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Chemical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ERG is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer or Chemical Engineer to join our Risk Management Program (RMP) and Process Safety Management (PSM) compliance and enforcement team providing support to ...

ERG is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer or Chemical Engineer to join our Risk Management Program (RMP) and Process Safety Management (PSM) compliance and enforcement team providing support to ...

ERG is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer or Chemical Engineer to join our Risk Management Program (RMP) and Process Safety Management (PSM) compliance and enforcement team providing support to ...

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site +1

$110K - $155K/yr

ERG is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer or Chemical Engineer to join our Risk Management Program (RMP) and Process Safety Management (PSM) compliance and enforcement team providing support to ...

Research Engineer

Waynesboro, VA ยท On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

This role is ideal for someone with strong technical training in mechanical engineering, materials science, textile engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field, combined with an ...

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Chemical Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$39.7K

$86.7K

$138.8K

How much do chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer in Virginia is $86,736.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 type of jobs do chemical engineers do?

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Chemical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,736 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Mid Chemical Engineer (TS/SCI Required)

Cherokee Federal

Charlottesville, VA โ€ข On-site

$73K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description


Chemical Engineer - Mid
This position requires an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental Information (SCI) clearance with the ability to obtain a Counterintelligence polygraph to be considered.
Cherokee Strategic Edge is seeking a Chemical Engineer to join our Technology Transfer Analysis Team. The Chemical Engineer will support defense analytical requirements with enhanced scientific/engineering research and capability/limitation analysis.
Compensation & Benefits:
Estimated starting salary range: $73,000-$83,000. Pay commensurate with experience.
Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.
Chemical Engineer - Mid Responsibilities Include:
  • Provide engineering or scientific analysis support for end-user assessments of U.S. export license applications
  • Provide engineering or scientific analysis support for Risk Assessments for Technology Transfer snapshots
  • Provide engineering or scientific analysis support for foreign investment assessments
  • Provide S&TI analysis to identify, assess, and warn about emerging and disruptive technologies potentially being transferred that enable next generation foreign military capabilities
  • Develop complex analytical approaches to problems and situations for which data is incomplete, controversial, or for which no precedent exists.
  • Develop innovative approaches to analysis and validate analytical conclusions and/or maintain and update extensive intelligence databases, systems, and mechanisms for sharing relevant intelligence information to support on-going and projected projects
  • Locate, synthesize, and interpret large amounts of textual and technical all-source intelligence information
  • Prepare extensive written assessments and documents and disseminate information through reports and briefs
  • Research, analyze, interpret, evaluate, and integrate extremely complex all-source intelligence data pertaining to technology transfer subject areas
  • Brief and defend analytical outcomes and perform exploitation requirements in coordination with peers and customers throughout the IC
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Chemical Engineer - Mid Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance with the ability and willingness to obtain a Counterintelligence polygraph.
  • Minimum of four (4) years of experience conducting analysis related to the Chemical Engineer position with at least a portion of experience within the last two (2) years
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field is highly desired
  • Possess knowledge of and skill in applying advanced intelligence concepts, principles, practices, laws, regulations, methods, and techniques
  • Knowledgeable of and be able to apply analytic tradecraft standards as all work shall comply with Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 203 and DIA tradecraft guidance
  • Possess advanced knowledge of the Intelligence Community (IC) and/or Department of Defense (DoD) missions and functions
  • Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:
Cherokee Strategic Edge (CSE) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CSE, visit cherokee-federal.com.
#CherokeeFederal #LI-CK4 #IntelCareers
Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.
Similar searchable job titles:
  • Bio-chemical Engineer
  • Chemist
  • Chemical Weapons Analyst
  • Weapons of Mass Destruction Analyst

Keywords:
  • Foreign investments
  • CFIUS
  • Exports
  • Science and Technology Intelligence
  • Emerging technologies

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
As required by our governmental client, this position requires being a US Citizen AND an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental Information (SCI) clearance.

Cherokee Federal logo

About Cherokee Federal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cherokee Federal - a division of Cherokee Nation Businesses - is a team of tribally owned federal contracting companies focused on building solutions, solving complex challenges, and serving the nation's mission around the globe for more than 60 federal clients. Our team of companies manages nearly 1,000 projects of all sizes across the construction, consulting, engineering and manufacturing, health, and technology portfolios. Since 2012, the Cherokee Federal team of companies has won more than $5 billion in government contracts. Our 3,000+ employees work in 26 countries, 50 states and 2 U.S. territories. Why choose Cherokee Federal? Visit our website and learn about the great reasons to join our team. cherokee-federal.com

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tulsa, OK, US

Year founded

1969

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