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Process Engineering Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Process ownership: demonstrated leadership in the assigned group of processes. * Engineering project management: develop and lead manufacturing engineering project. Manage schedule, budget and spec.

Civil Design Engineer

Spokane Valley, WA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of ... processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company ...

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Process Engineering information

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$50K

$93K

$144.1K

How much do process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineering in Spokane, WA is $93,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,300.00 and $104,100.00 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 popular job titles related to Process Engineering jobs in Spokane, WA? For Process Engineering jobs in Spokane, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Engineering jobs in Spokane, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Process Engineering jobs in Spokane, WA are:
What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Process Engineering jobs? Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Process Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Engineering job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,041 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Automation & Controls Engineer - Manufacturing Support

Kaiser Aluminum

Spokane, WA • On-site

$70K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Kaiser Aluminum rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

REPORTS TO: Process Improvement Engineering Manager

FLSA STATUS: Salaried -Exempt

SUPERVISES: None

Benefits

  • Salary range $70,000 to $125,000 commensurate with experience
  • High deductible medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, including spouse and children (modest payroll deductions)
  • 10 paid holidays per year
  • Vacation (3 weeks starting out)
  • Supplemental leave (used in conjunction with Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave)
  • 401K with matching company funds
  • Quarterly bonus structure
  • Tuition reimbursement

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Manufacturing Support Automation & Controls Engineer reports to the Process Improvement Engineering Manager This position supports/leads flow team directed Manufacturing Excellence activities being conducted at the Trentwood facilities. This position works with facilitators, engineers, manufacturing leaders, craft personnel and operators, as needed with the goal of improving process capability, lowering manufacturing cost, increasing reliability and reducing waste in the operation.

The successful Manufacturing Support Engineer will:

  • Validate and maintain control system design/architecture for new and existing equipment.
  • Provide support and coordination for equipment start-ups and maintenance outages.
  • Assist in trouble-shooting equipment control and electrical systems.
  • Provide engineering support for the maintenance and operations resources during troubleshooting and RCA activities.
  • Perform controlled process improvement changes in PLC systems, HMI systems, and in level 2 server and coordination systems.
  • Coordinate with vendors, process engineers, and production personnel for continuous improvement.
  • Develop project scope, feasibility, cost estimates, and schedule, for assigned projects.
  • Prepare, organize, and update project documentation (Manuals, PM's spare parts, correspondence, drawings, drawing lists, material listings, etc.)
  • Help support and develop a culture at Kaiser Trentwood that promotes lean thinking and right first time for all work performed.
  • Collaborates with the operational team to develop and report performance metrics against targets to determine gaps in performance and recommends/executes improvement initiatives.
  • Advise the team on improvement opportunities through requirements gathering, data extraction/transformation, organized analysis and effective visualization of information.
  • Drive process consistency through standard work, process control, right first time, and management of change.
  • Comply with all safety, quality and environmental regulations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Approximately 50% of the job function is performed in an office setting requiring normal safety precautions. 50% of the job function is in the plant. There is exposure to operating machinery and a manufacturing environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • This position requires performing tasks on a computer.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • The employee is frequently required to use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and climb or balance. There will be periods of walking and standing. The employee must talk and hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to reach with arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION

  • An undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • A degree in Computer Engineering combined with industrial experience may substitute for the Electrical Engineering degree.
  • An undergraduate degree in ME Automation with sufficient coursework in automation/robotics may also substitute.

EXPERIENCE

This individual will possess:

  • 0-5 years previous electrical engineering experience.
  • Experience with industrial PLC systems, HMI systems or distributed control systems, or relevant laboratory education
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong PC skills, including Windows, Word, and Excel.
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and organizational skills.
  • Proven ability to work in teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

The preferred candidate will have knowledge and experience with:

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in the maintenance department of a heavy industrial facility.
  • Familiarity with database tools and techniques.
  • Programming experience. (Python preferred)
  • Familiarity with CMMS software (MAXIMO preferred).
  • Knowledge of National Electrical Code, AC & DC motors

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

This individual will:

  • Be energetic, disciplined and focused on a team building operational organization.
  • Have well developed interpersonal and business partnering skills, with the ability to quickly adapt to, be accepted by, and interrelate with the organization at all levels.
  • Be willing to work flexible hours.
  • Be self-motivated, self-learning, and willing to educate themselves and others in a changing environment.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

  • Refer to training matrix on file with Quality Department.

PERFORMANCE FACTORS

  • Attendance and Dependability: The employee can be depended upon to report to work at the scheduled time and is seldom absent from work. Employee can be depended upon to complete work in a timely, accurate, and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.
  • Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Company.
  • Relationships with Others: The employee works effectively and relates well with others including superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Company. The employee exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others and works to maintain constructive working relationships.

No third party candidate submissions are being accepted at this time for this opening.

This position has been determined to be a safety-sensitive position and requires a pre-employment drug and alcohol screen that includesmarijuana.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered based on job-related qualifications and abilities. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

About Kaiser Aluminum: Talented people join our team because we are a company passionate about environmental sustainability, employee growth, contributing back to our communities and championing an inclusive culture.


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