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Entry Level Chemical Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Chemical Process Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75 - $105/hr

Your Impact * Assist with performing basic professional process engineering work related to a wide ... entry-level technical assistance on various environmental, design, and construction issues.

New

Engineer, Electrical

Joliet, IL · On-site

$87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Engineering role is Entry level. Please see minimum qualifications *** * Entry Level - $87,000 ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or ...

Engineer, Electrical

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Engineering role is Entry level. Please see minimum qualifications *** * Entry Level - $87,000 ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or ...

Engineer, Electrical

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Engineering role is Entry level. Please see minimum qualifications *** * Entry Level - $87,000 ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or ...

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build ... Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * 0-2 years of engineering experience ...

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build ... Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field * 0-2 years of engineering experience ...

Engineer, Mechanical

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Please see minimum qualifications list below for each level*** * Entry Level - $87,000 * Mid-Level ... Bachelor&rsquos degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial ...

Engineer, Mechanical

Joliet, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Please see minimum qualifications list below for each level*** * Entry Level - $87,000 * Mid-Level ... Bachelor&rsquos degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial ...

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Entry Level Chemical Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$90.1K

$144.2K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level chemical engineering in Chicago, IL is $90,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $109,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level chemical engineer do?

Entry level chemical engineers typically assist with designing, developing, and optimizing processes for manufacturing chemicals, fuels, pharmaceuticals, and other products. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and helping with process improvements. Their responsibilities can also include ensuring safety compliance, preparing technical reports, and troubleshooting equipment or production issues. Entry level positions offer valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn industry-specific skills.

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 should have a solid understanding of chemical processes, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB), laboratory equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you stand out in this field. These competencies are essential for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative solutions to engineering challenges in various industries.

What types of projects do entry-level chemical engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with senior engineers?

Entry-level chemical engineers are often involved in a variety of projects, such as process optimization, quality control, and troubleshooting production issues. They typically work under the guidance of senior engineers, who provide mentorship and technical oversight. Collaboration is common, with entry-level engineers participating in team meetings, sharing data, and assisting with process design or improvement initiatives. This hands-on experience helps them develop practical skills and build a strong foundation for career advancement within the organization.

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

AspectEntry Level Chemical EngineeringChemical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in chemical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, process development, and analysis in labs or officesAssisting in plant operations, data collection, and equipment maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, pharmaceuticals, energy, and research firmsManufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities, and labs

Entry Level Chemical Engineering roles focus on designing processes and analyzing systems, requiring a bachelor's degree. Chemical Technicians support operations through hands-on tasks and data collection, typically with an associate degree. Both roles are vital in the chemical industry but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

Are entry level chemical engineers still in demand?

Entry level chemical engineers are currently in demand due to ongoing needs in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, and manufacturing. They often require knowledge of process design, safety protocols, and proficiency with simulation tools like Aspen Plus or HYSYS. Job prospects are generally favorable for recent graduates with strong technical skills and relevant internships.

What are some common entry-level job titles in chemical engineering?

Common entry-level chemical engineering job titles include Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Production Engineer, and Quality Control Engineer. These roles typically involve working with process design, safety protocols, and using tools like process simulation software, often requiring a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Chemical Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Chemical Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Chemical Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Chemical Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Chemical Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,124 per year, or $43.3 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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