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Chemical Engineer Graduate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Eastman

PhD Chemical Engineer

Kingsport, TN

Eastman Chemical Company is seeking a recent 2026 or upcoming 2027 PhD graduate in Chemical Engineering to join the Technology organization in Kingsport, Tennessee. This individual will become an ...

Eastman

PhD Chemical Engineer

Kingsport, TN · On-site

Eastman Chemical Company is seeking a recent 2026 or upcoming 2027 PhD graduate in Chemical Engineering to join the Technology organization in Kingsport, Tennessee. This individual will become an ...

Motlow

$75 - $95/hr

Monitor regional labor market trends to ensure program relevance and graduate employability ... Represent the Chemical Engineering Technology to internal and external constituents. Minimum ...

New

Merrick & Company

Process Engineer Intern

Oak Ridge, TN

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

OVERVIEW Merrick & Company seeks a Chemical Engineering undergraduate or graduate student for a paid Summer 2027 Internship in our Oak Ridge, Tennessee office. Merrick's Summer Internship Program ...

New

Eastman

Materials Engineer

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

... chemical process equipment, and process design is valued and highly desired in this role ... Bachelor's or graduate degree in Materials, Materials Science, Metallurgical, Welding, Corrosion ...

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All JobsChemical Engineer Graduate JobsChemical Engineer Graduate Jobs in Tennessee

Chemical Engineer Graduate information

See Tennessee salary details

$36.3K

$79.4K

$127.1K

How much do chemical engineer graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer graduate in Tennessee is $79,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,300.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the qualifications to get a job as a chemical engineer graduate?

The qualifications that you need to get an entry-level engineering job as a graduate of a chemical engineer program include a relevant degree and demonstrable research, lab, or analysis skills. You can gain experience during your undergraduate studies by taking part in an internship program or assisting in academic research at your university. You can obtain a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, though some schools offer a five-year program that leads to a master’s degree in chemical engineering.

What does a chemical engineer graduate do?

A Chemical Engineer Graduate typically assists in designing, developing, and optimizing processes for producing chemicals, fuels, food, pharmaceuticals, and other products. They apply principles of chemistry, physics, biology, and math to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals. Graduates often work under the supervision of senior engineers and may be involved in research, process development, safety analysis, or quality control. Over time, they gain experience and may take on more complex projects or leadership roles.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a chemical engineer graduate expect during their first year on the job?

As a Chemical Engineer Graduate, you can anticipate working on a variety of projects that may include process optimization, safety assessments, and assisting with the design or scale-up of chemical processes. Typically, you'll support senior engineers by collecting and analyzing data, running simulations, and preparing technical reports. Collaboration is key, and you'll often work closely with multidisciplinary teams including mechanical engineers, quality assurance staff, and plant operators. This early exposure helps you build foundational skills and gain insights into different areas of the chemical engineering field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical engineer graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Engineer Graduate, you need a solid understanding of chemical engineering principles, process design, and analytical problem-solving, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB, and knowledge of safety and quality regulations, are often required. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for collaborating on projects and conveying technical information. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and innovative solutions in diverse engineering environments.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineer Graduate vs Chemical Technician?

AspectChemical Engineer GraduateChemical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or diploma in chemical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize chemical processes, often in labs or plant settingsAssist in process operations, sampling, and quality control in manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, energy, pharmaceuticalsManufacturing plants, laboratories, production facilities

The main difference between a Chemical Engineer Graduate and a Chemical Technician lies in their education, responsibilities, and work scope. Chemical Engineer Graduates focus on designing and improving chemical processes, requiring a bachelor's degree, while Chemical Technicians support these processes through hands-on tasks with an associate degree. Both roles are essential in the chemical industry but serve different functions based on their training and responsibilities.

More about Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs

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For Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Chemical Engineer Graduate job openings:

Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer Graduate job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,404 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

PhD Chemical Engineer

Eastman Chemical Company

Kingsport, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company's innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 13,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2025 revenue of approximately $8.8 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visitwww.eastman.com.

Responsibilities

**Please note - This posting is for recent or upcoming PhD graduates to join our team in 2027. PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027**

Eastman Chemical Company is seeking a recent 2026 or upcoming 2027 PhD graduate in Chemical Engineering to join the Technology organization in Kingsport, Tennessee. This individual will become an integral member of multiple product and process development teams, ranging in scope from process upgrades to development of new process technology supporting existing and new manufacturing processes.  


Job Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Utilize expertise and fundamental knowledge to solve problems and deliver breakthrough processes and/or products 
  • Design, plan and execute catalyst evaluation campaigns to measure activity, selectivity, conversion, stability, and deactivation under relevant process conditions.
  • Develop process concepts and models for the production of new products based on proposed chemistry routes and early laboratory data  
  • Apply engineering and scientific fundamentals to existing and new areas of interest 
  • Actively participate in and lead multidisciplinary project teams 
  • Collaborate with laboratory chemists, technicians, technologists and engineers to execute laboratory and pilot plant experiments 
  • Work safely and promote a safe work environment
  • Identify innovative solutions to improve economic viability of new processes/products
  • Effectively communicate ideas and results verbally and in writing with technology, business, and manufacturing stakeholders
Qualifications
  • Required Degree: PhD in Chemical Engineering, Heterogeneous Catalysis, Reaction Engineering, or related field.
  • Fundamental knowledge of polymer and/or small molecule process technology or have a high potential to develop this level of expertise
  • Safe execution of all laboratory processes with demonstrated ability to effectively identify hazards associated with processes being explored and take appropriate actions
  • Ability to lead and contribute as a member of multidisciplinary teams
  • Ability to work independently
  • Highly motivated to achieve results and move projects forward at an efficient pace
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to summarize data and effectively present key messages across the technical enterprise, as well as various groups such as marketing, manufacturing, regulatory, QA/QC, supply chain, customer service, sales and external customers and suppliers
  • Desire to engage well with technicians/operators, peers, and management and to collaborate to find innovative solutions

Benefits

Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career.

Compensation & Incentives
Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.

Health & Wellness
Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage-paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future.
A robust menu of voluntary benefits-including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more-so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.
Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.

Retirement & Financial Strategies
401(k) with a company match-plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings.

Time Away
Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life's moments.

Growth & Development
Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.

At Eastman, we invest in the whole you-so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you're proud of.

Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.

Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engaged workplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.

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