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Chemical Process Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field * Passed FE and PE (Professional Engineering) preferred * 6-15 years of practical engineering experience * Strong understanding of process ...

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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 Jul 20, 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 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.

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 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 job categories do people searching Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for 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 July 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.
Process Engineer

Process Engineer

PMX Industries Inc.

Cedar Rapids, IA

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

As a Process Engineer, you’ll play a vital role in developing, implementing, and improving metallurgical and manufacturing processes to support production efficiency and material performance. You will work closely with cross-functional teams—engineering, quality, operations, and maintenance—to drive continuous improvement and solve complex technical challenges related to metal behavior, heat treatment, forming, casting, or welding.

Primary Duties:

  • Expected to follow all safety rules and policies and work in a manner that protects themselves and other stakeholders from hazards and injuries.
  • Performs process capability studies for all areas of the production process and provide technical support as needed.
  • Responsible for the development of new products and processes through process trials.
  • Daily review of coil performance in regards to metallurgical properties and quality.
  • Maintain database, evaluate data, and report results.
  • Initiate and monitor process improvement efforts.
  • Any other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering - preferably Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Sciences, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering.
  • 3 - 5 years of previous process engineering experience required; background in metals manufacturing or rolling mill environment preferred.

Skill Requirements:

  • Statistical/analytical methods for problem solving.
  • General understanding of PCs and related software experience.
  • Sound communication and organizational skills with the ability to plan work.
  • Familiarity with lab testing equipment.
  • Must be able to lead cross functional teams to identify root cause of any issues that may arise.

Work Environment:

  • Office environment; with frequent time spent in the production facilities.

Schedule:

  • Base schedule is a Monday - Friday day shift, but night & weekend work will be required on a regular basis as determined by production needs.

    Benefits:

    • 401(k) plan
    • Retirement plan
    • Vacation
    • Paid holidays

    Insurance:

    • Health
    • Vision
    • Dental
    • Disability
      • Short Term
      • Long Term
    • Life insurance
      • Employee
      • Dependent

    Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug and background screening.

    ____________________________________________________________________

    About the Company:

    PMX Industries is the leading supplier of high quality copper and copper alloys in North America.

    Since our founding, we have been committed to continually improving our safety and environmental performance through ongoing training and new technology. Safety is a top priority. PMX employees also have an active recycling program of metals, cardboard, plastic, and paper. We believe there are direct links between worker safety, quality systems, environmental performance, and economic success.

    Business is conducted in accordance with company policies which are based on respect and accountability. PMX has earned a reputation for integrity and consistently meeting high standards. We support our communities and strive to be good neighbors. We know that business success begins with our employees!

    We go far beyond simple compliance with federal and state regulations. We are dedicated to creating value for all that we serve.

    All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to the individual's race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, status as a military veteran or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.


    PMX Industries logo

    About PMX Industries

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Industry

    Coal, metals and minerals mining

    Company size

    201 - 500 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Cedar Rapids, IA, US

    Year founded

    1992