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Chemical Engineering Energy Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Process Engineer

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Chemical Engineering undergraduate degree from an ABET accredited school Job Responsibilities ... Develop and/or verify mass and energy balances * Maintain familiarity with various industrial codes ...

Senior Process Engineer

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

Chemical Engineering undergraduate degree from an ABET accredited school Job Responsibilities ... Develop and/or verify mass and energy balances * Maintain familiarity with various industrial codes ...

Senior Process Engineer

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

Chemical Engineering undergraduate degree from an ABET accredited school Job Responsibilities ... Develop and/or verify mass and energy balances * Maintain familiarity with various industrial codes ...

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Chemical Engineering Energy information

What is chemical engineering in the energy sector?

Chemical engineering in the energy sector involves applying principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to develop and optimize processes for producing, converting, and utilizing energy. Chemical engineers work on technologies such as oil refining, biofuels, batteries, hydrogen production, and renewable energy systems. Their goal is to make energy production more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable. They also help design and operate facilities that minimize waste and reduce emissions, contributing to cleaner energy solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical engineering energy professional?

To excel in Chemical Engineering Energy, a strong background in chemical engineering principles, thermodynamics, and energy systems is essential, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), energy management tools, and relevant certifications (like Professional Engineer licensure) is highly valuable. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help professionals navigate complex projects and drive innovation. These competencies enable efficient energy production, sustainable process design, and successful project outcomes in the evolving energy sector.

What are some typical interdisciplinary collaborations for a chemical engineering energy professional?

Chemical Engineering Energy professionals frequently collaborate with experts from mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering, as well as research scientists and project managers. These collaborations are essential when developing and optimizing energy conversion systems, designing sustainable processes, or integrating renewable energy solutions. Working in cross-functional teams helps address challenges such as process efficiency, emissions reduction, and regulatory compliance, enriching both daily tasks and long-term project outcomes. Such teamwork not only broadens your technical perspective but also enhances your communication and project management skills.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineering Energy vs Chemical Engineering Process?

AspectChemical Engineering EnergyChemical Engineering Process
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Chemical Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's or higher in Chemical Engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentEnergy plants, refineries, power generation facilitiesManufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities
Industry UsageFocus on energy production, renewable energy, and fuel optimizationFocus on chemical production, process design, and safety

Both roles require a chemical engineering background and similar credentials. Chemical Engineering Energy specialists focus on energy-related projects like power plants and renewable energy, while Chemical Engineering Process professionals work on chemical manufacturing and process optimization. The main difference lies in their industry focus and work environment.

Do chemical engineers work in energy?

Yes, chemical engineers often work in the energy sector, including oil and gas, renewable energy, and power generation. They design processes, optimize production, and develop new energy technologies using skills in process engineering, thermodynamics, and safety standards.

What job categories do people searching Chemical Engineering Energy jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Engineering Energy jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineering Energy job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Professor (Tenure-line) Faculty in Chemical Engineering (Clean Energy and Chemicals)

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct research in energy-related areas such as membrane science, electrolysis, fuel cells, chemical conversion devices, and electrochemical systems.

  • Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in chemical engineering and advise students.

  • Contribute to service activities within the department, university, and professional community.


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The School of Engineering & Applied Science (SEAS) at the University of Virginia (UVA) seeks candidates for a tenure-track assistant professor position in the Department of Chemical Engineering (https://engineering.virginia.edu/department/chemical-engineering). The position is part of UVA's Catalysis Initiative for Clean Energy and Chemicals The primary responsibilities for this position include research, teaching, and service to the department, university, and professional community.
The new faculty member will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community in the Department of Chemical Engineering, which offers a collegial and supportive environment and many opportunities for collaboration within and between SEAS and the College of Arts & Sciences. We will prioritize research areas that complement existing UVA strengths and/or bring new expertise in energy-related areas including emphasis in membrane science and technology, electrolysis, fuel cells, chemical conversion devices, and/or electrochemical systems.
The University of Virginia's 2030 plan recognizes Environmental Resilience and Sustainability as a major societal challenge and an opportunity for multidisciplinary work that draws on our existing strengths. In partnership the Provost and the deans of various schools are making multiple coordinated faculty recruitments to strengthen the research community focusing on Environmental Resilience and Sustainability across the University. Recruits will receive support from the Provost and from their school and will participate in the UVA Climate Collaborative initiative. This is part of a major Grand Challenges research investment of over $50M in Environmental Resilience and Sustainability. This position is based in Charlottesville, Virginia, which is UVA's principal location. UVA is a highly selective undergraduate and graduate institution that annually ranks as one of the premiere public universities in the United States, with one of the highest graduation rates in the nation. Charlottesville is a picturesque and vibrant small city consistently recognized as one of the nation's top places to reside. UVA's location offers proximity to Washington D.C. and enriching opportunities for collaboration and engagement with numerous federal organizations. More information about the city, the school, faculty benefits and other topics can be found at https://hr.virginia.edu/careers-uva/why-uva.
Qualifications
Candidates must have received a doctorate or equivalent in chemical engineering or a related field by the start of their appointment. Evidence of a commitment to high-impact scholarship, funded research, undergraduate- and graduate-level teaching and advising excellence, professional and university service, and mentoring are expected.
In conjunction with this position, senior graduate students are eligible and encouraged to consider the UVA Engineering Rising Scholars program. This program is designed to encourage outstanding early-career scholars to pursue a career in academia by supporting their postdoctoral work before beginning in a tenure-track position at the University of Virginia. Detailed information and application instructions are available at https://engineering.virginia.edu/rising-scholars-postdoctoral-program.
Application Instructions
Apply for this position in Interfolio. Provide the following in PDF format:
  • Cover letter that summarizes your areas of research/scholarship, and areas of potential collaboration at the University of Virginia. To help us organize our review of applications, please also specifically list your primary areas of research in boldface at the top of your letter.
  • Curriculum vitae;
  • A statement describing your current research, future directions, and broader impacts; (no more than 5 pages)
  • A statement describing your teaching and mentoring practices, especially in regard to a residential learning environment marked by the free and collegial exchange of ideas; (1 page)
  • The name and contact information of three references;
  • A single file that includes two research papers that best represent your work.

Review of applications will begin on October 7, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. The University will perform background checks on all new faculty hires prior to making a final offer of employment.
For questions about this position, please contact: CHE_Fac_Search_2026@virginia.edu

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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.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819