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Chemical Engineering Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

... * Assist with resolution of production, product performance, application testing, and quality ... Qualifications (Required) * BS in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, or ...

Assistant Professor of Engineering Classification: Full-time, benefits eligible, tenure-track ... D. in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or closely related field; * Demonstrated ...

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Chemical Engineering Assistant information

What is a chemical engineering assistant?

Chemical Engineering Assistants support chemical engineers in designing, developing, and testing processes for manufacturing chemicals and related products. They often help set up and operate laboratory equipment, collect and analyze data, and maintain safety standards in the workplace. Their role may also include preparing reports, performing calculations, and assisting with research and development projects. Chemical Engineering Assistants are crucial in ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently within laboratories and industrial settings.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a chemical engineering assistant?

To thrive as a Chemical Engineering Assistant, you need a solid background in chemistry, mathematics, and engineering principles, often supported by a bachelor's degree or relevant coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and software like AutoCAD or process simulation tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, supporting accurate research, and ensuring efficient process development in chemical engineering projects.

What are common challenges faced by chemical engineering assistants when supporting research and development projects?

Chemical Engineering Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing project requirements, managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, and ensuring accuracy when collecting and analyzing experimental data. They may also need to quickly learn new laboratory equipment or software, and effectively communicate their findings to engineers and scientists. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams is essential, and strong organizational skills help navigate the dynamic and fast-paced environment typically found in R&D settings.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineering Assistant vs Chemical Technician?

AspectChemical Engineering AssistantChemical Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or technical diploma
Work EnvironmentAssists engineers in labs and plant operationsConducts experiments, tests, and process monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, research, and developmentCommon in production plants and quality control

Both roles support chemical processes but differ mainly in responsibilities. Chemical Engineering Assistants typically work closely with engineers, focusing on supporting design and analysis, while Chemical Technicians handle hands-on testing and process monitoring. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What can you do with an associate in chemical engineering?

A chemical engineering assistant with an associate degree can perform tasks such as supporting process operations, collecting data, and assisting with laboratory or plant maintenance. They often work under supervision in manufacturing or research environments and may need to develop skills in process control, safety protocols, and technical documentation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineering jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineering jobs in Virginia are:

Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

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Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

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213th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Two postdoctoral positions in heterogeneous catalysis are available starting as early as January 2, 2027, under the direction of Professors Ayman Karim and Bill Epling in the Department of Chemical Engineering.
There are two projects available for the selected candidates.:
Selective bond activation on supported metal single atoms and subnanometer clusters. The work is focused on building structure activity relations through controlled catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements and characterization using multiple in-situ techniques including calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAFS). Improved product yields via dynamic reactor operation. The work is focused on how changing plug-flow catalytic reactor inlet conditions, such as pressure, temperature and feed composition, can tune a catalyst surface for improved rates, selectivities and longevity. This will involve reactor design, kinetic measurements and catalyst characterization to determine the underlying mechanistic reasons for the changes in catalytic behavior observed.
In addition to independent experimental studies, there will be opportunities to train and to mentor graduate students within the Karim and Epling groups.
Job Responsibilities :
  • Develop catalyst synthesis methods.
  • Using plug flow reactors for steady-state and dynamic operation.
  • Characterize the catalysts using conventional and spectroscopic techniques (see required and desired qualifications above).
  • Detailed kinetic measurements.
  • Develop experimental protocols for calorimetry measurements of the catalysts.
  • Maintain lab reactors and characterization instrumentation.
  • To produce manuscripts to disseminate performed research.
  • To attend, contribute and present in National and International Meetings.
  • To provide guidance to students in the research group.
  • To assist in developing new research directions and in writing proposals.

Required Qualifications:
  • PhD in chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical engineering or related field is required by the start date.
  • Extensive experience in heterogeneous catalysis including catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements and catalyst characterization using infrared spectroscopy and other conventional techniques (e.g. XRD, BET measurements, gas chemisorption, temperature programmed reduction and oxidation).
  • Strong track record of scientific productivity and publications.
  • Experience managing more than 1 project simultaneously.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with others.

Desired Qualifications:
1. Experience working with a glovebox.
2. Experience working with lab-scale reactors at elevated temperatures and pressures.
3. Experience with calorimetry and Raman spectroscopy.
4. Experience with XAFS measurements and data analysis.
5. Experience with mass spectrometry and infra-red spectroscopy for gas-phase concentration measurements.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0086627. 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 October 1 , 202 6 and will continue until the position is filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
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 Ayman Karim at pqg9zx@virginia.edu .
For questions about the application process, please contact Richard 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 .

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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.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819