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Entry Level Process Engineer Jobs in Columbus, OH

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Entry Level Process Engineer information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$47.8K

$88.9K

$137.6K

How much do entry level process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process engineer in Columbus, OH is $88,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $99,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering and a solid understanding of process design and optimization fundamentals. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or MATLAB) and knowledge of safety and quality standards are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in project environments. These skills ensure efficient process improvements, adherence to safety protocols, and successful collaboration within engineering teams.

What Does an Entry-Level Process Engineer Do?

An entry-level process engineer studies the processes an organization uses for manufacturing. As an entry-level process engineer, you monitor and report on manufacturing process equipment, production methods, and chemical interactions. Your responsibilities include evaluating the safety of manufacturing processes, determining efficiency, and making recommendations on improvements across all areas of manufacturing. Your duties also include troubleshooting problems in the manufacturing process, developing and implementing changes, and ensuring company-wide safety. You collaborate with teams to devise solutions to production challenges and adhere to regulations and production standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level process engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level process engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex technical systems, understanding industry-specific regulations, and learning to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. They may also need to quickly grasp company-specific processes and standards while balancing multiple projects under tight deadlines. Seeking mentorship, asking questions, and actively participating in team meetings can help new engineers overcome these hurdles and accelerate their professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and optimize processes; often involved in project planningOperate and monitor manufacturing equipment; troubleshoot issues
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, pharmaceutical industriesManufacturing plants, production facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in process optimizationCompared for hands-on operational roles

In summary, Entry Level Process Engineers focus on designing and improving processes with a bachelor's degree, while Process Technicians handle daily operations and troubleshooting with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What does an Entry Level Process Engineer do?

An Entry Level Process Engineer assists in designing, implementing, and optimizing processes within manufacturing or production environments. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze workflows, improve efficiency, ensure safety standards, and troubleshoot production issues. Their responsibilities may also include collecting and interpreting data, preparing technical reports, and supporting quality control measures. This role provides hands-on experience and foundational skills in process engineering, often serving as a starting point for a career in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Entry Level Process Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Entry Level Process Engineer job openings:

Engineer - Engineer Associate-Principal - East Transmission Planning/Ohio

Aep

New Albany, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date

06-15-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing advance engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

Job Description

What you'll do:

  • Technical Expertise: Ability to understand and perform load flow analysis, short circuit and other planning studies as needs arise. In this role, familiarity with tools such as PSS/E, TARA and Aspen are a plus. The selected candidate will be frequently evaluating new end user connections to the Transmission grid (load and generation) and develop creative solutions to interconnect these requests. In addition, the candidate will also conduct area wide studies to assess necessary system improvements to address any reliability deficiencies. In a Transmission Planning role, the candidate will also have an opportunity to learn about other disciplines and how they fit in the big picture
  • Leadership & Guidance: As a Transmission Planner, you will coordinate, facilitate and engage several activities such as project engagement, project kick-offs and other tasks as they arise. Performs routine planning activities with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees as needed. Elevates issues to higher-level employees/leaders as appropriate.
  • Planning & Organization Ability: Coordinates the submission of needs and solutions to PJM for their assigned area of responsibility. Tracks assigned tasks including project progress, customer RFIs etc. and operate within the established due dates. Problem Solving & Initiative: Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine. Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.
  • Communication: Ideal candidate needs to be comfortable communicating with teams of other disciplines and with developing presentations to other teams/stakeholders. Presentations could be their own projects, studies or reports. With time and experience, expectations are the candidate will be able to communicate effectively and comfortably with his peers and conduct clear and concise presentations.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Is an active team member. Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system. Identifies key stakeholders. Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus.
  • Decision Making: Makes decisions subject to review within established standards, policies and procedures. Make decisions that affect the work of the team. Aware of risks. Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.
  • Business Awareness & Characteristics: Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.

What we're looking for:

Engineer Associate SG6

  • This is an entry level position for new graduates with a bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
  • Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.

Engineer SG7

  • Has typically acquired a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* along with two or more years of related engineering experience.
  • Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.
  • Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

Acceptable alternative:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.

Engineer Senior SG8

  • Has typically acquired 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
  • Or 2 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*;
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred
  • Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

Acceptable Alternative:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

Engineer Principal SG9

  • Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
  • Or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP.*Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

Acceptable alternative:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation is preferred to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

*VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non-ABET accredited program

Where you'll work:

This role will sit on site in New Albany , Ohio

What you'll get:

Engineer Associate SG6($84,000-$90,000)

Engineer SG7($89,000-$110,000)

Engineer Senior SG8($110,000-$129,000

Engineer Principal SG9($116,000-$151,000)


The power of AEP comes from our valued team of unique employees....the best in the business! We're proud to be one of the largest electric energy companies in the U.S., powering over 5 million homes and businesses, spanning across 11 states. We're passionate about making an innovative difference in the communities we serve. We're powering the future - today!

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

American Electric Power (On-Site)

$84K- $151K / Year

#LI-Onsite

#AEPCareers

#Engineer

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-007

Compensation Range:

$74,551.00 - $151,132.50

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.