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Process Improvement Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ventura Foods

Process Improvement Engineer

Ontario, CA

$103K - $134K/yr

Mentoring plant leadership on process improvement projects. Engaging the teams on the CI mindset and helping the entire area start to shift the mindset to more lean manufacturing. * The Opex Engineer ...

Ventura Foods

Process Improvement Engineer

Ontario, CA · On-site

$103K - $134K/yr

Mentoring plant leadership on process improvement projects. Engaging the teams on the CI mindset and helping the entire area start to shift the mindset to more lean manufacturing. * The Opex Engineer ...

mlp

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Stockton, CA

$78K - $90K/yr

This role focuses on implementing Lean and process improvement methodologies within a manufacturing ... Partner with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve flow, yield, and first-pass ...

mlp

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Stockton, CA

$78K - $90K/yr

This role focuses on implementing Lean and process improvement methodologies within a manufacturing ... Partner with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve flow, yield, and first-pass ...

mlp

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Stockton, CA

$78K - $90K/yr

This role focuses on implementing Lean and process improvement methodologies within a manufacturing ... Partner with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve flow, yield, and first-pass ...

Velo3D

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Collaborate with AM process engineers to establish and maintain process parameter baselines, ensuring builds run to proven recipes with minimal variation. * Support post-process improvement ...

Bausch+Lomb Companies Inc.

$118K/yr

... process optimization, waste reduction, and continuous improvement initiatives within a ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, or a related field. 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing ...

Velo3D

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Collaborate with AM process engineers to establish and maintain process parameter baselines, ensuring builds run to proven recipes with minimal variation. * Support post-process improvement ...

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All JobsProcess Improvement Engineer JobsProcess Improvement Engineer Jobs in California

Process Improvement Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$112K

How much do process improvement engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for process improvement engineer in California is $107,422.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most process improvement engineers earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, highly experienced professionals in specialized industries or leadership roles can reach or exceed $500,000 per year, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such compensation levels are rare and typically involve senior management, executive positions, or engineers working in high-demand sectors like aerospace, technology, or manufacturing with advanced certifications and extensive expertise.

What are some common challenges Process Improvement Engineers face when implementing changes within an organization?

Process Improvement Engineers often encounter resistance to change from staff who are accustomed to established procedures. Gaining stakeholder buy-in is crucial, as is effectively communicating the benefits of new processes. Navigating limited resources, prioritizing projects, and maintaining improvements over time are also typical challenges. Successful engineers are adept at change management, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to overcome these obstacles and drive continuous improvement.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

What is the difference between Process Improvement Engineer vs Quality Engineer?

AspectProcess Improvement EngineerQuality Engineer
Primary FocusOptimizing processes to increase efficiency and reduce wasteEnsuring product or service quality meets standards
CertificationsLean, Six Sigma, KaizenISO, Six Sigma, Quality Management certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial, or corporate settingsManufacturing, healthcare, software, or service industries
Common EmployerManufacturers, industrial firms, consulting companiesManufacturers, healthcare providers, tech companies

While both roles aim to improve organizational performance, Process Improvement Engineers focus on streamlining processes and reducing inefficiencies, whereas Quality Engineers concentrate on maintaining and improving product or service quality. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Process Improvement Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Improvement Engineer, you need a strong background in industrial engineering, process analysis, and data-driven problem-solving, often supported by a relevant degree and Lean Six Sigma certification. Familiarity with process mapping tools, statistical analysis software, and continuous improvement methodologies is typically required. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively and drive change. These competencies are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, implementing effective solutions, and ensuring sustained operational excellence.

Are process engineers in high demand?

Process Improvement Engineers are in high demand across manufacturing, healthcare, and technology sectors due to their role in optimizing operations and reducing costs. Employers seek candidates with skills in data analysis, Lean, Six Sigma, and process modeling tools, and the profession generally offers strong job growth prospects.

What does a process improvement engineer do?

A process improvement engineer analyzes and redesigns business processes to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality. They use tools like Six Sigma, Lean, and data analysis to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions, often working closely with cross-functional teams in manufacturing, healthcare, or service industries.

What is a Process Improvement Engineer?

A Process Improvement Engineer is a professional who analyzes and optimizes business processes to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality within an organization. They use methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and workflow analysis to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions that streamline operations. These engineers work across various industries, collaborating with different departments to drive continuous improvement and ensure processes are cost-effective and meet organizational goals.
What are popular job titles related to Process Improvement Engineer jobs in California? For Process Improvement Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Improvement Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Process Improvement Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Improvement Engineer jobs in CA? For Process Improvement Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Process Improvement Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Improvement Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,422 per year, or $51.6 per hour.
Process Improvement Engineer

Process Improvement Engineer

Ventura Foods

Ontario, CA

$103K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Ventura Foods rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

205th of 382 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

​Location: Ontario
Employment Type: Salaried
Work Arrangement: Onsite 

Position Summary:

The Process Lead owns all continuous improvement activities for their assigned area. Is the subject matter expert around centerlines for the area. The role must have technical and analytical skills to be able to collect and analyze line data to identify and prioritize loss elimination opportunities. The opex engineer leads continuous improvement initiatives, leads root cause problem solving efforts on chronic losses, and identifies & prioritizes projects in their area in collaboration with the Area Manager. This role coaches the operations team to improve the overall area and updates standards as improvements are made. Overall, this position helps implement the strategic plan for their assigned area in pursuit of lean manufacturing thus lowering overall production costs and improving efficiency. 

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop, lead, execute, sustain, and standardize major process improvement projects. These include focus improvement projects, Kaizen events, documenting Standard Work & establishing centerlines. 
  • Mentoring plant leadership on process improvement projects. Engaging the teams on the CI mindset and helping the entire area start to shift the mindset to more lean manufacturing. 
  • The Opex Engineer will be the adminstrator of the RedZone program and provide orientation to new hires on the RedZone program. The Process Lead will also develop, coordinate, and train employees in various lean/sigma manufacturing techniques.
  • Daily direction setting for this role will be provided by the Area Manager who will work closely with the opex engineer and opex manager on the area needs.
  • Attending specified meetings.
  • Build a pipeline of projects for major process improvement and helping the area manager and opex manager priortize the work in the assigned area. 
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or a related field or 2–3 years of Lean experience in a complex manufacturing environment
  • Demonstrated experience leading Kaizen workshops, including 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, Daily Management, SMED, and OEE gap‑closure initiatives
  • Six Sigma certification preferred
  • Experience in food manufacturing is strongly preferred
  • Background in maintenance, manufacturing, engineering, QA, or QS is beneficial
Knowledge and Skills:
  • Proven ability to lead Kaizen and continuous improvement events resulting in measurable process and cost‑savings improvements
  • Strong analytical skills with experience using data tools such as downtime tracking, statistical analysis, mechanical history, and project planning to identify performance gaps
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, charts, formulas, data analysis) and overall MS Office applications
  • Experience with RedZone or similar digital performance/OEE systems, including interpreting data and leveraging insights to drive improvement
  • Ability to quickly learn complex production processes and translate operational data into actionable improvements
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a matrixed environment and lead cross‑functional teams
  • Creative problem‑solver with the ability to develop innovative approaches to resolve complex operational challenges
  • Ability to teach and coach Lean/CI concepts across the plant to support adoption and sustainment

Why Join Us:
Ventura Foods offers career growth opportunities as well as competitive compensation and benefits:​

  • Medical, Prescription, Dental, & Vision – coverage beginning on your 1st day for eligible employees​
  • Profit Sharing and 401(k) matching (after eligible criteria is met)​
  • Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Holidays​
  • Employee Appreciation Events​ and Employee Assistance Programs
  • Salary Base Range of $103,685.00 - $134,453.55*

*The “base salary range” provided above is a good faith estimate of what we expect to pay for this position in the specified markets.  Ventura Foods reserves the right to pay outside of the given range based on a variety of factors including but not limited to: candidate skills and experience, complexity of the job, budgetary factors, and location/geography.  Ventura Foods conducts regular reviews of compensation ranges and therefore reserves the right to alter this range at any given time.  

Physical Demands:
All jobs require sufficient physical strength and dexterity to perform the required task(s) and typically also require at a minimum: intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.  Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds or more with assistance may also be required.  Please see the job description for specific requirements.

Work Environment:

Please see the job description for specific requirements of the position for which you are applying.

Typical shifts are 8-12 hours per day.   Additional unscheduled time after hours and on weekends may also be required.  Employees must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by Company policy and/or legal requirements.  In addition, certain jobs may require employees to:

  • Work outside and/or in adverse temperatures which could include extreme heat, cold, and humidity;
  • Be exposed to vibrations, chemicals used in operations, fumes and food allergens (may include soy, dairy and other allergens); and
  • Be required to work in confined and dark spaces, and at heights in excess of 18 feet.

Diversity & Inclusion:
Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive environment in which all employees are treated with respect is evident in our company culture and values.  We believe that fostering an environment of inclusion and a focus on diversity across our organization is vital to attracting top talent, driving innovation, and meeting the high expectations of our customers in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.

Ventura Foods is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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