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Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Process Safety Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

As a Process Safety Engineer, you will lead site-level process safety initiatives, ensure ... Bachelor of Science in Chemical, Mechanical, or Agricultural Engineering. Physical Requirements and ...

As a Process Safety Engineer, you will lead site-level process safety initiatives, ensure ... Bachelor of Science in Chemical, Mechanical, or Agricultural Engineering. Physical Requirements and ...

As a Process Safety Engineer, you will lead site-level process safety initiatives, ensure ... Bachelor of Science in Chemical, Mechanical, or Agricultural Engineering. Physical Requirements and ...

Process Engineer III

Winchester, VA · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

A Bachelor of Science Degree in an engineering discipline * 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or chemical process operations managing the manufacturing processes and procedures of wood/plastic ...

Process Engineer III

Winchester, VA · On-site

$47.33 - $71/hr

A Bachelor of Science Degree in an engineering discipline * 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or chemical process operations managing the manufacturing processes and procedures of wood/plastic ...

A Bachelor of Science Degree in an engineering discipline * 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or chemical process operations managing the manufacturing processes and procedures of wood/plastic ...

Process Engineer III

Winchester, VA · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

A Bachelor of Science Degree in an engineering discipline * 8+ years of experience in manufacturing or chemical process operations managing the manufacturing processes and procedures of wood/plastic ...

Engineer, Production

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $139K/yr

Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Chemical, Process or Mechanical Engineering discipline is highly desired; however, candidates possessing a Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Process or Mechanical ...

Engineer, Production

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $139K/yr

Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Chemical, Process or Mechanical Engineering discipline is highly desired; however, candidates possessing a Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Process or Mechanical ...

Position: Senior Process Engineer Job Code: ENPCP4 + Staff Eng Location: Covington, VA The ... Required: Bachelor's degree or higher in science or engineering; chemical engineering preferred ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$45.1K

$100.5K

$160.6K

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

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level chemical process engineer in Virginia is $100,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level chemical process engineer do?

An Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer assists in designing, developing, and optimizing processes used to manufacture chemicals, fuels, foods, and other products. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure that processes run efficiently, safely, and within environmental regulations. Common tasks include data collection, troubleshooting equipment, preparing reports, and supporting process improvement projects. This role is a great starting point for recent graduates seeking hands-on experience in the chemical engineering field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level chemical process engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer, you need a solid understanding of chemical engineering principles, process design, and safety protocols, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS, and knowledge of process control systems, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in team environments and troubleshoot complex processes. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations and successful project outcomes in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level chemical process engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level chemical process engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of manufacturing plants, learning to troubleshoot complex equipment, and understanding intricate process flows. Navigating safety protocols and regulatory requirements can also be demanding, especially when balancing hands-on tasks with documentation and reporting. Additionally, collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including operators, maintenance staff, and senior engineers, requires strong communication and adaptability skills.

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

AspectEntry Level Chemical Process EngineerChemical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in chemistry or process technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, optimize, and oversee chemical processes; often in labs or plant settingsAssist in operating and maintaining equipment; work on the plant floor
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing plants, chemical companies, R&D facilitiesProcessing plants, manufacturing facilities, chemical production

Entry Level Chemical Process Engineers focus on designing and improving chemical processes, requiring a bachelor's degree, while Chemical Technicians support operations by maintaining equipment, typically with technical certifications. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Chemical Process Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,454 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Process Safety Engineer

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead and manage the process safety program at the site level.

  • Monitor, evaluate, and report process safety performance metrics at the site level.

  • Lead and facilitate local Process Safety Management risk assessments and incident investigations.


Perdue Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Perdue AgriBusiness is an international agricultural products and services company that handles agricultural commodities and a diverse portfolio of products and businesses. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we're committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
Drive process safety excellence across our operations by leveraging technical expertise, strong leadership, and effective change management practices. As a Process Safety Engineer, you will lead site-level process safety initiatives, ensure compliance with corporate standards and regulatory requirements, and promote a proactive safety culture throughout the organization. You will partner closely with plant leadership, engineering teams, and frontline associates to manage risk, support continuous improvement, and implement sustainable process safety solutions. This role is ideal for a collaborative, results-driven professional who is passionate about operational excellence, risk reduction, and creating a safe and compliant work environment.
The salary range for this position is $101,000 - $151,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).
In addition to the base salary, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.
Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage the process safety program at the site level.
  • Monitor, evaluate, and report process safety performance metrics at the site level.
  • Participate in Process Safety Management and process safety audits.
  • Manage actions required to resolve audit findings.
  • Ensure the local team adheres to Management of Change standards.
  • Review and approve or correct Management of Change requests.
  • Organize and maintain process safety documentation.
  • Provide Process Safety Management training to plant leaders and frontline associates.
  • Lead and facilitate local Process Safety Management risk assessments.
  • Lead and facilitate local Process Safety Management incident investigations.
  • Ensure timely execution of corrective actions resulting from risk assessments and incident investigations.
  • Collaborate with the project engineering team to provide process safety technical guidance related to capital projects.

Minimum Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
  • 2+ years of process safety experience, preferably in a chemical manufacturing or agricultural processing facility.
  • Experience applying the 14 elements of Process Safety Management.
  • Experience with a Risk-Based Process Safety program defined by the Center for Chemical Process Safety.
  • Strong change management skills.
  • Strong problem-solving, diagnostic, and analytical skills.
  • Demonstrate a continuous improvement approach.

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Bachelor of Science in Chemical, Mechanical, or Agricultural Engineering.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors
  • Move freely throughout the facility, including climbing vertical heights from 0 to 150 feet.
  • Work in extreme temperatures ranging from 0 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Work in humidity levels ranging from 0% to 100%.
  • Work in noise levels ranging from 50 dB to 100 dB; hearing protection is required.
  • Work around chemicals; Safety Data Sheets are available.
  • Travel to remote AgriBusiness facilities and customer locations.
  • Communicate by telephone and use standard office equipment.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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