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Chemical Engineer Graduate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Education: Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering Experience: Min Yr = 3+ Licensure: E.I.T ... graduate engineers and advance leadership skillset Autonomy in field evaluation assignments ...

Brindley Engineering

Associate Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering • Experience: Min Yr = 3+ • Licensure: E.I.T ... graduate engineers and advance leadership skillset • Autonomy in field evaluation assignments • ...

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All JobsChemical Engineer Graduate JobsChemical Engineer Graduate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Chemical Engineer Graduate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$90.1K

$144.2K

How much do chemical engineer graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer graduate in Chicago, IL is $90,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $109,700.00 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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Chemical Engineer Graduate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer Graduate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,124 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Assistant Computational Chemist / Chemical Engineer - Catalysis

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL • On-site

$94K - $147K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a regular, full-time AssistantComputational Chemist / Chemical Engineerposition. The successful candidate will lead and contribute to computational research inelectrocatalysisandheterogeneous catalysis, working closely with experimental collaborators to advance fundamental understanding and catalyst design.

This role involves conductingmultiscale modeling,spectroscopy simulations, and the development ofmachine learning methodsandautomated workflowsformulti-fidelity, multiscale, and multiphysics simulations. The research will be closely integrated with corresponding experimental efforts.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform computational studies in electrocatalysis and heterogeneous catalysis

  • Develop and apply multiscale modeling approaches to catalytic systems

  • Conduct spectroscopy simulations, including techniques such asXANES, EXAFS, and Mossbauer spectroscopy

  • Develop and implement machine learning methods and automated workflows for complex catalytic simulations

  • Collaborate closely with experimental researchers to interpret results and guide catalyst development

  • Contribute to proposal development and funding applications

  • Mentor postdoctoral researchers and graduate students

Position Requirements

  • Ph.D.inphysical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, computational materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field, along with3-6 years of postdoctoral research experience

  • Comprehensive understanding ofquantum mechanicsandcatalysis

  • Extensive experience inheterogeneous thermal catalysisandelectrocatalysis, including:

    • catalyst design

    • mechanistic studies

    • microkinetic modeling

    • reactor modeling

  • Strong computational expertise in applyingquantum mechanical methodsto determine electronic structure, catalytic properties, and reaction mechanisms

  • Demonstrated experience inspectroscopy simulations, includingXANES, EXAFS, and Mossbauer spectroscopy

  • Proficiency inPythonand relevant computational platforms

  • At least1-2 years of experienceadapting and implementingAI/ML methods in catalysis, including:

    • machine learning interatomic potentials

    • agentic workflows

  • Experience inproposal writingandfunding applications

  • Experience mentoringpostdoctoral researchersandgraduate students

  • Excellentwritten and oral communication skills

  • Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience withPGM-free oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts

  • Experience withCO reduction catalysis

RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years of experience, Masters and 3+ years, or PhD and 0+ years, or equivalent

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Chemistry 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!

As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

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