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Process Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

This role is designed for a processing engineer with several years of industrial experience in a ... Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or ...

This role is designed for a processing engineer with several years of industrial experience in a ... Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or ...

This role is designed for a processing engineer with several years of industrial experience in a ... Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or ...

As a Process Engineer , you'll play a vital role in developing, implementing, and improving ... You will work closely with cross-functional teams-engineering, quality, operations, and maintenance ...

Support capital projects and startups, including the ten core Process Engineering competencies * Develop process simulation models to fundamentally understand and benchmark performance * Partner with ...

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or related field) required * 5+ years of hands-on manufacturing or process engineering experience in a production environment

Process Engineer, Manufacturing

Decorah, IA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

Requirements · Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or related field) required · 5+ years of hands-on manufacturing or process engineering experience in a ...

Process Engineer, Manufacturing

Decorah, IA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or related field) required 5+ years of hands-on manufacturing or process engineering experience in a production ...

Process Engineer, Manufacturing

Decorah, IA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

Requirements • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or related field) required • 5+ years of hands-on manufacturing or process engineering experience in a ...

Support capital projects and startups, including the ten core Process Engineering competencies * Develop process simulation models to fundamentally understand and benchmark performance * Partner with ...

Plant Process Engineer - Clinton, IA This is an exempt level position. Position Summary: The Plant ... Drive standards for engineering excellence to new levels; capture and propagate best practices

Minimum of 4+ years previous Process Engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.In ... absence of degree, 8+ years of demonstrated continuous improvement experience in a manufacturing ...

Process Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Process optimization with focus on high risk/process failure areas with a focus on troubleshooting ... Perform assignments requiring use and application of standard engineering economics and product ...

Process optimization with focus on high risk/process failure areas with a focus on troubleshooting ... Perform assignments requiring use and application of standard engineering economics and product ...

Showing results 41-60

Process Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$86.4K

$133.8K

How much do process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineering in Iowa is $86,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $96,700.00 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 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 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.

Are process engineers in demand?

Process engineers are in high demand across manufacturing, chemical, and energy industries due to their role in optimizing production processes and improving efficiency. Strong skills in process simulation, automation, and safety standards increase employability, and the field offers steady job growth with opportunities for advancement.

How much does a process engineer get paid?

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

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.
Infographic showing various Process Engineering job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,429 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Plant Process Engineer Intern - Summer 2027

Pella Corporation

Pella, IA • On-site

$27.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Pella rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 546 rated manufacturers


Job description

Plant Process Engineering Intern - Summer 2027
Program Duration: End of May - Early August
Location: Macomb, IL (on-site)

Pella Corporation is seeking motivated engineering students for our Plant Process Engineering Internship at our manufacturing facility in Macomb, IL.

This internship provides hands-on experience working on real manufacturing challenges and improvement opportunities. Interns collaborate with engineers, operations leaders, and production teams to improve processes, reduce waste, increase efficiency, and support manufacturing initiatives.

If you're interested in applying engineering principles in a manufacturing environment, leading meaningful projects, and gaining experience similar to that of an entry-level engineer, we'd love to connect with you.

Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline. Preferred majors are listed above.
  • Strong academic standing
  • Demonstrated leadership, teamwork, or involvement through campus organizations, work experience, athletics, volunteer activities, or other experiences
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
  • Experience with CAD software such as Solid Edge, AutoCAD, or similar platforms preferred
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Experience leading projects, initiatives, or team efforts from planning through execution preferred
  • Ability to succeed in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Compensation: The starting pay rate for this position is $27.90 per hour. Compensation for this role is established through Pella Corporation's internship program. Eligible participants may receive transition assistance in accordance with company policies and program guidelines.

Pella Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to workforce diversity. Pella is a Smoke Free Environment. 

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:

Pella Corporation is committed to workforce diversity. Pella is a Tobacco-Free Work Environment.  Post-offer background check and drug screen required.  Pella participates in E- Verify.  Pella will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:

Pella Corporation provides a working environment free of discrimination and harassment.  Pella Corporation treats all persons equally, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or disability, as each is protected under federal law. Several states in which Pella operates have laws protecting classifications of Team Members not necessarily protected under federal law. Therefore, Pella also treats all persons equally, regardless of political affiliation and belief, pregnancy, national origin, age, creed, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, mental disorder, veteran status, ancestry or handicap as each category is protected under a municipal ordinance or state law. 

Responsibilities

As a Plant Process Engineering Intern, you will support manufacturing operations through project work focused on process improvement, problem solving, quality enhancement, and operational efficiency. Interns are given ownership of meaningful projects and work alongside experienced engineers and mentors to develop technical, professional, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities are similar to what we expect of entry-level engineers who join Pella after graduation.

As a Plant Process Engineering Intern, you may:

  • Modify and improve manufacturing processes to improve quality, increase reliability, reduce costs, and eliminate waste
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives using problem-solving and engineering methodologies
  • Develop or enhance manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling
  • Specify, design, and procure equipment required to support manufacturing and new product initiatives
  • Implement new processes from concept through production
  • Analyze manufacturing data and recommend solutions that improve operational performance
  • Partner with engineering, operations, maintenance, quality, and other cross-functional teams to support business objectives

Preferred Degree Areas

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Agricultural Engineering
  • Industrial Technology
  • Other related engineering disciplines

What Pella employees say

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About Pella

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pella Corporation, headquartered in Pella, IA, is an innovative leader in creating a better view for homes and businesses by designing, testing, manufacturing, and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling, and replacement applications. Founded in 1925, Pella is a family-owned and professionally managed privately held company, known for its history of innovation, making outstanding products, providing quality service, and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship.

Industry

Building materials and garden equipment dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pella, IA, US

Year founded

1925