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Chemical Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve ... Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months * 8 + years of ...

Sr. Materials Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Identify defects, contaminants, chemical and structural features. * Operate and maintain a variety ... Develop a coordinated effort with Product Line Management, Engineering, and other Research ...

Engineer, Quality MQA

Ontario, CA

$72K - $93K/yr

The Quality Engineer develops, implements, and evaluates inspection, testing, and evaluation standards using knowledge of mechanical, electrical, electronic, computer, and chemical engineering fields.

Field Operations Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or chemical Engineering or equivalent industry experience/certifications considered * 3-5 years of commissioning and start-up experience of large capital projects in ...

ELECTRICIAN

Irvine, CA · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Mitsubishi Chemical Carbon Fiber and Composites, Inc. Key Responsibilities: * Install, maintain ... Work with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and other ...

ELECTRICIAN

Irvine, CA · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Mitsubishi Chemical Carbon Fiber and Composites, Inc. Key Responsibilities: * Install, maintain ... Work with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and other ...

Production Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Chemical Engineering Bachelor degree required Pay Range: $77,000 - $100,000 The salary range for this position is determined by considering a variety of factors such as skills, experience ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, Materials, Chemical Engineering, or a related field required. * A minimum of 5 years' experience working in thin film process and equipment, such as CVD, PVD ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, Materials, Chemical Engineering, or a related field required. * A minimum of 5 years' experience working in thin film process and equipment, such as CVD, PVD ...

Showing results 21-40

Chemical Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$41.7K

$91.3K

$146.1K

How much do chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer in Riverside, CA is $91,272.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $111,100.00 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 Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Chemical Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Chemical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $91,272 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Lead Municipal Wastewater Treatment Engineer

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • Hybrid

$92K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead technical delivery of wastewater treatment and infrastructure projects, including feasibility studies, facility planning, and treatment plant upgrades.

  • Guide process design for physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment systems and review related technical documents.

  • Support client engagement through proposals, meetings, and technical insights, and mentor staff involved in wastewater treatment planning and design.


Job description

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a strategic and collaborative Lead Municipal Wastewater Treatment Engineer based in California to guide wastewater treatment projects for municipal clients. In this leadership role, you will serve as a technical leader, lead multidisciplinary teams, and deliver innovative, high-quality solutions.

This role combines process design leadership, technical quality oversight, team coordination, and client-facing support for complex projects with evolving regulatory and operational needs.

You’ll help shape project outcomes, mentor staff, advance project excellence, and represent Kennedy Jenks in client and industry settings.

What You’ll Do

As a Lead Municipal Wastewater Treatment Engineer, you’ll lead technical delivery, support client engagement, and mentor project teams.

  • Lead project delivery: Direct wastewater treatment and infrastructure projects, including feasibility studies, facility planning, and treatment plant upgrades.
  • Guide process design: Lead process design for physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment systems.
  • Oversee deliverables: Review calculations, drawings, specifications, design reports, and related technical documents for complex treatment projects.
  • Support client engagement: Partner with client service managers on proposals, client meetings, and interviews by contributing process innovations and technical insights.
  • Plan project work: Develop scopes, budgets, and schedules aligned with client needs, project objectives, and regulatory requirements.
  • Mentor staff: Provide technical guidance to colleagues engaged in wastewater treatment planning, design, and delivery.
  • Represent Kennedy Jenks: Participate in internal and external meetings, industry forums, and technical discussions as a trusted wastewater treatment expert.
What Makes This Role Different
  • Meaningful project impact: Shape wastewater treatment solutions that improve infrastructure, support communities, and address complex client needs.
  • Visible technical leadership: Apply your expertise in high-impact settings, from project strategy and client discussions to technical forums and industry conversations.
  • Opportunity to grow others: Mentor colleagues, share knowledge, and help strengthen a collaborative technical community.
What You Bring
  • Technical judgment: Ability to evaluate complex wastewater treatment challenges and recommend practical, innovative solutions.
  • Collaborative leadership: Comfort leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating across functions, and building trust with clients and colleagues.
  • Client-focused mindset: Commitment to understanding client goals, communicating clearly, and supporting responsive, high-quality service.
  • Project ownership: Ability to balance scope, budget, schedule, technical quality, and regulatory considerations throughout project delivery.
  • Mentorship mindset: Interest in coaching staff, sharing knowledge, and helping strengthen technical capability across the team.
Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering.
  • Experience: 7+ years of wastewater treatment engineering experience, including municipal wastewater treatment projects.
  • Technical background: Experience with process design, facility planning, treatment plant upgrades, calculations, design reports, drawings, and specifications.
  • Communication: Excellent written and oral communication skills for client, team, and technical discussions.
  • Licensure: Professional Engineer (PE) license required in California.

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work-life balance and utilizes a hybrid model of home and office work, with a minimum of two days per week in the office. This approach empowers our people to thrive, collaborate, and achieve their full potential.

Salary range for this position is anticipated to be $92,000 to $171,000, and may vary based on education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications, and geographic location.

Benefits summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; a health savings account; a 401(k); bonus programs; tuition reimbursement; employee ownership opportunity; professional registration support; business travel assistance; competitive paid time off and holidays; an employee assistance program; and additional programs that support your wellbeing and professional growth.

#LI-Hybrid