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Process Improvement Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Amat

Director, Process Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$189K - $260K/yr

... alpha engineering program regarding all process technology related issues for the unit's product line Lead for alpha and beta product release for business unit's product line Interacts and offers ...

IDEMIA

Manufacturing Process Improvement Supervisor

CA · On-site

$96K - $129K/yr

Utilize Lean Manufacturing tools to drive improvement (SIM, 5S, Kaizen, SMED, TPM, Poka Yoke, PDCA ... Bachelor's Degree in industrial engineering * Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing. Green or Black ...

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Process Improvement Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$112K

How much do process improvement engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process improvement engineer?

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.

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 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.

Is process improvement engineering in demand?

Process Improvement Engineers are in demand across various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, as companies seek to optimize efficiency and reduce costs. Skills in methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and data analysis increase employability, and the role often requires certifications and experience with process modeling tools. The demand is expected to grow as organizations prioritize operational excellence.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,422 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Continuous Improvement Engineer II

Zone 5 Technologies

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$85K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

TheContinuous ImprovementEngineer IIindependently owns manufacturing processes for assigned assemblies or production areas. This role balances quality, schedule, and cost while supporting scalable production of UAV systems. Tasks and responsibilities expected for this role include those captured by lower role specific levels.

This role involves working closely with engineers,production technicians, and operations teams to supportmultiple programs and value streams.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations  
  • Collect and analyze production data to identify and implement process improvements 
  • Independently support production issue resolution 
  • Develop capacity planning and production planning strategies 
  • Lead assembly line, workstation, and facility layout improvement projects 
  • Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing tools and methods such as 5S, standardized work, and kanban systems 
  • Facilitate Kaizen events and other root cause analysis activities   
  • Lead and drive improvements in material flow design, inventory management, and MES processes  
  • Provide Lean training and mentorship for team members on topics such as Toyota Kata, TWI, and overall business process improvement 
  • Lead supplier assessments and audits  
  • Follow AS9100, safety, and configuration control requirements 

Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor's degree in industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (or equivalent experience) 
  • 2-5 years of industrial, manufacturing, or continuous improvement experience 
  • Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and production systems  
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, preferred 
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and methods including flow, layout, assembly, and production equipment 
  • Experience leading process improvement projects in a manufacturing environment  
  • Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as Excel, Power BI, Visio, or similar software preferred  
  • Working knowledge of structured problem-solving tools, including A3 thinking, root cause analysis, 5 Why's, Fishbone diagrams, fault tree analysis, and PDCA 
  • Working knowledge of statistical analysis and process capability methods, preferred  
  • Strong analytical, communication, facilitation, and problem-solving skills  
  • Demonstrated leadership and continuous improvement mindset  

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