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Chemical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

X-energy

Chemical Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

The position applies a chemical engineering background in nuclear applications, with particular emphasis on thermal-fluid modeling tools (e.g., ASPEN, COMSOL), high-temperature materials behavior ...

X-Energy, LLC

Chemical Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

X-energy LLC is hiring a mid-level Chemical Engineer to join its team. This position is responsible for supporting the design, implementation, and optimization of chemical processes and systems used ...

X Energy LLC

Chemical Engineer

Rockville, MD

X-energy LLC is hiring a mid-level Chemical Engineer to join its team. This position is responsible for supporting the design, implementation, and optimization of chemical processes and systems used ...

X Energy LLC

Chemical Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

X-energy LLC is hiring a mid-level Chemical Engineer to join its team. This position is responsible for supporting the design, implementation, and optimization of chemical processes and systems used ...

ERG

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$110 - $155/hr

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 ...

Medium

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$110 - $155/hr

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 ...

New

ERG

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$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

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · 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

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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All JobsChemical Engineer JobsChemical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Chemical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$41.6K

$91K

$145.7K

How much do chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer in Reston, VA is $91,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $110,800.00 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.
More about Chemical Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Chemical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Chemical Engineer job openings:

Chemical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,017 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Chemical Engineer

X-energy

Rockville, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company career page, We will never ask you to provide payment information as part of the recruiting process. If anyone claiming to represent X-energy directs you in a manner otherwise, please contact us at ;br>
Job Description
X-energy LLC is hiring a mid-level Chemical Engineer to join its team. This position is responsible for supporting the design, implementation, and optimization of chemical processes and systems used in the production of materials and products. The role works cross-functionally with project leadership and other engineering disciplines to deliver on defined project objectives. The focus of this engineering role is on thermal-hydraulic and process systems engineering for High-Temperature Gas-cooled Reactors (HTGRs). Responsibilities include the modeling, analysis, and integration of chemical, mechanical, and thermal systems. The position applies a chemical engineering background in nuclear applications, with particular emphasis on thermal-fluid modeling tools (e.g., ASPEN, COMSOL), high-temperature materials behavior, and reactor systems integration. This role supports the full lifecycle of HTGR systems and components, from design and analysis to qualification.
Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate in the planning, scheduling, and execution of engineering tasks across multiple phases of HTGR system development.
  • Provide technical oversight and direction to internal and external design teams, ensuring adherence to project objectives and quality standards.
  • Lead and participate in reviews and presentations for internal and customer design evaluations, focusing on chemical and thermal-hydraulic system performance.
  • Translate customer needs into functional requirements, contributing to the definition and validation of chemical engineering specifications and interface documents.
  • Organize and coordinate efforts between chemical engineering, systems engineering, nuclear design, and external stakeholders, including suppliers and contractors.
  • Maintain professional conduct in all forms of communication and project engagement.
  • Develop and validate thermal-hydraulic models for HTGR cores, secondary systems, and balance-of-plant using advanced simulation tools such as ASPEN, COMSOL, and other process modeling platforms.
  • Conduct system-level heat and mass balance analyses for steady-state and transient operating conditions, including load-following and accident scenarios.
  • Integrate chemical engineering principles into HTGR plant design, covering helium Brayton and Rankine cycles, heat exchanger networks, hydrogen production, tritium control, and off-gas systems.
  • Evaluate high-temperature material behavior-including oxidation, corrosion, and creep-for alloys, graphite, and reactor-grade materials under HTGR-relevant conditions.
  • Support the specification, sizing, and performance evaluation of key system components such as recuperators, compressors, turbomachinery, and helium circulators.
  • Execute or review CFD and FEA analyses to support component-level assessments of flow distribution, thermal gradients, and structural integrity.
  • Contribute to plant operational strategies including control schemes, startup/shutdown procedures, and accident mitigation approaches.
  • Support licensing and QA efforts through preparation of technical reports, engineering calculations, and safety analyses in compliance with NRC and ASME standards.
  • Lead or mentor small engineering teams in solving complex design and integration challenges within HTGR systems.
  • Maintain professional demeanor and behavior at all times in all forms of communication.
  • Execute the core tasks and responsibilities, listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, with minimal supervision.
  • Provide ownership, responsibility, and accountability over technical scope involving the coordination of multiple individual contributors working in a specific area.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by manager.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related degree from an accredited institution.
  • Typically, five years of experience in a chemical engineering role.
  • A master's degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.
  • A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.
  • Previous experience at X-energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.
  • Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, ChemCAD).
  • Knowledge of industry standards and safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, EPA).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in the nuclear industry.

Location: 9801 Washingtonian Blvd, Gaithersburg MD
Work Site Expectations: 4 days a week in office
Travel Expectations: Up to 10% as needed
Hours: 8:00am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday
Compensation
As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives.
Offers within the posted salary range are commensurate with the individual's qualifications for the position, along with a view on internal equity, market data, and room for growth. The salary range for this position is:
$100,000- $140,000
Position Job Classification
Full time - Exempt
Benefits
X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
X Energy, LLC participates in E-Verify. Please visit the links below for more information about E-Verify and the protection of your Right to Work.
Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)
E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish

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