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Chemical Engineering Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Automationtechies

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

... commissioning and startup activities. You'll also collaborate with clients throughout project ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering preferred * 5-15 years of controls ...

Arcturus

Engineering Internship

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

... mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, chemistry ... Excited to work in a fast-moving startup environment where priorities can change quickly Preferred ...

LotusWorks

Commissioning Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Skills Required: * 2-5 years of commissioning, qualification, startup, facilities engineering, or ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a ...

nant

Engineering Manager | NantG Power

Culver City, CA · On-site

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or ... Experience leading R&D teams in highgrowth or startup environments. * Background in highvolume ...

Arbor Energy

Lead Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... startup environment. You'll drive strategy from clean-sheet concepts and advanced modeling through ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or related field * 7+ years of ...

Arbor Energy

Lead Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$170K - $185K/yr

... startup environment. You'll drive strategy from clean-sheet concepts and advanced modeling through ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or related field * 7+ years of ...

Oklo

Process Engineer - Fuel Recycling

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$100K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Degree in chemical engineering or related field * 7+ years of experience in chemical engineering or ... A startup person: You aren't driven by titles or hierarchy, and prefer efficiency to excess process.

Oklo

Process Engineer - Fuel Recycling

Santa Clara, CA

$100K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Degree in chemical engineering or related field * 7+ years of experience in chemical engineering or ... A startup person: You aren't driven by titles or hierarchy, and prefer efficiency to excess process.

Amrize

Senior Process Engineer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Preferred) Experience: * Minimum of 5-7 years of ... Direct, hands-on experience with the specification, installation, and startup of process equipment ...

Amrize

Senior Process Engineer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Preferred) Experience: * Minimum of 5-7 years of ... Direct, hands-on experience with the specification, installation, and startup of process equipment ...

Arbor Energy

R&D Process Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$140K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Aerospace, or related Engineering field. * 5+ years of ... Background in startup, R&D, or first-of-a-kind hardware development environments. Compensation ...

Raya Workforce

Principal Controls Engineer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Support system startup, commissioning, and field troubleshooting. * Develop and maintain PLC and ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsChemical Engineering Startup JobsChemical Engineering Startup Jobs in California

Chemical Engineering Startup information

See California salary details

$39.5K

$86.3K

$138.2K

How much do chemical engineering startup jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical engineering startup in California is $86,341.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $105,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced when working in a chemical engineering startup, and how can new hires prepare for them?

In a chemical engineering startup, employees often encounter challenges such as working with limited resources, rapidly shifting priorities, and the need to wear multiple hats beyond their core technical role. New hires should be prepared for a fast-paced, dynamic environment where adaptability and problem-solving are essential. Strong communication skills and a willingness to collaborate across disciplines—such as R&D, production, and business development—are highly valued. Being proactive in learning and seeking mentorship from more experienced colleagues can help you succeed and contribute meaningfully to the company's growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a chemical engineering startup, and why are they important?

To excel in a Chemical Engineering Startup, you need a solid background in chemical process design, problem-solving, and project management, typically supported by a degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or CHEMCAD), laboratory instrumentation, and potentially certifications like EIT or PE is highly valuable. Strong entrepreneurial mindset, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for navigating the dynamic startup environment. These skills and qualifications are vital for rapidly developing innovative products, solving technical challenges, and successfully scaling early-stage ventures.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineering Startup vs Chemical Engineer?

AspectChemical Engineering StartupChemical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related field; startup experience beneficialBachelor's degree in chemical engineering; licensure optional
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, innovative, often small teams, flexible hoursIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, corporate offices; structured environment
Employer & Industry UsageStartups, R&D firms, small to medium manufacturing companiesLarge corporations, manufacturing plants, consulting firms

While both roles require a chemical engineering background, a Chemical Engineering Startup typically involves working in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment focused on developing new processes or products. In contrast, a Chemical Engineer often works within established companies on ongoing operations, process optimization, and safety compliance.

What is a chemical engineering startup?

A chemical engineering startup is a new company founded to develop and commercialize innovative products, processes, or technologies in the field of chemical engineering. These startups often focus on areas such as sustainable materials, clean energy, pharmaceuticals, or advanced manufacturing solutions. They typically combine scientific research with engineering principles to address industry challenges or create new market opportunities. Success in this field often requires strong technical expertise, business acumen, and the ability to navigate regulatory requirements.

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

The most popular types of Chemical Engineering Startup jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chemical Engineering Startup jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chemical Engineering Startup job openings:

Chemical Engineering Startup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineering Startup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,341 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Automationtechies

Agoura Hills, CA • On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Join a successful, growing, nationally recognized engineering and system integration firm as a Controls Engineer supporting a variety of industrial automation projects. In this role, you'll design, program, test, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI control systems while working directly with customers to deliver innovative automation solutions.

Responsibilities include developing control system architecture, PLC and HMI programming, creating electrical and instrumentation documentation, designing control panels, integrating industrial hardware and networks, troubleshooting automation systems, and supporting commissioning and startup activities. You'll also collaborate with clients throughout project execution and may lead projects while mentoring junior engineers.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering preferred
  • 5–15 years of controls engineering experience
  • Proficiency with PLC programming and SCADA/HMI platforms such as Rockwell Studio 5000, FactoryTalk View, Siemens TIA Portal, Ignition, AVEVA, or WinCC
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and Profibus
  • Strong troubleshooting, communication, and customer-facing skills
  • Ability to travel up to 25% domestically

Why Join This Company?

  • Employee-Owned
  • Work on diverse, challenging automation projects across multiple industries
  • Opportunities to lead projects and mentor junior engineers
  • Collaborative team environment with strong opportunities for professional growth and career advancement

To comply with some state laws, the annual base salary range for this position has been provided. The range given is broad and should be considered as a guideline only. Our client will consider a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, the salaries of current employees in similar roles, and other factors when extending an offer.