly does a process engineer do?

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. Their work often involves collaboration with production teams and adherence to safety and environmental regulations.

Are process engineers paid well?

Process engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by industry, experience, and location. According to industry data, the median annual salary for process engineers is often above the national average, with additional compensation possible through bonuses and benefits. Skills in process optimization, automation, and certifications can also influence earning potential.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Engineer, Biotech Process Engineering(JP10544)

Engineer, Biotech Process Engineering(JP10544)

3 Key Consulting

Thousand Oaks, CA • Hybrid

Other

Posted 13 hours ago

Job description

Job Title: Engineer, Biotech Process Engineering(JP10544)
Location: Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, (Hybrid, 2-3 days/week onsite)
Employment Type: Contract to Hire
Duration: 12 months with likely extensions or conversion to permanent
Job posting date: 7/12/2022
Note: Hybrid position. Candidate will be required to be on site half the week and may work remotely 1-2 days a week. Must have biotech background/experience, plus must have purification experience.
3 Key Consulting is hiring an Engineerfor a consulting engagement with our direct client, a leading global bio-pharmaceutical company.
Job Summary:
  • Seeking a Process Development Engineer to join the Drug Substance Technology Engineering team at our Thousand Oaks facility.
  • Providing process engineering support for human therapeutic products in clinical development through commercial production, our mission is to translate developmental processes to commercial reality for patients through scientific expertise and engineering innovation.
  • The Engineer will apply purification process engineering knowledge in support of technology transfer and clinical/commercial drug substance manufacturing in an innovative manufacturing suite using single-use technology. Will partner with manufacturing, quality, analytical, and bench scientists to support a highly dynamic manufacturing facility.
    JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
    Under guidance of senior staff, the Engineer performs the following:
  • Transfer purification drug substance processes and performs process improvements from the laboratory into the manufacturing facility
  • Provide technical support for successful scale-up, transfer of process technology, and for clinical and/or commercial manufacturing operation.
  • Offer process validation support for late-stage commercial processes.
  • Provide routine process monitoring and troubleshooting.
  • Execute data trending and statistical process analysis.
  • Support technical direction for process related deviations, CAPAs and change controls.
  • Identify and support process related operational excellence opportunities.
  • Represent process development and collaborates with other functions such as Manufacturing, Quality, and Regulatory
    BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Master's degree OR
  • Bachelor's degree OR
  • Associate's degree and 7 years of Engineering or Operations experience OR
  • High school diploma / GED and 8 years of Engineering or Operations experience
    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Master's Degree in Chemical or Biochemical Engineering
  • 1+ years of Process Engineering experience preferably related to scale-up principles and commercial cGMP manufacturing facilities
  • Background in biologics tech transfer into commercial facilities
  • Purification process knowledge:
    • Knowledge of purification processes/ equipment; scale up factors from, chromatography, UF/DF, process deviations, raw materials to growth and quality attributes
    • Strong capability of analysis, troubleshooting and problem solving
    • Ability to develop and follow detailed protocols
    • Independently motivated with ability to multi-task and work in teams
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with technical writing and presentation experience
Top Must have Skill Sets:
  • Must have biotech background/experience, plus must have purification experience.
  • Strong understanding of data analysis tools.
  • Knowledge of biologics purification processes/ equipment; scale up factors from, chromatography
  • 1+ years of Process Engineering experience preferably related to scale-up principles and commercial cGMP manufacturing facilities
  • Manufacturing experience must be biotech experience

Day-To-Day Responsibilities:
Staff will perform tech transfer of early clinical candidate molecules. In addition, staff will support all processes (clinical and commercial) executed in the facility, performing process monitoring and responding to issues as appropriate
Red Flags:
  • Multiple short duration jobs on resume
  • No purification experience - critical experience (Chromatography, purification, USTF)
  • Manufacturing experience - must be biotech experience
Interview Process:
Phone screen followed by Webex interview
We invite qualified candidates to sendyour resume toresumes@3keyconsulting.com. Ifyou decide that you're not interested in pursuing this position, please feel free to look at other positions on our websitewww.3keyconsulting.com. You are welcome to also sharethis posting withanyone you think might be interested in applying for this role.

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