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Chemical Engineer Automotive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$63K - $81K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (mechanical, industrial, electrical, manufacturing, chemical, or similar) * Experience in an automotive manufacturing environment, specifically within paint ...

$63K - $81K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (mechanical, industrial, electrical, manufacturing, chemical, or similar) * Experience in an automotive manufacturing environment, specifically within paint ...

Manufacturing Engineer - Automotive

Dublin, VA · On-site

$63K - $81K/yr

Stefanini is looking for a Manufacturing Engineer - Automotive Assembly in Dublin VA (Onsite) For ... chemical services, technology, public sector, and utilities. Stefanini is a CMM level 5, ...

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Chemical Engineer Automotive information

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$40K

$87.5K

$140K

How much do chemical engineer automotive jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer automotive in the United States is $87,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chemical engineer do in the automotive industry?

A Chemical Engineer in the automotive industry is responsible for developing and improving materials, processes, and chemical systems used in vehicle manufacturing. Their work often involves designing new polymers, coatings, fuels, and batteries to enhance vehicle performance, safety, and sustainability. They collaborate with other engineers to ensure that chemical processes are efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, and they may also help address regulatory compliance and quality control. By leveraging their expertise, chemical engineers contribute to innovations such as lighter-weight materials, cleaner emissions, and advanced energy storage systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical engineer in the automotive industry?

To thrive as a Chemical Engineer in the automotive industry, you need a solid background in chemical engineering principles, materials science, and process design, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in chemical engineering. Familiarity with process simulation software (like Aspen Plus or MATLAB), knowledge of automotive manufacturing systems, and relevant certifications (such as Six Sigma) are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills are vital for developing innovative, efficient, and safe automotive materials and processes that meet industry standards and drive technological advancements.

How does a chemical engineer contribute to the development and optimization of automotive materials and components?

As a Chemical Engineer in the automotive industry, you play a key role in developing, testing, and improving materials such as polymers, adhesives, coatings, and fuels that are used in vehicle manufacturing. Your responsibilities often include collaborating with design, mechanical, and manufacturing teams to ensure materials meet performance, safety, and environmental standards. You may also analyze chemical processes to enhance efficiency or reduce costs, and troubleshoot material-related issues during production. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams to drive innovation in automotive technology.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineer Automotive vs Chemical Engineer Petroleum?

AspectChemical Engineer AutomotiveChemical Engineer Petroleum
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical Engineering, possibly some automotive certificationsBachelor's in Chemical Engineering, petroleum engineering certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAutomotive manufacturing plants, R&D labs, design facilitiesOil refineries, extraction sites, petrochemical plants
Industry UsageDesigning automotive fluids, materials, emissions controlRefining crude oil, producing petrochemicals, fuel processing

Both roles require a chemical engineering degree and involve process design and safety protocols. However, Chemical Engineer Automotive focuses on vehicle-related materials and emissions, while Chemical Engineer Petroleum centers on oil extraction and refining processes.

Are chemical engineers still in demand?

Chemical engineers, including those working in the automotive industry, continue to be in demand due to their expertise in process design, materials, and safety standards. The growing focus on sustainable and innovative manufacturing processes sustains employment opportunities for chemical engineers across various sectors.

Can chemical engineers work in automotive?

Chemical engineers can work in the automotive industry, focusing on areas such as materials development, manufacturing processes, and chemical safety. They often utilize skills in process engineering, materials science, and chemical analysis to improve vehicle production and performance.
More about Chemical Engineer Automotive jobs

What cities are hiring for Chemical Engineer Automotive jobs?

Cities with the most Chemical Engineer Automotive job openings:

What states have the most Chemical Engineer Automotive jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chemical Engineer Automotive jobs include:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer Automotive job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,487 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Paint Engineer - Automotive Manufacturing

CrossSafety Solutions Inc.

Lexington, KY

$72K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Paint Engineer – Automotive Manufacturing


Location: Multiple U.S. Automotive Manufacturing Facilities
Compensation: Competitive hourly rate
Schedule: Overtime may be required based on project demand
Travel: 10–25% domestic & international depending on project

About CrossSafety

CrossSafety provides engineering and technical professionals to support large-scale automotive manufacturing, battery production, and new model launch programs across North America. We partner with industry‑leading OEMs to deliver safe, efficient, and high‑quality project execution.

Our clients seeking support are often looking to fill positions quickly and in multiple locations across the United States. As such we intend on developing a pool of interested and eligible candidates who can be utilized when our clients make their requests.

We are seeking Manufacturing Project Engineers to support various production engineering teams, including battery manufacturing, process engineering, equipment installation, new model development, and paint/vehicle manufacturing systems.

About the Role

Paint Project Engineers support process integrity, equipment readiness, material performance, and ongoing improvement initiatives within high‑volume automotive paint departments.

This position is ideal for engineers who excel in fast‑paced, hands‑on environments and who can manage technical assignments from root‑cause investigation through countermeasure implementation. Projects may include new material introductions, circulation system improvements, paint process optimization, equipment refurbishments, or new system installs.

Engineers will work closely with production leaders, maintenance teams, suppliers, robotics specialists, and cross‑functional groups to ensure safety, quality, and throughput targets are consistently achieved.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Process Development

  • Provide daily process support to maintain vehicle and process integrity
  • Lead quality, material, cost, productivity, safety, and equipment improvement initiatives
  • Lead new material introduction activities to ensure no negative KPI impact
  • Investigate process or equipment concerns using structured problem‑solving methodologies
  • Interpret and review paint system drawings, paint circulation schematics, and equipment specifications

Project Management

  • Lead and support change management, including equipment installation or refurbishment projects
  • Develop project proposals, operating plans, strategies, and ringi documents
  • Coordinate cross‑department investigations and communicate root cause, countermeasures, and solutions to management
  • Support kaizen activities initiated by production while protecting key KPIs

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving

  • Conduct root-cause analysis and implement countermeasures
  • Summarize KPIs and support handover to production teams
  • Apply structured problem‑solving methodologies (PDCA, 5‑Why, DMAIC)

Manufacturing Support

  • Support production issue resolution, equipment efficiency improvements, and quality countermeasures
  • Participate in advanced cleanliness protocols when working in battery or clean‑room environments

Safety & Compliance

  • Ensure all engineering work aligns with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
  • Follow all PPE requirements: steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, protective headwear (and additional PPE as required) provided per site guidelines
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (mechanical, industrial, electrical, manufacturing, chemical, or similar)
  • Experience in an automotive manufacturing environment, specifically within paint operations
  • 2–8+ years of engineering or project management experience in manufacturing
  • Experience supporting capital projects, equipment installation, or production preparation
  • Ability to read and interpret 2D/3D drawings, facility layouts, and equipment documentation
  • Strong problem-solving mindset using structured methods (PDCA, 5-Why, DMAIC, etc.)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Project, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and shutdown periods based on project needs
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally, if required (vendor trials, supplier visits, training)
  • Must follow all PPE requirements of the site including steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, protective headwear and any additional PPE as required
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or Manufacturing Engineering
  • CAD experience (AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar) including ability to read, interpret, and modify drawings
  • Experience with PLC programming (Ladder Logic) including troubleshooting and making minor programming changes
  • Exposure to equipment installation, commissioning, or paint process upgrades
  • Familiarity with North American manufacturing safety standards
  • Six Sigma, Lean, or related engineering certifications
Why Join CrossSafety
  • Grow your technical and leadership skills alongside an established and expanding professional consulting firm
  • Join a team of over 150 supportive and safety-focused professionals including Industrial Hygienists, Ergonomists, Safety Engineers, Construction Safety Specialists, and industry-leading engineering teams
  • Advance your career by working Fortune 500 companies and in dynamic environments where your leadership truly matters
  • Contribute to high-impact industrial and construction projects across the United States
Equal Opportunity Employer

CrossSafety fosters an inclusive and respectful workplace. Accommodations are available upon request.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.