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Process Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$122K - $227K/yr

Material Process Engineer Job Code: 40269 Job Location: On-site at our Canoga Park, CA facility Job Schedule: 9/80 Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every ...

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

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

Head of Process Engineering

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$170K - $240K/yr

Drive cross-disciplinary integration between process engineering, mechanical design, facilities and construction teams. * Oversee the development of plant systems, layouts, detailed routing and ...

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products, within safety ...

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... wide range of complex process engineering experiments for multiple products, within safety ...

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Showing results 1-20

Process Engineering information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 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.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior process engineers, petroleum engineers, and certain aerospace engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-paying industries. These roles often require specialized skills, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities.

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 through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership or managerial responsibilities.

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.

Is process engineering well paid?

Process engineering is generally a well-paying profession, with salaries often above the national average for engineering roles. Compensation varies based on experience, industry, location, and certifications such as Six Sigma or process simulation tools, but it typically offers competitive wages and benefits.

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 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:
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, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Lead, Material Process Engineering

L3HHCM20

$122K - $227K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Material Process Engineer 

Job Code: 40269

Job Location:  On-site at our Canoga Park, CA facility

Job Schedule: 9/80  Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

We are seeking a talented Material Process Engineer to join our Missile Solutions team at our Canoga Park facility. In this role, you'll support critical aerospace and defense programs, including the RS-25 rocket engine and advanced missile systems that protect national security. You'll develop and optimize manufacturing processes for mission-critical components, working alongside industry-leading engineers in a dynamic environment where your expertise directly impacts product quality and mission success. If you're passionate about aerospace and defense innovation and want to make a meaningful contribution to programs that matter, we want to hear from you-apply today to join our team!

Essential Functions:

  • Develop, qualify, and optimize manufacturing processes for aerospace and defense metallic materials including titanium alloys, nickel-based superalloys, stainless steels, high-strength steels, and aluminum alloys used in propulsion and missile system components
  • Support production operations by troubleshooting process issues, implementing corrective actions, and driving continuous improvement initiatives Collaborate with design engineering, quality, and manufacturing teams to ensure producibility and cost-effectiveness across multiple defense programs
  • Conduct failure analysis and root cause investigations on non-conforming materials and processes
  • Create and maintain process specifications, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation in compliance with program requirements
  • Interface with suppliers to conduct engineering process approvals and support resolution of hardware quality issues
  • Lead process validation activities and process capability studies to ensure manufacturing readiness
  • Support new product introduction (NPI) activities from design review through production release
  • Travel up to 25% to supplier facilities and other company locations as required

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 9 years of prior relevant engineering experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related engineering experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related engineering experience. 

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • 5-9 years of experience in materials engineering or manufacturing process engineering within aerospace, defense, or related high-reliability industries 
  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, or related engineering discipline
  • Understanding and demonstrated experience of special processes (welding, heat treat, plating, shot peening, etc.) and their qualification requirements
  • Familiar with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods (ultrasonic, radiographic, penetrant, magnetic particle) 
  • Knowledge of aerospace materials including titanium alloys, nickel-based superalloys, stainless steels, high-strength steels, and aluminum alloy
  • Experience with additive manufacturing (3D printing) of metal components
  • Experience with metallurgical testing and characterization techniques 
  • Knowledge of material specifications and standards (AMS, ASTM, MIL-SPEC) 
  • Experience with metallography and microstructural analysis
  • Familiarity with material traceability and certification requirements
  • Experience with materials selection and design for manufacturability (DFM)
  • Knowledge of rocket engine, turbomachinery, or missile system manufacturing processes
  • Knowledge of corrosion mechanisms and prevention methods in aerospace applications
  • Experience with process FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis)
  • Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) and Six Sigma methodologies
  • Experience with Microsoft Project or other project management software
  • Familiarity with AS9100, NADCAP, or other aerospace quality management systems
  • Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California is $122,000 - $227,000. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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