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Chemical Process Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering * 3+ years of process engineering or related experience preferred * Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics ...

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering * 3+ years of process engineering or related experience preferred * Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics ...

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering * 3+ years of process engineering or related experience preferred * Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics ...

Job Overview As a Process Engineer II, you'll build on your chemical engineering experience while continuing to receive mentorship from senior engineers and scientists who support your professional ...

New

Job Overview As a Process Engineer II, you'll build on your chemical engineering experience while continuing to receive mentorship from senior engineers and scientists who support your professional ...

New

As a Process Engineer II, you'll build on your chemical engineering experience while continuing to receive mentorship from senior engineers and scientists who support your professional growth. In ...

New

Position Requirements: 1. BS degree in Chemical Engineering from an ABET or IchemE accredited university is required. 2. A minimum of 5 years of process engineering experience is required. Experience ...

Position Requirements: 1. BS degree in Chemical Engineering from an ABET or IchemE accredited university is required. 2. A minimum of 5 years of process engineering experience is required. Experience ...

Senior Process Engineer

Charles City, IA

$94K - $121K/yr

A complete understanding of the core chemical engineering fundamentals (thermodynamics, heat ... Process Simulation and Modeling: Advanced use of software (spreadsheets, programming, simulators ...

Senior Process Engineer

Charles City, IA · On-site

$94K - $121K/yr

A complete understanding of the core chemical engineering fundamentals (thermodynamics, heat ... Process Simulation and Modeling: Advanced use of software (spreadsheets, programming, simulators ...

Senior Process Engineer

Charles City, IA · On-site

$94K - $121K/yr

A complete understanding of the core chemical engineering fundamentals (thermodynamics, heat ... Process Simulation and Modeling: Advanced use of software (spreadsheets, programming, simulators ...

Bachelor's degree in chemical or food engineering or related field preferred. * 3+ years of experience in process engineering or production optimization in a chemical, food, or pharmaceutical ...

Bachelor's degree in chemical or food engineering or related field preferred. * 3+ years of experience in process engineering or production optimization in a chemical, food, or pharmaceutical ...

Bachelor's degree in chemical or food engineering or related field preferred. * 3+ years of experience in process engineering or production optimization in a chemical, food, or pharmaceutical ...

Bachelor's degree in Engineering - preferably Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Sciences, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering. * 3 - 5 years of previous process engineering experience required ...

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Chemical Process Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$42.7K

$95.2K

$152.2K

How much do chemical process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical process engineer in Iowa is $95,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $107,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Chemical Process Engineer do?

A Chemical Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing processes used in the production of chemicals, fuels, pharmaceuticals, food, and other products. They work to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability in manufacturing plants by analyzing chemical reactions, equipment, and workflows. Chemical Process Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to troubleshoot problems and implement new technologies in production systems.

What is the difference between Chemical Process Engineer vs Chemical Production Technician?

AspectChemical Process EngineerChemical Production Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in chemical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, optimize, and oversee chemical processes in labs or plantsOperate and maintain equipment on the production floor
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, and energy sectorsChemical manufacturing plants and processing facilities

The Chemical Process Engineer focuses on designing and improving chemical processes, requiring a degree in engineering. In contrast, the Chemical Production Technician handles daily operations and equipment maintenance, often with technical certifications. Both roles are vital in chemical industries but differ in responsibilities, education, and work scope.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior chemical process engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in process optimization or management can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large corporations. Such roles often involve leadership responsibilities, complex project oversight, and may include bonuses or profit sharing.

What Is a Chemical Process Engineer?

A chemical process engineer’s responsibilities cover designing and developing processes for transforming raw materials into marketable products. You can hold a chemical process engineer job in an industry that processes natural gases, paper, pharmaceuticals, plastic, food, and other products. You will analyze procedures, communicate effectively with team members, apply math, science, and engineering concepts, and conduct experiments and report the results. Many types of chemical engineering careers exist in chemical production and manufacturing, mineral processing, oil exploration, sustainable engineering, and alternative energy fields. However, you can find chemical engineers with diverse duties in jobs in nearly every industry that creates a product.

Can a Chemical Engineer make 200k a year?

Senior chemical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in process optimization or management can earn salaries around or above $200,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living regions or within large corporations. Entry-level or mid-career chemical engineers typically earn less, with salaries increasing with years of experience, certifications, and leadership roles.

What is the role of a chemical process engineer?

A chemical process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes chemical manufacturing processes to ensure efficient, safe, and cost-effective production. They analyze process data, select appropriate equipment, and implement improvements, often using simulation tools and adhering to safety and environmental regulations.

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

To thrive as a Chemical Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering principles, process design, and safety regulations, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), knowledge of P&ID development, and relevant certifications like Six Sigma are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this role. These skills ensure that processes are efficient, safe, and cost-effective, supporting both operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

What are some typical challenges a Chemical Process Engineer faces when optimizing plant operations?

Chemical Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing production efficiency with safety and environmental regulations, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and integrating new technologies into existing systems. They must collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including operators, maintenance staff, and quality control, to implement process improvements. Staying adaptable and proactive in problem-solving is key to overcoming these challenges while maintaining smooth and cost-effective operations.

What do process chemical engineers do?

Process chemical engineers design, develop, and optimize chemical manufacturing processes to ensure safety, efficiency, and product quality. They analyze data, select appropriate equipment, and troubleshoot issues using tools like process simulation software, often working in industrial settings with safety and environmental regulations in mind.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Chemical Process Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Chemical Process Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Chemical Process Engineer jobs in IA? For Chemical Process Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Chemical Process Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,170 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 13 hours ago


Job description

Position Summary:

The Chemical Process Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, commissioning, and optimizing plating processes and production lines. This role leads the startup of new plating lines, ensures process stability, maintains chemical performance, and drives continuous improvement in quality, safety, and environmental compliance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Lead the installations, setup, and commissioning of new plating lines
  • Develop process parameters and operating procedures
  • Develop and optimize plating processes
  • Manage chemical inventory procedures
  • Implement root cause analysis and corrective actions
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, NADCAP, and local environmental regulations
  • Oversee wastewater treatment and chemical handling procedures
  • Develop standard operating procedures for plating processes

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Read, write and speak English fluently, demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, and maintain a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
  • Strong project management skills
  • Ability to work with cross-functional teams
  • Ability to train operators and technicians
  • Knowledge of plating processes

Education and/or Experience:

  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent work experience
  • Preferred Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field
  • 3-7 years' experience in plating or metal finishing processes
  • Experience with plating line startup or new process implementation preferred

Physical Demands Include:

  • Sitting, standing, and walking.
  • Use of fingers, hands and arms to operate office equipment.
  • Being able to see (20/25 vision with or without glasses) and hear (with mechanical assistance if necessary) sufficient to understand and comprehend individual one-on-one conversations.

Work Environment:

This person will work in the office area; temperature controlled environment with moderate noise. Often he or she will spend a significant amount of time out in the plant working with operators. The plant setting involves manufacturing equipment with others working in close proximity.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

PPE Requirements:

  • Safety glasses or side shields
  • Close-toed or steel-toed shoes/boots