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Process Engineering Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Process Support Engineer II

Manassas, VA · On-site

$86K - $119K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... As a Process Support Engineer (PSE), you'll play a critical role in guiding products through their ...

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... As a Process Support Engineer (PSE), you'll play a critical role in guiding products through their ...

Process Engineer (PE2) Salary: Up to $172,500, based on education and experience Security ... A Bachelor's degree in in Math, Science, Engineering, Statistics, Engineering Management or related ...

You will apply process improvement (Pl), engineering methodologies, and principles to effectively improve and align Enterprise-level processes; facilitate project teams in accomplishing project ...

Process Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

You will apply process improvement (Pl), engineering methodologies, and principles to effectively improve and align Enterprise-level processes; facilitate project teams in accomplishing project ...

You will apply process improvement (Pl), engineering methodologies, and principles to effectively improve and align Enterprise-level processes; facilitate project teams in accomplishing project ...

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Showing results 1-20

Process Engineering information

See Washington, DC salary details

$56.1K

$104.2K

$161.4K

How much do process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineering in Washington, DC is $104,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $116,700.00 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.
Infographic showing various Process Engineering job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,219 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Quality Agents, LLC

Rockville, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Quality Agents, LLC offers validation and quality expertise to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
We are seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative Process Engineer to support manufacturing and technical operations in a dynamic biotech environment. This role plays a key part in optimizing existing processes, implementing new technologies, and ensuring consistent, compliant production of clinical and commercial biologics.
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 design, scale-up, optimization, and validation of biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
• Assist in tech transfer activities for new products or process changes.
• Develop and revise process documentation including batch records, SOPs, and protocols.
• Investigate and troubleshoot process deviations, equipment issues, and production challenges.
• Analyze process data and identify opportunities for improvement in yield, efficiency, or quality.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with QA, QC, Manufacturing, and Engineering teams.
• Support commissioning, qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), and validation activities for equipment and systems.
• Ensure all work aligns with GMP and regulatory requirements.
Minimum Requirements:
• B.S. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in a biotech, pharmaceutical, or GMP-regulated environment.
• Familiarity with upstream (cell culture/fermentation) or downstream (purification) processes.
• Experience with process monitoring, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Working knowledge of industry guidelines (GMP, ICH, FDA).
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
Quality Agents offers a full suite of benefits for full-time employees including:
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Life, AD&D and Disability Insurance
• Health savings account for participants in our health plan
• 401k retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
Quality Agents accepts applications on an on-going basis in order to build a talent pool of potential candidates. These applications remain open for consideration, as positions become available, for one (1) year from the date of application. After that time, or if your application information changes, please submit your application again.