1

Chemical Engineer Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Industries is hiring a Railcar Senior Chemical Cleaner at our Shell Rock, IA plant. As a member of the Railcar Chemical Cleaning team at Trinity, you'll determine and complete appropriate ...

Project Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field (Mechanical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering). * 3-5 years of experience in a technical field in a food ...

Senior Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$103K - $141K/yr

A Bachelor's degree is required; preferably in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering. * Prefer to have additional education in Project Management. * Minimum ten years of Process Engineering and/or ...

Senior Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$103K - $141K/yr

A Bachelor's degree is required; preferably in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering. * Prefer to have additional education in Project Management. * Minimum ten years of Process Engineering and/or ...

Senior Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

A Bachelor's degree is required; preferably in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering. * Prefer to have additional education in Project Management. * Minimum ten years of Process Engineering and/or ...

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hydrite-chemical-co- * Facebook: facebook.com/hydrite * YouTube:

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hydrite-chemical-co- * Facebook: facebook.com/hydrite * YouTube:

Controls Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA

$77K - $100K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hydrite -chemical-co- * Facebook: facebook.com/hydrite * YouTube:

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hydrite -chemical-co- * Facebook: facebook.com/hydrite * YouTube:

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company Location: Waterloo, IA 50701 Duration: 24 Months (Possible extension/conversion) Shift: 2nd (3:30 PM - 12:00 AM) OR 3rd (10:30 PM ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

Foundry Manufacturing Engineer As a Foundry OFP Manufacturing Engineer, you will plan, coordinate, and perform manufacturing engineering projects across the foundry. Operating in a team environment ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Our client is currently seeking a Manufacturing Engineer Location: Waterloo, IA Duration: 24+ months As a Foundry OFP Manufacturing Engineer, you will plan, coordinate, and perform manufacturing ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

As a Foundry OFP Manufacturing Engineer, you will plan, coordinate, and perform manufacturing engineering projects across the foundry. Operating in a team environment, you will collaborate closely ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Chemical Engineer information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$39.4K

$86.3K

$138K

How much do chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineer in Waterloo, IA is $86,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $105,000.00 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 Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA?

For Chemical Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Chemical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $86,266 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Senior Chemical Cleaning

Trinity Industries

Shell Rock, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Trinity Industries rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Trinity Industries is hiring a Railcar Senior Chemical Cleaner at our Shell Rock, IA plant.
As a member of the Railcar Chemical Cleaning team at Trinity, you'll determine and complete appropriate cleaning process of product. You'll handle and maintain cleaning equipment and materials, including hazardous chemicals. The person in this position will apply knowledge of chemicals and cleaning procedures to assignments.
  • What you'll do:
  • Purge surfaces with water and/or non-hazardous chemicals
  • Operate hand-held blast
  • Maintain and troubleshoot equipment and work environment
  • Follow all safety rules and practices
  • May be involved in safety committees or initiatives
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What you'll need:
  • 2+ years of industrial/mechanical or related work or educational experience

What Trinity Industries employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom