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Process Engineering Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

J&J Snack Foods

Process Engineering Lead

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

As a leader and innovator in the snack food industry for over 50 years, J&J Snack Foods provides branded snack foods to foodservice and retail supermarket outlets across the U.S. Its products include

J&J Snack Foods

Process Engineering Lead

La Vergne, TN

$98K - $127K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY: Reporting to the VP of Engineering, the Process Engineering Lead is responsible for leading process design, commercialization, and continuous improvement initiatives across bakery

X Energy LLC

Process Engineering Team Lead

Oak Ridge, TN

$99K - $128K/yr

X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company

X Energy LLC

Process Engineering Team Lead

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company

ERMCO

Process Engineer

Dyersburg, TN

About Ermco Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) is the leading manufacturer of distribution transformers and engineered electrical solutions, serving electric utilities,

Pro2Serve

Process Engineer IV

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Pro2Serve is an Equal Opportunity Employer (Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans). To read more about this, view the EEO is the Law poster and this EEO is the Law Poster Supplement Pay Transparency

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All JobsProcess Engineering JobsProcess Engineering Jobs in Tennessee

Process Engineering information

See Tennessee salary details

$44.9K

$83.5K

$129.3K

How much do process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineering in Tennessee is $83,517.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,600.00 and $93,500.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Process Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Engineering jobs in Tennessee? For Process Engineering jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Engineering jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Process Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Process Engineering jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Process Engineering job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Process Engineering jobs in TN? For Process Engineering jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Process Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Engineering job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,517 per year, or $40.2 per hour.
Process Engineering Lead

Process Engineering Lead

J&J Snack Foods

La Vergne, TN • On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

J&J Snack Foods rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

341st of 432 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

As a leader and innovator in the snack food industry for over 50 years, J&J Snack Foods provides branded snack foods to foodservice and retail supermarket outlets across the U.S. Its products include such icons as SUPERPRETZEL, ICEE, and Dippin' Dots along with other key brands like LUIGI'S Real Italian Ice, The Funnel Cake Factory Funnel Cakes, and Hola Churros. J&J also has a strong presence in bakery providing cakes, cookies, and pies to some of the largest grocery and convenience retailers in industry. Our company continues to deliver record sales led by a talented team and a commitment to "Fun Served Here".
POSITION SUMMARY:
Reporting to the VP of Engineering, the Process Engineering Lead is responsible for leading process design, commercialization, and continuous improvement initiatives across bakery manufacturing operations. Leveraging deep expertise in dough systems, thermal processing, and high-speed production, this role ensures the successful scale-up of new products while optimizing efficiency, yield, and quality. The Process Engineering Lead partners closely with cross-functional teams to translate product innovation into reliable, high-performing manufacturing processes and leads capital projects from concept through startup to support business growth.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Bakery Process Design and Commercialization
  • Leads the transition of bakery products from pilot to full-scale production, encompassing mixing, proofing, forming, baking, cooling, slicing, and packaging operations.
  • Collaborates cross-functionally with R&D and Quality to ensure formulations are optimized for manufacturability, consistency, and food safety.
  • Establishes, validates, and documents critical process parameters, including mix times, hydration levels, fermentation profiles, oven curves, and moisture targets.
  • Drives and supports plant trials and the successful launch of new products and line extensions, ensuring seamless transition to production.

Capital Projects and Equipment Implementation
  • Leads process design for bakery capital projects, including PFDs, P&IDs, line layouts, equipment specifications, and cost estimates.
  • Specifies and implements bakery equipment such as mixers, dividers, proofers, tunnel ovens, conveyors, cooling systems, and packaging lines.
  • Oversees installation, commissioning, validation, and startup of new production lines and system upgrades.
  • Collaborates with contractors and vendors to deliver projects safely, on time, and within budget.

Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence
  • Drives improvements in yield, scrap reduction, downtime, and overall throughput.
  • Leads root cause analysis for bakery-specific issues, including crumb structure, moisture variation, bake profile inconsistencies, and equipment reliability.
  • Applies statistical tools, such as DOE and SPC, to improve process capability and consistency.
  • Champions Lean and Six Sigma initiatives across production lines.

Utilities and Thermal Systems
  • Provides engineering support for bakery utilities, including steam systems, ammonia refrigeration, compressed air, chilled water, and electrical infrastructure.
  • Supports optimization of thermal systems, including oven performance, heat transfer efficiency, and energy utilization.
  • Contributes to the development and improvement of preventive maintenance practices and process control systems, including PLC-based automation.
  • Performs other duties and special projects as assigned by the VP of Engineering.

COMPETENCIES:
To succeed in this role, the Process Engineering Lead must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively. The following knowledge, skills, and abilities are required:
  • Strong business acumen, with the ability to connect process improvements to cost, yield, and product quality outcomes.
  • Proven ability to optimize processes, improve yield, and ensure product quality and consistency.
  • Experience launching new products and translating formulations into scalable production.
  • Knowledge of capital project execution, including process design, equipment selection, and line startups.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, including root cause analysis and data-driven process improvement.
  • Ability to influence plant leadership and drive sustainable operational change.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Food, or related Engineering field.
  • Five (5)+ years of progressive experience in commercial bakery or thermal food manufacturing.
  • Lean / Six Sigma certification
  • Strong knowledge of dough rheology, fermentation, baking science, and moisture control.
  • Experience with high-speed automated production lines and packaging systems.
  • Proven experience leading capital projects collaborating cross-functionally.
  • Solid understanding of GMPs, HACCP, sanitary design, and food safety standards.
  • Experience with PLC systems (Allen Bradley preferred) and manufacturing automation.

TRAVEL:
This position is based in La Vergne, TN. Domestic travel is required to support projects and initiatives, with an expected travel commitment of approximately 30%, depending on business needs.
US Salary Pay Range
$120,000-$130,000 USD
Disclaimer: This position description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the team member. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
EEO Statement: J&J Snack Foods Corp.is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discriminatory employment actions against, and treatment of, employees and applicants for employment based on actual or perceived Federal, State and local laws that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, national origin, ethnicity, alienage, religion or creed, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship, genetic disposition or characteristics, disability or veteran's status, sex offenses, prior record of arrest or conviction, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristic, status as a victim or witness of domestic violence, sex offenses or stalking and unemployment status.

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