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Chemical Engineer Research And Development Jobs in Tennessee

Chemical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$65K - $109K/yr

Are you excited by the challenge of turning cuttingedge research into realworld impact? Do you ... This role leads the design and development of new chemical processes and unit operations that ...

Chemical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$65K - $109K/yr

Are you excited by the challenge of turning cutting-edge research into real-world impact? Do you ... This role leads the design and development of new chemical processes and unit operations that ...

Chemical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$65.56 - $109.26/hr

Are you excited by the challenge of turning cutting‑edge research into real‑world impact? Do ... This role leads the design and development of new chemical processes and unit operations that ...

This is a hands-on engineering role working closely with operations, fuel development, quality, characterization, EH&S, and radiological controls teams. The Chemical Engineer will help translate ...

This is a hands-on engineering role working closely with operations, fuel development, quality, characterization, EH&S, and radiological controls teams. The Chemical Engineer will help translate ...

... Chemical Engineering to join the Technology organization in Kingsport, Tennessee ... This individual will become an integral member of multiple product and process development teams ...

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Chemical Engineer Research And Development information

See Tennessee salary details

$55.4K

$78.1K

$120.4K

How much do chemical engineer research and development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer research and development in Tennessee is $78,101.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,400.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chemical engineer in research and development do?

A Chemical Engineer in Research and Development (R&D) designs, develops, and optimizes processes for producing chemicals, materials, and related products. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with scientists and engineers to create innovative solutions and improve existing technologies. Their work often involves scaling up laboratory findings to industrial-scale production, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance throughout the process.

What types of projects do chemical engineers in research and development typically work on, and how is teamwork structured in these projects?

Chemical Engineers in R&D often work on projects such as developing new materials, optimizing chemical processes, and improving product formulations. These projects are usually collaborative, involving cross-functional teams that include chemists, process engineers, and sometimes marketing or regulatory specialists. Team members regularly hold meetings to discuss progress, troubleshoot challenges, and share experimental data. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and allows engineers to learn from other disciplines, broadening their expertise and supporting career advancement.

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

To thrive as a Chemical Engineer in Research and Development, you need a strong background in chemical engineering principles, experimental design, and data analysis, usually supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB), and safety protocols is essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for driving innovation and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the development of safe, efficient, and novel chemical processes or products that advance organizational goals.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineer Research And Development vs Chemical Engineer Process Design?

AspectChemical Engineer Research And DevelopmentChemical Engineer Process Design
Primary FocusInnovating and developing new chemical processes and productsDesigning and optimizing manufacturing processes for existing products
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D facilities, officesIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, offices
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Chemical Engineering; often advanced degrees for research rolesBachelor's or higher in Chemical Engineering; professional engineering licensure beneficial

While both roles require a chemical engineering background, Chemical Engineer Research And Development focuses on creating new processes and products through experimentation and innovation. In contrast, Chemical Engineer Process Design emphasizes designing efficient manufacturing processes for production. Both roles are essential in the chemical industry but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

Can chemical engineers work in research and development?

Yes, chemical engineers often work in research and development, where they design experiments, develop new processes, and improve existing products. R&D roles typically require strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of chemical processes, and proficiency with laboratory tools and simulation software.

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Engineer Research And Development jobs in Tennessee?

For Chemical Engineer Research And Development jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Engineer Research And Development jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Engineer Research And Development jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Chemical Engineer Research And Development jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Chemical Engineer Research And Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer Research And Development job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,101 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Chemical Engineer

Centrus Energy Corp.

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$65K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

Are you excited by the challenge of turning cuttingedge research into realworld impact? Do you thrive in environments where you can take ownership, innovate, and see your ideas come to life? Join our team and play a key role in advancing the next generation of nuclear fuel cycle operations.

We are seeking a Chemical Engineer who is passionate about developing new processes and scaling laboratory innovations into fullscale production. In this role, you'll apply your technical expertise, creativity, and problemsolving skills to help shape the future of nuclear fuel technologies. You will work both independently and collaboratively, contributing to highimpact projects that support national missions and advanced manufacturing capability.

What You'll Do: 

This role leads the design and development of new chemical processes and unit operations that enable nuclear fuel production. It involves managing complex engineering assignments, making independent technical decisions, and delivering clear technical reports and project updates. The position serves as a team lead for multidisciplinary groups and provides guidance to external consultants and engineering partners. Responsibilities also include active participation in technical design reviews, either presenting work or offering expert evaluation.

We'd Love to Hear from Candidates with:

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering
At least three years of experience in chemical process design in the nuclear, chemical, or petroleum industries
Strong understanding of core chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid flow, heat and mass transfer, reactor kinetics, and process modeling
Handson experience scaling processes from lab to pilot or production scale, or developing new processes based on literature and research

A Successful Candidate Brings:

Experience designing or operating unit operations such as reactors, filtration systems, distillation columns, and liquidliquid extraction systems in batch or continuous modes
Proficiency with CAD tools (AutoCAD preferred)
Familiarity with process simulation tools such as ChemCAD, Aspen Plus, or HSC Chemistry
Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering (optional but advantageous)
Active DOE Q Clearance or DOD TS Clearance (desired but not required-candidates able to obtain clearance are encouraged to apply)

Pay:

Estimated Starting Base Salary Range: $65,555 - $109,259. This position is Bonus eligible. Centrus considers several factors when extending job offers, including but not limited to candidates' key skills, relevant work experience, and education/training/certifications.  While the posted range reflects the anticipated hiring range for this position, compensation above the range may be considered for candidates with exceptional qualifications and directly relevant experience.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

This position will require a pre-employment background check and a pre-employment drug test.

Centrus Energy and all subsidiaries shall abide by the applicable legal requirements. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

This position requires the successful candidate to obtain and maintain a Q security clearance.  Candidates for positions requiring a security clearance are required to be tested for the absence of any illegal drug as defined in 10 CFR 707.4 prior to an offer of employment being made.  In addition, once employed, employees will become part of a random drug testing program and may also be tested in the event of any incident causing injury or causing damage to property, or if it is determined that there is a reasonable suspicion the employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.  This position will require preemployment background check on the part of the Company and in order to receive a Q security clearance, a background investigation by the Federal government.  Subsequent Federal government reinvestigations may be required.

Centrus Energy Corp. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.