ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Process Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Zachry Group

Sr Engineer Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$148K - $170K/yr

Zachry Group is currently accepting applications for a Senior Process Engineer in our Downers Grove Engineering Design Center . Successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team supporting ...

Zachry Group

Sr Engineer Process

Downers Grove, IL

$148K/yr

Zachry Group is currently accepting applications for a Senior Process Engineer with Power Experience for our Downers Grove Engineering Design Center. Successful candidate will be responsible for ...

Zachry Group

Sr Engineer Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$148K - $170K/yr

Zachry Group is currently accepting applications for a Senior Process Engineer in our Downers Grove Engineering Design Center . Successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team supporting ...

Zachry Group

Sr Engineer Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$148K/yr

Zachry Group is currently accepting applications for a Senior Process Engineer with Power Experience for our Downers Grove Engineering Design Center. Successful candidate will be responsible for ...

Sotera Health

Sr. Process Engineer

Oak Brook, IL

$105K - $135K/yr

... Sr. Process Engineer The Process Engineer analyzes process data to identify inefficiencies in the sterilization process and implements appropriate improvements. The Engineer also leads development ...

Stantec

Senior Process Engineer - Industrial Water

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

The role of the Senior Process Engineer is to productively network with a wide array of engineering, environmental, water and wastewater professionals on both technical project execution and related ...

Westrock

Sr. Eng, Process Eng

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Process Engineer The Opportunity: The Process Engineer will work within the structure of the Operations Excellence team to lead and participate in production and process improvement activities ...

MONOSOL LLC

Senior Process Development Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $138K/yr

The Senior Process Development Engineer is responsible for leading complex process research and development activities to enable the successful scale-up, optimization, and industrialization of new ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSenior Process Engineer JobsSenior Process Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Senior Process Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$76.2K

$123K

$173.1K

How much do senior process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior process engineer in Chicago, IL is $122,984.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,600.00 and $136,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSenior Process EngineerProcess Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with 5+ years experienceBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field, typically 1-3 years experience
ResponsibilitiesLeading process improvements, mentoring, project managementSupporting process development, data analysis, assisting senior staff
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, manufacturing plants, R&D departmentsManufacturing facilities, engineering teams, operational support

Senior Process Engineers typically have more experience, leadership duties, and oversee complex projects, while Process Engineers focus on supporting process development and implementation. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and engineering industries, but the senior role involves greater responsibility and strategic planning.

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

To thrive as a Senior Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical or process engineering, problem-solving skills, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Expertise in process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), Six Sigma or Lean certifications, and familiarity with process control systems are highly valued. Outstanding analytical abilities, leadership, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for optimizing processes, ensuring safety and compliance, and leading teams to achieve operational excellence.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Process Engineers in industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, or aerospace can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, and requires advanced technical knowledge and certifications like Six Sigma or PMP.

What does a senior process engineer do?

A senior process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing or industrial processes to improve efficiency, safety, and quality. They analyze data, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements, often using tools like process simulation software and adhering to safety and regulatory standards. They also mentor junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth operations.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Process Engineers in specialized industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, or aerospace can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and requires expertise in process optimization, safety standards, and industry-specific tools.

How much does a senior process engineer earn?

A senior process engineer typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often have specialized skills in process optimization, project management, and may hold certifications like Six Sigma or PMP.

What are some common challenges Senior Process Engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Senior Process Engineers often collaborate with professionals from various departments, such as operations, quality, and maintenance. A common challenge is aligning diverse priorities and communication styles to achieve shared project goals. Successfully managing these differences requires strong interpersonal and project management skills, as well as the ability to translate technical concepts for non-engineering colleagues. Regular meetings and clear documentation can help ensure everyone stays informed and engaged throughout the process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Senior Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Senior Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Senior Process Engineer job openings:
Senior Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Process Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,984 per year, or $59.1 per hour.
Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

North Chicago, IL • On-site

$100K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Title: Sr. Process Engineer SME – Biologics/API
Location: North Chicago IL.
Hire Type: Contract
Shift: 1st Standard business hours
Compensation:70-80/hr

Benefits:
As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan.

Must Have Skill Set:
10+ years of process engineering experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, biotech, or API manufacturing environments
Strong GMP manufacturing process knowledge
Experience supporting capital projects and process improvements
Process engineering SME / technical leadership experience
Strong cross-functional communication and stakeholder management skills
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or related technical discipline

Overview:
We are seeking a Senior Process Engineer SME to provide technical process engineering leadership across biologics and pharmaceutical manufacturing projects. This individual will serve as the primary process subject matter expert, supporting engineering teams, project managers, manufacturing operations, and technical stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. The role is focused on providing technical guidance and manufacturing process expertise for capital projects, process improvements, facility expansions, equipment implementation, and operational readiness activities within GMP-regulated environments.
Job Duties:
Provide technical leadership and process engineering expertise across multiple manufacturing projects and initiatives
Serve as the primary process engineering SME supporting biologics and/or API manufacturing operations
Support process design reviews, equipment selection, and manufacturing strategy discussions
Collaborate cross-functionally with project management, operations, quality, validation, automation, and engineering teams
Review and support process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, equipment layouts, and utility integration plans
Support manufacturing process optimization, troubleshooting, and risk mitigation activities
Participate in commissioning, startup, and operational readiness activities as needed
Ensure compliance with GMP standards, process requirements, and manufacturing best practices
Provide technical guidance during process changes, facility expansions, and technology transfer activities
Support communication between technical teams and project execution stakeholders
Identify and help resolve process-related project risks and execution challenges
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or related technical discipline
10+ years of experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, biotech, or API manufacturing environments
Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and GMP operations
Experience supporting capital projects and manufacturing process improvement initiatives
Ability to provide technical leadership across engineering, operations, and project teams
Strong communication, stakeholder management, and technical leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience supporting biologics manufacturing, including upstream/downstream processing, fermentation, or purification systems
Experience with large-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing projects or facility expansions
Knowledge of commissioning, qualification, startup, and manufacturing readiness activities
Familiarity with process equipment, utilities, automation, and manufacturing systems integration
Previous experience acting as a process SME or technical lead on complex manufacturing projects
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national