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Chemical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Overview: Under the general direction of the Shift Lead, Engineer, or Supervisor, performs diversified but semi-repetitive chemical processes following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs ...

Under the general direction of the Shift Lead, Engineer, or Supervisor, performs diversified but semi-repetitive chemical processes following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), standardized methods ...

Under the general direction of the Shift Lead, Engineer, or Supervisor, performs diversified but semi-repetitive chemical processes following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), standardized methods ...

Travel up to 5% of the time as required to support program needs Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline ...

Whether you're a scientist or engineer, new to the team or established, in business, production, or ... The chemical operator carries out the activities involved in the manufacture of products in the HPE ...

New

Senior Process Engineer

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Chemical Engineering undergraduate degree from an ABET accredited school Job Responsibilities: * Prepare PFDs and P&IDs * Size and specify typical process equipment such as pumps, tanks, heat ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$57K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

209th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

We are seeking to fill a postdoctoral associate position for a highly motivated and driven candidate in the Koenig Lab as a part of a collaborative project on designing a novel particle loaded fabric mask for filtering particles from air. This is an excellent opportunity to learn and apply particle engineering skills and apply research towards a real world application. Also, the position will include analysis and characterization relevant to battery technology and materials. Further, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to grow a strong industrial and academic network by attending and presenting at conferences, and by providing regular updates to the project sponsors.
Primary Responsibilities: The chosen candidate will work on a collaborative project that includes other academic researchers and a small business. The project will include synthesis and characterization of inorganic particulate materials, applying coating processes to the deposit the particles onto fabrics, assessing the efficacy of the coatings on different fabric types, and scaling the process to pilot scale production. There will also be coordination with other aspects such as third party testing and validation. As the research group also engages in battery technology research, the candidate would also contribute to particle characterization relevant to battery technology. The candidate will also have some capabilities in experimental design and modeling to achieve project milestones. Additionally, the candidate will provide regular project progress updates to the sponsor and coordinate on any necessary project reports. Techniques that will be applied include glove box research, electrochemical characterization, filtration efficacy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and custom transport measurements.
Qualifications:
Minimum Education Requirements:
  • A Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.

Preferred Experience and Skills:
  • Technical background in particle engineering, particle characterization, inorganic synthesis, electrochemical characterization, battery technology, materials characterization (SEM, XRD), scaling of unit operations.
  • Experience with scripting/programing, and/or developing and implementing transport models.
  • Experience in working with or starting small business in technical field relevant to the posting.
  • Demonstrated scientific ability through publications and presentation in scientific conferences.
  • Ability to effectively and clearly communicate researching findings, results, and analysis.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and search for R0086400. Attach a cover letter indicating research interests, a detailed curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the CV box. Make sure to upload all the documents to complete your application.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on August 27, 2026, and the posting will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
Estimated Salary range is $57,000 - $60,000, commensurate with experience.
This is a one-year appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
For questions regarding this position, please contact Professor Gary Koenig at gmk3k@virginia.edu.
For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .
For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819