1

Food Process Engineering Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

MFG ASEPTIC PROCESS ENGINEER

Newark, OH

$67K - $90K/yr

Create detailed engineering and design plans for aseptic food products ranging from dairy products ... Prepare conceptual process and packaging designs which can enhance existing or new aseptic product ...

R&D Manager - Food CPG

Columbus, OH · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

... process efficiencies * Support value engineering projects while maintaining product quality and ... Ensure products meet all FDA, USDA, food safety, and internal quality standards * Support shelf ...

Collaborates with CI and process engineering on capital projects (design and implementation, budget ... Lead maintenance staff in all areas of food safety regarding GMP's HACCP and sanitation * Ensure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Food Process Engineering information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$47.8K

$88.9K

$137.6K

How much do food process engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for food process engineering 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 engineers make $500,000?

In the field of food process engineering, high salaries reaching $500,000 are typically associated with senior roles such as director or vice president of engineering, often requiring extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. These positions may involve overseeing large-scale production, process optimization, and strategic planning within the food industry. Compensation varies based on company size, location, and individual expertise.

What is the highest paying job in food engineering?

The highest paying roles in food engineering typically include senior positions such as Food Engineering Managers or Directors, who oversee large production facilities and strategic planning. These roles often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases.

What are some common challenges faced by food process engineers when scaling up production from pilot to full-scale manufacturing?

Food process engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining product consistency, ensuring food safety, and optimizing process efficiency when transitioning from pilot-scale to full-scale production. Equipment differences, ingredient variability, and changes in processing conditions can affect texture, flavor, and shelf life. Close collaboration with quality assurance, R&D, and production teams is essential to address these challenges and implement effective solutions that uphold product standards and regulatory requirements.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior food process engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in automation or project management can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in leadership roles or large corporations. High compensation often reflects expertise, industry demand, and geographic location, with some positions in the food manufacturing or technology sectors offering such salaries.

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

To thrive as a Food Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or food engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with process simulation software, food safety regulations, and quality management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and innovative food production processes that meet industry standards.

What is food process engineering?

Food process engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on designing and optimizing processes used in the production, processing, packaging, and distribution of food. It combines principles of chemical, mechanical, and biological engineering to ensure food safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability. Food process engineers work on developing new food products, improving existing manufacturing processes, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Their work is essential in scaling up food production from small batches to large-scale industrial operations.

What is the difference between Food Process Engineering vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Process EngineerFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Food Engineering or related field; often requires engineering licensureBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or Technology; certifications like CFTech are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing food production processes, often in manufacturing plants or R&D labsDeveloping new food products, quality control, and product testing in labs or production facilities
Industry UsageUsed in process design, equipment selection, and process improvement within food manufacturingFocuses on product development, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance

Food Process Engineers primarily focus on designing and improving food production processes, ensuring efficiency and safety. Food Technologists concentrate on developing new food products and maintaining quality standards. Both roles are essential in the food industry but serve different functions related to process optimization versus product development.

What is the career of a food process engineer?

A food process engineer designs, develops, and improves manufacturing processes for food products to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency. They work with equipment, automation, and quality control systems in food production facilities, often requiring knowledge of food science, engineering principles, and regulatory standards. Careers in this field typically involve problem-solving, process optimization, and compliance with safety regulations.
What are popular job titles related to Food Process Engineering jobs in Columbus, OH? For Food Process Engineering jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Food Process Engineering jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Food Process Engineering job openings:
Process Systems Engineer

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Sterling Process Equipment and Services

Process Systems Engineer

About Sterling Process Equipment and Services

Sterling Process Equipment and Services, Inc. was founded in 1983 by a team of dedicated individuals focused on customer service. The goal was to apply a wide variety of knowledge and experience to challenges within the food, pharmaceutical and beverage industries. This has been the foundation of our success. Our reputation of trust, exceptional quality and service has allowed us to build upon this solid foundation in various ways.

Qualifications

Our ideal Process Systems Engineer gets involved with designing our process flow diagrams and P&ID's in support of the sales team. Using their excellent communication skills, this independent and self-motivated problem-solver, listens to the customer's needs, understands the scope of work, and can easily communicate the complexity to our estimators and design engineers. Wanting to get the job done and done right, this dependable and honest multi-tasker can comfortably interact with the different personalities of field personnel, peers, or customers as well as handle different projects in different locations for different customers. Leveraging knowledge and experience, this honest and collaborative quick responder can produce a sketch PFD on-site if necessary because he/she is committed, flexible, and takes personal ownership of making it all happen.

The right candidate has to be an organized critical thinker who is deadline-driven, hands-on, and detail-oriented while able to keep the big picture in mind. Confident to take ownership of decisions, our Process Engineers often have to think quickly, demonstrate design awareness and be forward-thinkers. Leading with experience, this thorough and positive self-starter can draw on experience and research to solve complex engineering problems while offering value-add insights for customer consideration. However, this adaptable and accountable engineer is not afraid to ask questions when they don't know something, praises others, and develops trust with coworkers and customers by being a teacher and learner. Utilizing his/her ability to work independently, while also being a collaborative team player, allows our candidate to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines and budget constraints.

RESPONSIBILITY

The job responsibilities of this Project Manager position include, but are not limited to:

  • Equipment Sizing - Analyze process requirements to determine appropriate equipment sizes and specifications; Select and specify process equipment and components based on project needs and industry standards.
  • Component Specification - Identify and specify valves, pumps, piping, equipment and instrumentation for various projects; Ensure all components meet regulatory and design standards specific to the customer and/or industry.
  • Scope Definition - Collaborate with stakeholders to define project scope and objectives; Develop detailed project specifications and documentation to guide design, execution and implementation.
  • Job Cost Analysis - Assist in the development of project budgets, providing accurate cost estimates for equipment and materials; Work with project management and procurement teams to ensure cost-effective solutions without compromising quality; Conduct after action reviews for effectiveness of project design and execution.
  • Communication with Drafters and Estimators - Provide technical guidance and support to drafters in creating accurate engineering drawings; Collaborate with estimators to price projects accurately, considering all aspects of the design and materials.
  • Synchronization with Project Managers - Work closely with project managers to develop and maintain project timelines; Monitor project progress, ensuring milestones are met and any issues are addressed promptly.
  • Coordination with Customers - Conduct field visits for confirmation and documentation of site conditions, equipment and arrangements; Contribute to project commissioning and start-ups
  • Synchronization with Management - Develop, improve, and follow processes and procedures; Share openly observations for Sterling to improve on its operations and commitments to quality.

Specifications

Required

  • Minimum of 5 years' process engineering experience
  • Minimum of 2 years' experience in at least two out of the following:
    • Manufacturing
    • Food and Beverage
    • Pharmaceutical
    • Personal Care products
  • Ability to read P&ID's, engineering drawings, and blueprints
  • Able to produce sketches and drawings (draw P&IDs or 3D)
  • Bachelor's degree in one of the following or a related field:
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
  • Computer skills (Microsoft Suite, ERP Systems, CAD systems, etc.)
  • Comprehensive process equipment knowledge

Preferred

  • 5 years' industry experience
  • 10 years' process engineering experience
  • Food and Beverage Processing knowledge
  • Fabrication of stainless steel knowledge
  • Familiarity with control systems and process automation (PLCs)
  • AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant3D working knowledge
  • Experience doing material and piping take-offs, setting budgets, and developing timeline

Desired

  • Global Shop Solutions (ERP)
  • Microsoft Teams, Planner, SharePoint and Project
  • Autodesk Inventor & Vault

Additional position requirements:

  • Ability to travel (by car and airplane)
  • Clean driving record
  • Pass background check
  • Passport is desired but not necessary

What sets Sterling Process Equipment and Services apart as an employer?

  • Strong Core Values:
    • Integrity
    • Focused on the Greater Good
    • Desire to Learn
    • Attention to Detail
    • Positive Attitude
  • Established and stable family-business (41 years)
  • Accessible Management that values every employee 
  • Family-friendly company that offers flexibility and sets employees up for success
  • Great reputation in the industry
  • Company utilizes latest technology, equipment, and tools
  • Management and employees are open-minded (open to change and improve), willing to grow and challenge each other
  • Great work environment and people who are like family and really care
  • Long tenure of employees
  • Opportunity to be part of the growth and have an impact
  • Great job satisfaction through working on a variety of projects, with different customers and at different locations
  • Enjoy what you are doing, be proud of the finished product, and see the accomplishments
  • Company offers growth, training, and development opportunities in order to promote from within

Salary: $85 - $115K

Benefits: Company sponsored medical, 401k, paid vacation, and seven paid holidays; Dental, vision, long term disability, short term disability, life insurance, AD&D available

To be considered for this position, please submit your resume by 7/12/24; No direct phone calls or emails for this opening will be considered. Please complete the candidate assessment prescreening here to be considered:  

https://go.cultureindex.com/p/9r3Jp5o27SaTU09oBHA

Please, no third party placement/recruiting inquires.