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Chemical Engineering Graduate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... engineering graduate. Responsible for providing process optimization and engineering support for ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required * Applicants must have 0-3 years' experience in ...

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Chemical Engineering Graduate information

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$40K

$87.5K

$140K

How much do chemical engineering graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineering graduate in the United States is $87,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chemical Engineering Graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Engineering Graduate, you need a solid background in chemistry, mathematics, and process engineering, typically achieved through an accredited chemical engineering degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (like Aspen Plus or MATLAB) and safety certification (such as OSHA training) is often expected. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills set successful graduates apart in both laboratory and industrial environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for solving complex problems, ensuring safety, and contributing effectively to multidisciplinary teams in chemical industries.

What types of projects do chemical engineering graduates typically work on in their first year at a company?

In their first year, chemical engineering graduates often engage in a mix of process optimization, data analysis, and hands-on support for plant operations or product development. They may assist senior engineers with troubleshooting production issues, running experiments, or implementing efficiency improvements. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as quality control, safety, and maintenance, is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of the business. This early experience helps new graduates build both technical skills and a strong professional network within the organization.

What are chemical engineering graduates?

Chemical engineering graduates are individuals who have completed a degree in chemical engineering, typically at the bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level. They are trained to apply principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to solve problems related to the production and use of chemicals, fuels, drugs, food, and other products. These graduates often work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, food processing, environmental protection, and materials manufacturing. Their education equips them with skills in process design, safety management, and problem-solving, making them valuable in both research and industrial settings.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineering Graduate vs Chemical Process Technician?

AspectChemical Engineering GraduateChemical Process Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical training
Work EnvironmentDesign, research, and development labs; office settings; some plant workManufacturing plants; production floors; operational settings
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, chemical companies, R&D departmentsProcessing plants, manufacturing facilities, chemical production

In summary, a Chemical Engineering Graduate typically focuses on designing processes, research, and development, requiring a bachelor's degree. In contrast, a Chemical Process Technician works directly on plant operations, often with technical training or an associate degree, and handles day-to-day manufacturing tasks.

More about Chemical Engineering Graduate jobs
What cities are hiring for Chemical Engineering Graduate jobs? Cities with the most Chemical Engineering Graduate job openings:
What states have the most Chemical Engineering Graduate jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Engineering Graduate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineering Graduate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,487 per year, or $42.1 per hour.
Chemical Process Engineer Counce Mill

Chemical Process Engineer Counce Mill

pca

Counce, TN

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 109 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Process Engineer

Responsibilities include:

Entry level engineering graduate. Responsible for providing process optimization and engineering support for the mill which will include but not limited to, compliance process coordination, lean projects, quality and product safety, and analytical and systems support. Develops and maintains methods for tracking and reducing operational costs. Coordinate the efforts of our outside resources to improve our operation by filtering and utilizing appropriate information. Conducts data analysis projects and uses data to make business decisions. Assignments may include some work at higher levels for training and development purposes. Successful candidate should have knowledge of pulp & paper making, waste-water treatment and recovery operations. Interest/aptitude in controls.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering required
  • Applicants must have 0-3 years’ experience in process engineering or production in the paper industry
  • Experience using Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, Auto Cad and Project

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with instrumentation and control systems would be preferred.

Knowledge-Skills-Abilities

  • Must be able to work well under pressure and within time constraints, multi-task, and build sound relationships with both internal and external customers
  • Must exhibit excellent communication, analytical, organizational and computer skills
  • Must be capable of independently making sound decisions through creative problem-solving
  • Must be capable of working with ambiguity and change

Preferred: Students that sign up for interviews through University during the Career Fairs and On-Campus Interview days will be given first consideration.


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