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Chemical Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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Chemical Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$36.3K

$79.3K

$126.9K

How much do chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer in Alabama is $79,297.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $96,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectChemical EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering; often licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE)Bachelor's degree in chemical, process, or industrial engineering; may also pursue PE licensure
Work EnvironmentFactories, laboratories, research facilities, and industrial plantsManufacturing plants, process design, and optimization settings
Industry UsageChemical, pharmaceuticals, energy, and materials industriesManufacturing, refining, and process industries

Both Chemical Engineers and Process Engineers work in industrial environments and often require similar educational backgrounds. Chemical Engineers typically focus on designing and developing chemical processes, while Process Engineers optimize and improve existing manufacturing processes. Their roles often overlap, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly based on project scope and focus.

What is a chemical engineer?

Chemical engineers are professionals who apply principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology, and engineering to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products. They design processes and equipment for large-scale manufacturing, plan and test production methods, and oversee facility operations. Chemical engineers work in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, energy, food processing, and environmental health and safety. Their work helps turn raw materials into useful products safely, efficiently, and sustainably.

What type of jobs do chemical engineers do?

Chemical engineers design, develop, and optimize processes for manufacturing chemicals, fuels, pharmaceuticals, and other products. They work in industries such as energy, materials, and environmental protection, often using tools like process simulation software and adhering to safety and environmental regulations.

What are some common challenges chemical engineers face when working on process optimization projects?

Chemical engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing safety requirements with production efficiency, troubleshooting complex process issues, and adapting to new technologies or regulations. These projects typically require close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including operators, quality control, and maintenance staff, to implement changes without disrupting ongoing operations. Staying up-to-date with industry best practices and maintaining strong problem-solving skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges and drive continuous improvement.

Is there a high demand for chemical engineers?

Chemical engineers are in high demand across industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, and manufacturing due to ongoing innovation and the need for process optimization. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, especially for those with strong technical skills and relevant certifications.

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

To thrive as a Chemical Engineer, you need a solid background in chemistry, mathematics, and process engineering, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), safety regulations, and laboratory analysis tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and teamwork skills help Chemical Engineers excel in collaborative and dynamic environments. These competencies are vital for designing efficient processes, ensuring safety, and driving innovation in chemical manufacturing and related industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineer jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineer jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Chemical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,297 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Process Engineer - chemical or petroleum

Great Bay Staffing Group

Decatur, AL

$110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

$86,000 - $110,000 base + 8-12% annual bonus + sign-on bonus

Decatur, Alabama

The Opportunity

This is a Process Engineer role with a global chemical manufacturer where you'll own the technical and economic performance of a process unit — not just monitor it. You'll design and document processes for new product development, select equipment for scale-up from development to production, and lead troubleshooting efforts that directly impact quality, cost, and safety across the plant.

The company operates at multi-billion dollar scale in its segment of the chemical industry, giving you the resources to pursue meaningful process improvements rather than just react to problems.

Why You'll Love This Role

You'll have real ownership over your assigned unit — from daily monitoring through developing and running tests to evaluate operating changes for product quality, capacity, or cost. When you identify improvements, you're expected to build the technical case and present it to the unit team, not just flag the idea and move on.

The scope extends beyond day-to-day operations: you'll design processes for new products, coordinate development efforts with colleagues and management, and lead selected projects with full responsibility for planning, coordination, and progress reporting, including supervision of technicians.

Compensation reflects the level of ownership: base salary up to $110,000 depending on experience, an annual bonus of 8-12%, a sign-on bonus, and paid relocation assistance if you're moving to Decatur.

Your Day-to-Day
  • Monitor unit operations and identify opportunities to improve quality, reduce costs, enhance safety, or lower emissions
  • Design and conduct tests evaluating proposed operating changes
  • Provide technical support for PSM/RMP and other regulatory programs
  • Investigate production, safety, environmental, or quality issues as they arise
  • Design and document processes and select equipment for new product scale-up
  • Write procedures and train operators on new equipment
  • Lead assigned projects and supervise technicians as needed
  • Collaborate with the unit team on annual control budgets and economic studies
What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering (required)
  • 10+ years of experience as a Process Engineer in a chemical or petroleum manufacturing environment strongly desired
  • Direct chemical process experience in manufacturing or petrochemicals
  • Ability to work in a physically active plant environment, including lifting up to 50 lbs and extended shifts
Ready to Apply?

If you're an experienced Process Engineer looking for a role where you own real technical and economic outcomes — not just maintenance tickets — this is worth a conversation.

Great Bay Staffing represents candidates with complete confidentiality. Your resume will never be shared with a client without your knowledge and approval.