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Entry Level Chemical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, OR at least 2 years of analytical laboratory experience. * Toxic chemical handling experience preferred, including safe work practices and ...

Process Engineer Responsibilities include: Entry level engineering graduate. Responsible for ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required * Applicants must have 0-3 years' experience in ...

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Entry Level Chemical Engineer information

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$40K

$87.5K

$140K

How much do entry level chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level chemical engineer in the United States is $87,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Chemical Engineer vs Chemical Technician?

AspectEntry Level Chemical EngineerChemical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemical EngineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and process optimization in labs or officesAssisting in plant operations and process monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, pharmaceuticals, energy, and research firmsManufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities

Entry Level Chemical Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on designing and improving chemical processes, while Chemical Technicians usually have technical certifications and assist in operational tasks. Both roles are essential in the chemical industry but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What Do Entry-Level Chemical Engineers Do?

Chemical engineers design and develop manufacturing processes for various chemicals. They work in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, food processing, environmental health, health care, and design and construction. Entry-level chemical engineers often shadow veteran engineers while learning specific responsibilities of the job before taking on larger tasks. As an entry-level chemical engineer, you can expect to research new methods for manufacturing chemicals, create processes for handling them, estimate the cost of production, and draft and implement related safety procedures to ensure the well-being of employees who work with those chemicals. Entry-level chemical engineers may obtain their first jobs after completing a bachelor's degree, but many get higher degrees to pursue careers in research or academia.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Chemical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chemical Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering principles, problem-solving ability, and a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or ChemCAD), laboratory analysis tools, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and clear communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for designing safe and efficient processes, collaborating across teams, and ensuring project success in a technical environment.

What are some typical projects or tasks that an entry level chemical engineer might work on in their first year?

As an entry level chemical engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of projects that support senior engineers and larger team goals. Typical tasks may include assisting with process design and optimization, conducting lab-scale experiments, analyzing data, and preparing technical reports. You may also help troubleshoot production issues or participate in safety and quality assessments. Collaboration is common, as you'll often work alongside other engineers, operators, and technical staff to implement solutions and improve processes.

What are entry level chemical engineers?

Entry level chemical engineers are recent graduates or those with limited work experience who apply principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, assisting in designing processes, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and ensuring safety and quality standards are met. Entry level positions provide foundational experience and training, helping engineers develop the technical and teamwork skills needed for more advanced roles.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Chemical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Chemical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Chemical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Chemical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Chemical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Chemical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,487 per year, or $42.1 per hour.
Entry Level Chemical Engineer

Entry Level Chemical Engineer

Actalent

Waverly, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Laboratory Technician – Gas Analysis

Job Description

The Laboratory Technician – Gas Analysis works in one of several analytical laboratories performing routine and non‑routine analysis of medical and specialty gases to detect impurities and verify product quality. This hands‑on role involves operating analytical instrumentation, connecting and handling gas cylinders, using laboratory software, and maintaining strict adherence to quality, safety, and regulatory requirements. The position offers the opportunity to support a growing industry with strong potential for long‑term career growth and conversion to a permanent role.

Responsibilities

  • Perform analytical testing of gas samples for impurities using gas chromatography and spectroscopic techniques to verify product quality.
  • Connect gas cylinders to analytical systems within ventilated cabinets, initiate analysis runs, and safely disconnect cylinders upon completion, with cylinder hook‑up and removal potentially taking up to 30 minutes per sample.
  • Operate and maintain gas chromatography systems, including GC and GCP‑type instruments, using Galaxy/Compass GC control software to conduct precise analyses.
  • Utilize Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometers to identify and quantify gas components and trace impurities.
  • Conduct analysis using CO₂ analyzers to measure carbon dioxide concentration and purity as required by product specifications.
  • Upload, review, and document analytical results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to ensure accurate data capture and traceability.
  • Perform routine calibration, verification, and basic maintenance of analytical instruments to maintain accuracy, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
  • Analyze finished gas products to confirm purity and conformance to internal specifications and customer requirements.
  • Calculate, prepare, and fill medical and specialty gas mixtures and pure gases using partial pressure and gravimetric techniques.
  • Test and certify incoming raw materials prior to use in production to ensure they meet required standards.
  • Process cylinders for shipment, including painting, labeling, valve preparation, and generating certificates of analysis.
  • Maintain complete and accurate quality control records and documentation in compliance with company policies and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Handle, move, and load gas cylinders as required to support testing, production, and shipment activities.
  • Participate in all required safety training and activities, and actively maintain a safe, compliant laboratory work environment.
  • Apply knowledge of chromatographic peak characteristics and instrument control to interpret results and troubleshoot analyses as needed.

Essential Skills

  • Experience working in a laboratory environment with a focus on chemistry, quality control, and analytical testing.
  • Hands‑on experience with gas chromatography techniques and chromatographic analysis.
  • Ability to operate GC and GCP‑type systems and use GC controlling software such as Galaxy/Compass for instrument control and data acquisition.
  • Understanding of chromatographic peak characteristics and related data interpretation.
  • Familiarity with spectroscopic techniques, including Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, for gas analysis.
  • Experience handling toxic and hazardous chemicals in a controlled laboratory setting, following established safety protocols.
  • Knowledge of gas handling systems, ventilated cabinets, and safe cylinder connection, disconnection, and movement.
  • Ability to perform routine calibration, verification, and basic maintenance of analytical instruments.
  • Competence in using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for uploading, reviewing, and documenting analytical results.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining complete and accurate quality control records in compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Ability to calculate, prepare, and fill gas mixtures using partial pressure and gravimetric techniques.
  • Capability to work rotating day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays, in a 24/7 operational environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, OR at least 2 years of analytical laboratory experience.
  • Toxic chemical handling experience preferred, including safe work practices and hazard awareness.
  • Open to entry‑level graduates with chemical handling experience gained through academic laboratory work or internships.
  • Background in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) or regulated laboratory environments is beneficial.
  • Experience as a laboratory technician or chemical engineer in analysis‑focused roles is an advantage.
  • Familiarity with concepts related to chromatographic order and peak behavior to support method execution and troubleshooting.
  • Ability to work accurately under time constraints while managing multiple samples and tasks.
  • Strong communication skills to document results clearly and collaborate with laboratory and production teams.
  • Interest in long‑term growth within a rapidly expanding industry, with potential for conversion from consulting to permanent employment.
  • Reliability and flexibility to adhere to a structured rotating schedule and maintain consistent performance across day and night shifts.

Work Environment

The role is based in a very clean and organized chemistry laboratory dedicated to medical and specialty gas analysis. The environment involves frequent handling of gas cylinders and extremely hazardous chemicals, requiring strict adherence to safety procedures, use of appropriate personal protective equipment, and compliance with regulatory standards. Laboratory equipment includes gas chromatography systems (GC and GCP‑type), Galaxy/Compass GC control software, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometers, CO₂ analyzers, gas handling systems, ventilated cabinets, and a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). The position follows a DuPont rotating schedule that provides 24/7 operational coverage, with structured rotations between day and night shifts. The schedule includes weekends and holidays based on the rotation rather than a traditional Monday–Friday pattern, and is published well in advance, offering longer stretches of time off compared to a standard workweek. The role offers 8 paid holidays and a vacation/PTO structure where consultants receive 40 hours of PTO for every 6 months of tenure, along with the opportunity to transition to a permanent position in a growing industry.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Waverly, TN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Waverly,TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 31, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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