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Chemical Engineering R&D Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Polynt S.p.A.

Process Engineer /Unit Lead

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$101K - $132K/yr

... by R&D. • Ensure new raw material, regulation, HSE, etc. needs are addressed during the new ... S. degree in Chemical Engineering • 5 - 10 years experience in a chemical processing environment ...

bp

Fall Co-Op Chemical & Process - Whiting, IN

Whiting, IN · On-site

$7.6K - $7.8K/mo

As a Process Engineer co-op at Whiting, you will: * Directly interface with Operations in support of the key production assets at Whiting * Practice chemical engineering fundamentals with heat ...

Linde plc

R&D Engineer - Campus 2026-2027

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$85 - $115/hr

R&D personnel areactively involved in step-change technological development, from conceptionthrough ... 3.5): * Chemical Engineering * Mechanical Engineering * Metallurgical Engineering * Material ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsChemical Engineering R&D JobsChemical Engineering R&D Jobs in Chicago, IL

Chemical Engineering R D information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52.5K

$100.7K

$153.5K

How much do chemical engineering r&d jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineering r&d in Chicago, IL is $100,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $147,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chemical engineering R&D?

A Chemical Engineering R&D (Research and Development) job involves designing, testing, and improving chemical processes, materials, and products. Engineers in this role work on developing new technologies, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring sustainability and efficiency. They collaborate with scientists, engineers, and manufacturers to translate research into practical applications. This role often includes lab experiments, data analysis, and scaling up processes for industrial use.

What does a chemical engineering R&D do?

As a Chemical Engineering R&D professional, you’ll typically work on projects such as developing new chemical processes, optimizing existing manufacturing techniques, and evaluating novel materials or catalysts. Daily tasks may include conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, scaling up processes from bench to pilot plant, and documenting your findings in technical reports. Collaboration is common with cross-functional teams, including chemists, process engineers, and production staff, to move innovations from concept to implementation. This role often involves balancing independent research with team-based problem-solving, making it both intellectually rewarding and highly collaborative.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in chemical engineering R&D?

To thrive as a Chemical Engineering R&D professional, you need a solid background in chemical engineering principles, experimental design, data analysis, and a relevant degree such as a BS, MS, or PhD in chemical engineering or a related field. Experience with laboratory instrumentation, process simulation software (like Aspen Plus or ChemCAD), and safety certification (such as OSHA training) is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork and communication skills set candidates apart in this innovative environment. These competencies are essential for advancing new processes and products while ensuring safety and efficiency in R&D initiatives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineering R&D jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineering R&D jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Engineering R&D jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Chemical Engineering R&D jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Engineering R&D jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Engineering R&D jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Chemical Engineering R D jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineering R&D job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,657 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Plant Operations and Leadership Talent Pool

W. R. Grace & Co.

East Chicago, IN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Description

We are building a talent pipeline for future openings at our various plant sites across the United States. We are seeking highly skilled and experienced Managers and Senior Chemical Engineers with a strong background in chemical engineering, extensive experience in plant operations, manufacturing, maintenance, and/or engineering within the specialty chemicals industry, and proven leadership abilities. Please specify preferred location(s) in your cover letter. We will be in touch with opportunities that you qualify for as they come! 

W. R. Grace & Co. is a global leader in specialty chemicals and materials, headquartered in Columbia, Maryland. Founded in 1854 and known for our innovation and growth, we produce fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts, hydroprocessing catalysts, polyolefin catalysts, and silicas. Around the world, Grace employees work together to deliver specialty chemical products, services and solutions to our customers-and their customers. We help industries manufacture everything from fuel to pharmaceuticals, toothpaste to tires, beer to biofuels, plastics to paint-efficiently, cost-effectively and sustainably.

Plant Site Locations:

  • Aiken, South Carolina
  • Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee
  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Columbia, Maryland
  • Curtis Bay, Maryland
  • East Chicago, Indiana
  • Houston Warehouse, Texas
  • Lake Charles, Louisiana
  • Norco, Louisiana
  • Pasadena, Texas
  • Houston, Texas
  • South Haven, Michigan
  • Tyrone, Pennsylvania
Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage plant operations to ensure efficient and safe production processes.
  • Oversee manufacturing activities, including process optimization, quality control, and troubleshooting.
  • Implement and maintain safety and compliance standards in accordance with industry regulations.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and execute strategic projects.
  • Mentor and develop junior engineers and staff, fostering a culture of growth and innovation.
Qualifications + Skills
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
  • 7 - 10+ years of experience in plant operations, manufacturing, maintenance, and engineering within the specialty chemicals industry.
  • Strong leadership and project management skills.
  • In-depth knowledge of process optimization, quality assurance, and safety regulations.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.

#LI-AV1 #WRGRACE

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
Life Insurance and Disability 
Grace Wellness Program
Flexible Workplace 
Retirement Plans  
401(k) Company Match
Paid Vacation and Holidays
Parental Leave 
Tuition Reimbursement
Company Donation Match Program
U.S. Employee Benefits Summary (grace.com)

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