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Chemical Process Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75 - $105/hr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a staff Chemical Process Engineer for our Chicago, Illinois office. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Team and be a part ...

New

Process Safety Engineer II

Northlake, IL · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Process Safety Engineer II $105k-$120k annually ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Sun Chemical, a member of the DIC Group, is a leading producer of packaging and graphic solutions, color and display ...

Process Safety Engineer II

Northlake, IL · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Process Safety Engineer II $105k-$120k annually ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Sun Chemical, a member of the DIC Group, is a leading producer of packaging and graphic solutions, color and display ...

Chemical Process Supervisor

Lockport, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

POSITION PURPOSE NEXERPA's Assistant Plant Manager/Chemical Process Supervisor supports the ... Liaise with plant personnel, contractors, engineers, and vendors to ensure clear communication and ...

Process Engineer

Elwood, IL · On-site

$77K - $110K/yr

The Process Engineer will provide technical support in development and execution of Capital ... Experience in Chemical and related industries * Certified Six Sigma Green Belt is preferred ...

Process Engineer

Elwood, IL · On-site

$77K - $110K/yr

The Process Engineer will provide technical support in development and execution of Capital ... Experience in Chemical and related industries * Certified Six Sigma Green Belt is preferred ...

The Process Engineer will provide technical support in development and execution of Capital ... Experience in Chemical and related industries * Certified Six Sigma Green Belt is preferred ...

Engineer III Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$106K - $149K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering 6+ years of experience working as a Process Engineer within the Energy & Chemical Industries Experience in performing hydraulic analysis, heat and material ...

Process Engineer

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Growing Manufacturing Company in Butte, Montana has a need for a Process Engineer. This is a direct ... The position will require research and application of advanced chemical engineering theories ...

Engineer II Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$84K - $119K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering 3 - 7 years of experience working as a Process Engineer within the Energy & Chemical Industries Experience in performing hydraulic analysis, heat and ...

Lead Process Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering Experience:Min Yr = 10+ Licensure: P.E. Preferred ... Advance technical knowledge of refinery and chemical process unit operations and licensed ...

Process Engineer - Steel

Alsip, IL · On-site

$103K - $176K/yr

Conducts trials, analyzes results, and makes recommendations related to engineering and manufacturing processes, including process optimization, machine downtime reduction, chemical processes, and ...

Process Engineer - Steel

Alsip, IL · On-site

$103K - $176K/yr

Conducts trials, analyzes results, and makes recommendations related to engineering and manufacturing processes, includingprocess optimization, machine downtime reduction, chemical processes, and ...

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Chemical Process Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$46.9K

$104.4K

$166.9K

How much do chemical process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical process engineer in Chicago, IL is $104,378.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Chemical Process Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,378 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Chemical Process Engineer

WSP

Chicago, IL • On-site

$75 - $105/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a staff Chemical Process Engineer for our Chicago, Illinois office. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client’s objectives and solves their challenges. Join a team of professionals that delivers professional consulting services mainly for the industrial wastewater and environmental remediation industries. Tasks may include assisting with the development of processes and infrastructure relating to water supply, wastewater treatment, hazardous or solid waste disposal, air emission sources, pollution control, and preserving the quality of the environment by averting the contamination and degradation of air, water, and land resources. Generates accurate and concise documentation, ensuring that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards.

Your Impact
  • Assist with performing basic professional process engineering work related to a wide variety of water and wastewater projects for manufacturing and industrial clients in the mining, minerals processing, steelmaking & processing, chemical plants, battery manufacturing, food and beverages, and clean/renewable energy industries.
  • Under general supervision, collect and compile data from samples of water, soil, air, and other matrices for chemical analysis and impact; maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate and precise measurements.
  • Assist with verifying the characteristics of a site, providing entry-level technical assistance on various environmental, design, and construction issues.
  • Perform standard or routine calculations including mass & energy balances and equipment sizing; input data into and/or run standard or, in some cases, advanced computer programs under supervision.
  • Assist in the preparation of process-related drawings and documents including PFDs, P&IDs, other process schematics, datasheets, technical reports/specifications, equipment general arrangements.
  • May be responsible for preparing complete drafts of simple, non-complex technical work plans and reports under the supervision of senior staff.
  • Travel to various client sites, for field investigations, design verification/implementation, or oversight of contractor and/or subcontractors during construction activities.
  • Under supervision of the project manager or senior staff, represent WSP USA and interact in a professional manner with clients, regulators, and subcontractor representatives while on field assignments.
  • Generate complete, accurate, and concise documentation using electronic systems and field/work site notebook.
  • Understand and apply company, client, and site Health and Safety standards.
  • Complete training on assigned tasks.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Who You Are

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or closely related discipline
  • 1 to 3 years of relevant post education experience in environmental engineering.
  • Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.
  • Experience with and basic understanding of water quality parameters, water/wastewater treatment processes, and/or distribution/conveyance systems.
  • Familiarity with regulatory compliance and permitting processes.
  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, discipline-specific design software, spreadsheets, technology, and tools.
  • Must be proficient in MS Office Suite (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements; field activities may require working in unfavorable weather conditions or near hazardous materials and conditions.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Engineer in Training Certification.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.
  • 40-Hour OSHA Health & Safety Training (HAZWOPER) (29 CFR 1910.120) preferred.
  • Basic First Aid and Adult CPR training desired.
  • Knowledge of industry codes, standards and practices would be an asset.
  • Experience with discipline-specific design software (i.e., AutoCAD, ArcGIS, Revit).

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