1

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

Senior Process Engineer

Oak Brook, IL

$105K - $135K/yr

As a Senior Process Engineer, you'll own the basic process design of unit operations and the deliverables that drive projects forward, working shoulder-to-shoulder with project teams, vendors, and ...

Apply Early

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 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 ...

Senior Process Engineer

Bedford Park, IL

$106K - $137K/yr

As a Senior Process Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, optimizing, and standardizing manufacturing processes across plants of varying scale. This role leads cross-functional initiatives ...

Sr Engineer Process

Downers Grove, IL ยท On-site

$148K - $211K/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 ...

Senior Process Engineer

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Senior Process Engineer You will be a primary technical interface between R&D, Manufacturing, and our external EPC contractors responsible for the integrity of our process technology as we advance an ...

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 ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Oak Brook, IL ยท On-site

$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 ...

Senior Process Engineer

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Senior Process Engineer The Role: Our site in Aurora is seeking a Process Development Engineer to join our team! Entegris is a world-leading supplier for the semiconductor industry. We have ...

Senior Process Engineer

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Senior Process Engineer The Role: Our site inAurorais seeking aProcess Development Engineerto join our team! Entegris is a world-leading supplier for the semiconductor industry. We have accomplished ...

Senior Process Engineer - Industrial Water

Chicago, IL ยท 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 ...

Senior Process Engineer A

Vernon Hills, IL ยท On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Senior Process Engineer A Job Location: Vernon Hills, Illinois United States At Tetra Pak we commit to making food safe and available, everywhere; and we protect what's good - protecting food ...

Sr. Eng, Process Eng

Woodridge, IL ยท 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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Senior Process Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$77.3K

$124.9K

$175.8K

How much do senior process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior process engineer in Chicago, IL is $124,865.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,200.00 and $138,700.00 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 does a Senior Process Engineer do?

A Senior Process Engineer is responsible for designing, optimizing, and overseeing processes within manufacturing or production environments. They analyze workflows, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements to increase efficiency, safety, and product quality. Senior Process Engineers often lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure operational excellence. Their expertise is vital in industries like chemicals, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, and food processing.

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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Senior Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Senior Process Engineer job openings:
Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sr. Process Engineer (SME)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

North Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$100K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Title: Sr. Process Engineer SME โ€“ 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
Bachelorโ€™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:
Bachelorโ€™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