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Senior Process Development Engineer Jobs in Decatur, IL

Senior Process Engineer - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer is responsible for implementing process and technology improvement ... Partner with operations leadership and portfolio manager in the development of site capital ...

You'll also join our structured development program: the Engineering Ladder. As your skills grow ... Engineer 1 > Engineer 2 > Engineer 3 > Sr. Engineer > Principal Engineer > Engineer Fellow Key ...

You'll also join our structured development program: the Engineering Ladder. As your skills grow ... Engineer 1 > Engineer 2 > Engineer 3 > Sr. Engineer > Principal Engineer > Engineer Fellow Key ...

You'll also join our structured development program: the Engineering Ladder. As your skills grow ... Engineer 1 > Engineer 2 > Engineer 3 > Sr. Engineer > Principal Engineer > Engineer Fellow Key ...

Senior Endpoint Engineer (R&D Specialist)

Texas, IL · Hybrid

$94K - $129K/yr

Public Trust (ADP/IT-II) or Tier 3 Investigation (NACLC) The Senior Endpoint Engineer/R&D Specialist is responsible for architecting, developing, and sustaining endpoint management and delivery ...

Industrial Engineer-Tubing

Sullivan, IL · On-site

$66K - $87K/yr

CNC Machining programming and process development to support expanding manufacturing capabilities. Qualifications and Skills Technical Expertise Strong hands-on experience with CNC tube bending ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Process Development Engineer information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$72.7K

$117.5K

$165.4K

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

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior process development engineer in Decatur, IL is $117,479.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,900.00 and $130,500.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Senior Process Development Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL? For Senior Process Development Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Senior Process Development Engineer job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $117,479 per year, or $56.5 per hour.
Senior Process Engineer - Decatur, IL

Senior Process Engineer - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

Decatur, IL • On-site

$76K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description


Senior Process Engineer - Decatur, IL
Position Summary:
The Senior Process Engineer is responsible for implementing process and technology improvement opportunities within their process area; applying analytical gap analysis and problem solving techniques to develop an opportunity landscape for the unit. The Senior Process Engineer leads the team in evaluating and prioritizing improvements from the opportunity list for implementation and works cross-functionally with technology experts and operations, reliability and maintenance teams to collect data required to complete scope definition for improvement projects and activities.
The Senior Process Engineer will also develop a portfolio of capex and non-capex improvement projects for their area as an output of the above process and owns the capex portfolio full scope of work for their process area; including scope definition, prioritization, interfacing with operations, guiding and directing the project engineering team, and will have accountability for the delivery and performance of projects, driving the 1-year and 5-year capex plans within their process area.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Partner with Plant Operations leadership on driving and leading the improvement process; analyzing production loss and accounting data to develop and prioritize a list of opportunities to improve processes
  • Ensure that holistic ideation involving all functions and stakeholders is effective and aggregated, and that the resulting list of capex and non-capex projects is aligned with strategic goals.
  • Collaborate with plant leadership to implement and track performance metrics to maintain or improve the effectiveness of operating assets.
  • Develop the process knowledge required to guide production teams in the optimization of unit operations and the achievement of production targets.
  • CAPEX planning, prioritization and tracking. Active Participation in the portfolio management process and accountable for capex portfolio integrity within their process unit.
  • Guide and drive the technical scope for capex projects.
  • Partner with operations leadership and portfolio manager in the development of site capital budgeting
  • Act as a super user of WAVE for oversight and managing the portfolio of initiatives within the region.
  • Drive accountability of initiative and project execution.
  • Support the prioritization of the Project portfolio in cooperation with the Plant Manager and Business stakeholders.
  • Function as a manufacturing technology resource for plant operations leaders.
  • Actively participate in the operations performance management process
  • Function as a champion to propose new technologies.
  • Drive a culture of Safety and Food Safety by partnering with operations teams on technology solutions.
Job Requirements:
  • BS in engineering, preferably Chemical, Mechanical, Agricultural or similar
  • 5+ years of experience in a project or process engineering role in the food industry
  • Operations leadership experience is preferred.
  • Dedication to working safely and to the awareness for the safety of others.
  • Excellent communication and people skills for working with plant personnel and regional management.
  • Willingness to spend time in plant areas - tolerate extreme temperatures, walk long distances, stand, climb stairs and ladders and move through close spaces.
  • Ability to work effectively on a team as well as independently while traveling to remote plant locations.
Skills: (Languages, computer skills etc.)
  • Demonstrated problem solving, diagnostic and analytical skills, with a result focused approach.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Team player with a propensity for collaboration
  • Demonstrated strategic mindset.
  • Self-motivated work habits and capable of prioritizing and balancing resources between multiple simultaneous initiatives
  • General knowledge of software applications
  • Direct experience in applicable manufacturing unit operations preferred, for example: soybean extraction/refining, spray drying, dry blending, emulsions, reactions, separations, distillation, filtration, corn wet milling.
  • Controls and plant automation knowledge or experience

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
Domestic relocation support is available. ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
'AJCIND' REF:110027BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
  • Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
  • Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
  • Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
  • Paid time off including paid holidays.
  • Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as 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.
The pay range for this position is expected to be between: