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Process Engineering Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

In this position, you will apply process improvement (PI), engineering methodologies, and principles to effectively improve and align Enterprise-level processes. Facilitates project teams in ...

In this position, you will apply process improvement (PI), engineering methodologies, and principles to effectively improve and align Enterprise-level processes. Facilitates project teams in ...

In this position, you will apply process improvement (PI), engineering methodologies, and principles to effectively improve and align Enterprise-level processes. Facilitates project teams in ...

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in biotech or pharmaceutical process engineering, with a focus on upstream, downstream or cell therapy operations. Key Responsibilities Support the ...

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in biotech or pharmaceutical process engineering, with a focus on upstream, downstream or cell therapy operations. Key Responsibilities Support the ...

Familiarity with Process engineering across all phases of acquisition identifying best practices ... change management, business management techniques, organizational development, activity and data ...

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in biotech or pharmaceutical process engineering, with a focus on upstream, downstream or cell therapy operations. Key Responsibilities • Support the ...

This role is responsible for developing engineering talent, driving process stability and yield improvement, and establishing scalable engineering systems that support operational excellence ...

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Showing results 1-20

Process Engineering information

See Washington, DC salary details

$52.7K

$98.1K

$151.9K

How much do process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineering in Washington, DC is $98,058.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,400.00 and $109,800.00 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 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 other engineering teams and adherence to safety and environmental regulations.

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 job categories do people searching Process Engineering jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Process Engineering jobs in Washington, DC are:
Executive Director, Process Engineering

Executive Director, Process Engineering

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


AstraZeneca rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 71 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

If you have the passion and the drive to accelerate growth and make people's lives better - then AstraZeneca is the place for you. In Operations we have a big ambition - to deliver more medicines to patients, quicker and more affordably. Backed by the investment, leadership and a clear plan to get there, we bring personal dedication and out of the box thinking.
AstraZeneca turns molecules to medicines, bringing our Research & Development pipeline to life through a rigorous process of development, manufacturing, testing and delivery. Operations is accelerating, fast. We are on track for Our Bold Ambition 2030, delivering 15+ new medicines driving us forward across different modalities including biologics, cell therapy, ADCs and small molecules.
Position Summary
We are looking for an experienced Executive Director of Process Engineering to lead our cell therapy process engineering team. The Executive Director will oversee the design, scale-up, and optimization of cell therapy manufacturing processes. This is a new leadership position responsible for building out a team. You will help ensure that our cell therapy products are manufactured, cost-effectively, from early development through commercialization.
The Executive Director will collaborate with teams, including R&D, Quality, Manufacturing, and Regulatory Affairs, to the successful development of process engineering solutions. We are looking for an understanding of cell therapy manufacturing, advanced process technologies, and regulatory requirements, and experience in leadership. You will report to the Vice president of Analytical and Process Development. The position can be based in Gaithersburg, MD or Santa Monica, CA.
Responsibilities
  • Lead the Late-Stage Process Development function for Cell Therapies within the CTO, managing multiple development projects across several locations.
  • Create and deploy global technical standards for cell therapy, focusing on process validation, sterility assurance, raw materials, single-use technology, and packaging, all within established quality systems.
  • Design and oversee process validation, qualification, and monitoring strategies, implementing master validation plans for processes, equipment, and facilities in collaboration with Subject Matter Experts.
  • Build and manage a multi-site organization that supports the product portfolio, ensuring efficient processes, knowledge exchange, and integration of lessons learned.
  • Oversee resource allocation and make strategic "make vs. buy" decisions based on project priorities and technology strategies, adhering to CTO CGT governance processes.
  • Drive innovation by integrating internal and external expertise, incorporating the latest technologies, and leading digital programs aligned with CTO CGT strategies.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations (e.g., ISEC, GMP, HSE), and manage regulatory submissions, including the creation of source documents and dossier modules.
  • Provide technical leadership for developing new and improved processes for high-quality cell therapy production.
  • Author and review regulatory CMC packages for IND filings and approval applications (BLA/MAA/NDA).
  • Address process development inquiries from health authorities during global product filings and approvals.
  • Oversee and ensure the delivery of process development, qualification, and transfer from Process Development to Operations for GMP manufacturing of clinical and commercial cell therapy products.
  • Fulfil all post-approval commitments for commercial products to health authorities.

Preferred Requirements
  • Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or a related field, or a Master's degree with relevant industry experience.
  • 10+ years of experience in process engineering preferred, with at least 10 years in a leadership role within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry with a focus on cell therapy or biologics.
  • Experience in cell therapy or biologics manufacturing, including process design, scale-up, and optimization.

Skills and Competencies
  • Knowledge in GxP compliance and data integrity.
  • Proven track record in managing and leading a large, high-performing team (30+ members) with preferred expertise in CAR-T and human stem cell therapies, biologics, process development, transfer, validation, and automation.
  • Demonstrated ability in developing value-added manufacturing processes from scratch.
  • Diversified experience in a wide spectrum of CMC development suitable for adequately producing cell therapeutics.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we fuel bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the Gaithersburg, MD or Santa Monica, CA office. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $269,000 to $328,900. However, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related experience. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and we reserve the right to modify base salary (and any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
Date Posted
05-Sep-2024
Closing Date
Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.
AstraZeneca requires all US employees to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 but will consider requests for reasonable accommodations as required by applicable law.

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