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Chemical Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Cruz Associates Inc. of Yorktown, VA has an open position and is looking for qualified candidates for an Chemical Engineer . The job location is at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Indian Head, MD

Chemical Engineer

Indian Head, MD ยท On-site +1

$77K - $176K/yr

Share Chemical Engineer The Opportunity: Are you looking for an opportunity to combine your technical skills with big picture thinking to make an impact on national security? You understand how a ...

Senior Chemical Engineer

Indian Head, MD ยท On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

The ideal Senior Chemical Engineer candidate must be eager to learn, embrace a safety-first mindset, and work effectively with diverse teams, including peers, clients, and stakeholders. Work ...

Chemical Engineer

Indian Head, MD ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Chemical Engineer The Opportunity: Are you looking for an opportunity to combine your technical skills with big picture thinking to make an impact on national security? You understand how a sensor ...

Chemical Engineer

Indian Head, MD ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Chemical Engineer The Opportunity: Are you looking for an opportunity to combine your technical skills with big picture thinking to make an impact on national security? You understand how a sensor ...

Senior Chemical Engineer/Chemist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer or Chemist to lead reverse engineering analysis on defense industrial programs. You will leverage deep subject matter expertise to evaluate intelligence and ...

We are seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer or Chemist to lead reverse engineering analysis on defense industrial programs. You will leverage deep subject matter expertise to evaluate intelligence and ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Chemical Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$45.3K

$99.1K

$158.6K

How much do chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer in Washington is $99,087.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $120,600.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Chemical Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Chemical Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Chemical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,087 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

Chemical Engineer

Cruz Associates Inc

Indian Head, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Cruz Associates Inc. of Yorktown, VA has an open position and is looking for qualified candidates for an Chemical Engineer. The job location is at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Indian Head, MD.

Scope of Performance: Perform project engineering duties to include: preparation of cost proposals, planning project execution, providing technical oversight, preparing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring quality requirements are met, developing engineering solutions to problems, preparing specifications, and communicating project results to management and other team members.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Ability to use intermediate engineering/scientific techniques, requirements, methods, sources, and procedures in a specialty area.
  • Intermediate knowledge of analytical, evaluative, and problem solving necessary to perform professional scientific/engineering work.
  • Ability to participate and assist in planning and coordinating individual assignments to meet project goals.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Knowledge in physics, math, and science.
  • Knowledge in chemicals and their safe use, storage, and disposal.

Education and Experience – Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
  • Ability or obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.
  • Ability to perform light travel depending on work specifications.
  • Ability to work in a production environment.
  • Must complete and maintain Qualification/Certification status.