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Senior Process Development Engineer Jobs in Berkeley, CA

5AM Ventures

Process Development Engineer

Emeryville, CA

$85K - $125K/yr

In this newly created role, as a Process Development Engineer I, you will work in close collaboration with our Process Development team, and our Senior Process Engineer in particular, to advance our ...

5AM Ventures

Process Development Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

In this newly created role, as a Process Development Engineer I, you will work in close collaboration with our Process Development team, and our Senior Process Engineer in particular, to advance our ...

Periodic Labs

Process Development Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$175K - $275K/yr

About the Role As a Process Development Engineer, you will play a crucial role in designing and optimizing the workflows and tools that enable high-efficiency process technologies, primarily for the ...

GeneFab

Senior Process Engineer, MSAT

Alameda, CA

$117K - $152K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer will translate scientific insight into robust manufacturing processes ... Collaborate closely with Process Development to evaluate platform candidates, align on scalable ...

GeneFab

Senior Process Engineer, MSAT

Alameda, CA

$117K - $152K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer will translate scientific insight into robust manufacturing processes ... Collaborate closely with Process Development to evaluate platform candidates, align on scalable ...

GeneFab

Senior Process Engineer, MSAT

Alameda, CA · On-site

$117K - $152K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer will translate scientific insight into robust manufacturing processes ... Collaborate closely with Process Development to evaluate platform candidates, align on scalable ...

Bloom Energy

Senior Process Engineer

Fremont, CA

$98K - $141K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Process Engineer to join our team in one of today's most exciting ... Work in cross-functional teams with Quality, Product Development, and Manufacturing team to develop ...

Magrathea

Senior Process Engineer

Oakland, CA

$119K - $154K/yr

Senior Process Engineer Reports to: Chief Technology Officer About Magrathea Magrathea is ... We've developed a first-of-its-kind, electrolytic process to produce magnesium from seawater and ...

Magrathea

Senior Process Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$119K - $154K/yr

Senior Process Engineer Reports to: Chief Technology Officer About Magrathea Magrathea is ... We've developed a first-of-its-kind, electrolytic process to produce magnesium from seawater and ...

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All JobsProcess Development Engineer JobsSenior Process Development Engineer JobsSenior Process Development Engineer Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Senior Process Development Engineer information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$91.8K

$148.3K

$208.8K

How much do senior process development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior process development engineer in Berkeley, CA is $148,299.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Senior Process Development Engineer do?

A Senior Process Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. They often lead teams in scaling up processes from the laboratory to full production, troubleshoot technical issues, and implement new technologies or methods. Additionally, they collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, quality assurance, and production, to ensure processes meet regulatory and safety standards. Their expertise helps companies maintain competitive advantages and meet production goals.

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

To thrive as a Senior Process Development Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical or mechanical engineering, process optimization, and project management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, process simulation tools (such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB), and Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications is often required. Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you coordinate cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement. These skills are crucial for developing efficient, scalable processes that meet quality standards and business goals.

Do R&D engineers make good money?

Senior Process Development Engineers typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their specialized skills in process optimization, research, and development. Compensation varies by industry, location, and experience, but they generally earn above-average wages compared to many other engineering roles. Advanced knowledge of tools like statistical analysis and process modeling can also influence earning potential.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Age is not a barrier to becoming a senior process development engineer or any engineering role. Many engineers start or transition into the field later in life, and success depends on skills, experience, and continuous learning, such as gaining relevant certifications or technical expertise. Employers value diverse backgrounds and practical knowledge regardless of age.

What are some common challenges a Senior Process Development Engineer may face when scaling up a new process from the lab to full production?

Senior Process Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining product quality and consistency when transitioning from small-scale laboratory experiments to large-scale manufacturing. This process typically involves troubleshooting equipment limitations, optimizing process parameters, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance, is crucial to address these challenges and achieve a smooth scale-up. Adaptability and problem-solving skills are essential to navigate unexpected issues that may arise during this transition.

What is the difference between Senior Process Development Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectSenior Process Development EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; experience in process developmentBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentResearch and development labs, manufacturing facilities, cross-functional teamsManufacturing plants, production lines, process optimization teams
Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, chemicals, biotech, manufacturingManufacturing, chemical processing, consumer goods

The main difference is that Senior Process Development Engineers focus on developing and optimizing new processes, often in R&D settings, while Process Engineers typically oversee existing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency and quality. Senior roles involve more strategic planning and innovation, whereas Process Engineers focus on day-to-day process operations.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Process Development Engineers in specialized industries such as semiconductor manufacturing or pharmaceuticals can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and requires expertise in process optimization, automation tools, and industry certifications.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Process Development Engineers in specialized industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace, or pharmaceuticals can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. High compensation often reflects leadership roles, complex project management, or working in high-demand sectors with competitive salaries.
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What job categories do people searching Senior Process Development Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Process Development Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Senior Process Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Senior Process Development Engineer job openings:
Senior Process Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Process Development Engineer job openings in Berkeley, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $148,299 per year, or $71.3 per hour.
Process Development Engineer

Process Development Engineer

5AM Ventures

Emeryville, CA

$85K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

In this newly created role, as a Process Development Engineer I, you will work in close collaboration with our Process Development team, and our Senior Process Engineer in particular, to advance our manufacturing process technology for drug-releasing microspheres, as we begin scale-up to enable later phase GMP production. Key aspects of your role include oversight and hands-on validation of our process that employs custom equipment, identifying process improvements, troubleshooting complex issues, generating manufacturing method SOPs, and maintaining a controlled inventory of equipment parts and records within our GMP-like Quality Management System (QMS).

This role involves hands-on process development in our lab, process technology research, and reporting and record keeping. We're looking for an extremely organized, critical problem solver who brings experience that may include process chemistry, mechanical engineering, GMP manufacturing, process equipment maintenance, process automation, and knowledge of record keeping within a QMS.

Qualifications
  • MS, or BS in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or a similar field. For candidates with a BS, we'd like to see significant experience in process development and GMP environments (2-5 years).
  • Experience in CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls), pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical manufacturing, or related process development and automation is strongly preferred.
  • Hands-on experience with operation of process equipment, solid mechanical aptitude, record keeping in a QMS, aseptic processing/clean rooms, and automation.
Skills and Qualities
  • Process operation and development - Demonstrated ability to execute process development activities, evaluate process performance, and provide recommendations through data-driven analysis and practical problem solving.
  • Prior experience with GMP manufacturing process and managing relations with equipment providers is a huge bonus, as we expect this role to involve several collaborations with equipment providers.
  • Meticulous attention to detail and record keeping. You take pride in generating clear, accurate, and traceable documentation.
  • Familiarity with operating in a GMP QMS environment (batch records, deviations, CAPA, change control) is strongly preferred.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and experience in the use of tools for operation, assembly, and maintenance of development laboratory equipment and infrastructure.
  • Familiarity with CAD and mechanical design would be a plus, especially when it comes to sourcing parts or working with equipment design.
  • This role may require some domestic and international travel to CMO sites for on-the-ground tech transfer support and troubleshooting.
$85,000 - $125,000 a year
Final compensation will be based on a candidate's qualifications, experience, and geographic location. Employees are also eligible for performance bonuses, equity participation and comprehensive health benefits.
We believe in building balanced teams. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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