Chemical Engineering Intern Jobs in Rochester, NY

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical engineering intern in Rochester, NY is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Yes, chemical engineering students can pursue internships to gain practical experience in areas such as process design, safety protocols, and laboratory work. Internships often require relevant coursework, good academic standing, and sometimes prior knowledge of industry tools like process simulation software. These opportunities typically occur during summer or academic breaks and can enhance future employment prospects.

Chemical engineering interns are students or recent graduates who work temporarily in a professional setting to gain hands-on experience in the field of chemical engineering. They typically assist with laboratory experiments, data analysis, process optimization, and may help in the design or operation of chemical processes. These internships provide valuable practical skills and exposure to real-world engineering challenges, helping interns apply their academic knowledge and prepare for a future career in chemical engineering.

For a chemical engineering intern, $20 an hour is generally considered above average, as many internships pay between $15 and $20 per hour. The pay can vary based on location, company size, and the intern's level of education or experience. It is also important to consider the value of hands-on experience and skill development during the internship.

To thrive as a Chemical Engineering Intern, you need a solid understanding of chemical engineering principles, laboratory techniques, and relevant coursework in chemistry and process engineering. Familiarity with simulation software such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB, as well as safety protocols and laboratory equipment, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help interns contribute meaningfully to projects and collaborate with senior engineers. These skills and qualities are crucial for translating classroom knowledge into practical solutions and ensuring safety and efficiency in real-world engineering environments.

As a Chemical Engineering Intern, you can typically expect to assist with process optimization, laboratory experiments, data analysis, and equipment troubleshooting under the guidance of experienced engineers. You may also participate in team meetings, contribute to safety and quality improvement initiatives, and help prepare technical reports. Interns often collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, production, and quality assurance, which provides a well-rounded experience and valuable networking opportunities. The variety and scope of your projects will depend on the specific industry and company, but hands-on involvement and mentorship are common across most internships.

Chemical engineering interns typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on factors such as location, company size, and level of education. Interns often work part-time during the school year or full-time in the summer, gaining practical experience in process design, safety protocols, and laboratory work.

The best internship for chemical engineering students typically involves roles in process engineering, research and development, or manufacturing, providing hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like Aspen HYSYS or MATLAB. Internships at manufacturing plants, chemical companies, or research labs that offer mentorship and exposure to safety protocols are highly valuable for skill development and career growth.