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Junior Chemical Process Engineer Jobs in Arizona

Chemical Process Engineer

Tempe, AZ

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  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Chemical Process Engineer , you will support and develop electroplating and wet chemical processes used in the manufacturing of Solestial's solar cells and modules. This role will be responsible ...

The candidate will work collaboratively with the process engineering team, the quality team, and ... Chemical Processing: Operating wet benches, spin tools, and automated equipment to clean wafers or ...

The candidate will work collaboratively with the process engineering team, the quality team, and ... Chemical Processing: Operating wet benches, spin tools, and automated equipment to clean wafers or ...

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Junior Chemical Process Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$31.2K

$66.9K

$102K

How much do junior chemical process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior chemical process engineer in Arizona is $66,909.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,200.00 and $74,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a junior chemical process engineer do?

A Junior Chemical Process Engineer assists in designing, developing, and optimizing processes used in the production of chemicals, fuels, foods, pharmaceuticals, and other products. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure that processes run efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. Their responsibilities often include data analysis, troubleshooting equipment, conducting experiments, and supporting process improvements. Junior engineers also help maintain compliance with industry regulations and environmental standards as they gain experience in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior chemical process engineer, and why are they important?

A Junior Chemical Process Engineer typically needs a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, a solid understanding of process design, and knowledge of chemical safety standards. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), and experience with data analysis tools are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work well in multidisciplinary teams help set candidates apart. These skills are crucial for optimizing processes, ensuring safety and compliance, and contributing effectively to engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by junior chemical process engineers during their first year, and how can they be addressed?

Junior Chemical Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex plant operations, understanding safety protocols, and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. To overcome these, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced engineers, proactively ask questions, and participate in hands-on training sessions. Building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams can also ease the transition and accelerate learning.

What is the difference between Junior Chemical Process Engineer vs Chemical Process Technician?

AspectJunior Chemical Process EngineerChemical Process Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in chemical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and process optimization in labs or plant officesHands-on operation and maintenance in manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and R&D labsCommon in production facilities and plant operations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level engineering rolesCompared for technical, operational roles in chemical plants

The Junior Chemical Process Engineer typically holds a bachelor's degree and focuses on designing and optimizing chemical processes, working in labs or offices. In contrast, a Chemical Process Technician usually has technical certifications and is involved in hands-on operation and maintenance within manufacturing plants. Both roles are essential in the chemical industry but differ in responsibilities, qualifications, and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Chemical Process Engineer jobs in Arizona are:

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Solestial is pioneering the future of space-based solar power by developing advanced solar technologies optimized for the harsh conditions of space. Our innovative, low-cost, and scalable solar arrays are engineered for next-generation satellites, spacecraft, and orbital infrastructure. We are driven by a mission to power the space economy and unlock limitless opportunities in orbit and beyond.
 

As a Chemical Process Engineer, you will support and develop electroplating and wet chemical processes used in the manufacturing of Solestial's solar cells and modules. This role will be responsible for maintaining existing copper plating operations while leading the development, scale-up, and deployment of new nickel and gold plating processes.

You will work closely with Manufacturing, Equipment Engineering, Process Engineering, and Product Development teams to improve process capability, yield, throughput, and reliability. This role will also support wastewater treatment systems and help ensure safe, compliant operation of chemical processes across multiple manufacturing areas.

This is a hands-on engineering role that combines process development, manufacturing support, troubleshooting, and scale-up of new technologies.

Your Mission
  • Support and optimize electroplating processes used in solar cell manufacturing.

  • Develop, characterize, and scale new nickel and gold plating processes for production.

  • Support existing copper plating operations and continuous process improvement efforts.

  • Design and execute experiments to improve process performance, yield, and reliability.

  • Monitor critical process parameters and implement process controls to ensure consistent results.

  • Analyze process data and present findings to technical and manufacturing teams.

  • Troubleshoot process excursions, yield issues, and equipment-related challenges.

  • Partner with Manufacturing and Equipment Engineering teams to improve throughput and operational efficiency.

  • Support installation, qualification, and ramp-up of new plating equipment and process lines.

  • Develop and maintain process documentation, operating procedures, work instructions, and training materials.

  • Support operation and continuous improvement of wastewater treatment systems associated with manufacturing operations.

  • Train operators and manufacturing personnel on process requirements and best practices.

  • Follow safety requirements and contribute to a safe, organized, and compliant manufacturing environment.

What You Bring
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related technical field.

  • Experience working with electrochemical, electroplating, wet chemistry, semiconductor, photovoltaic, or related manufacturing processes.

  • Strong understanding of process development, process control, and manufacturing scale-up.

  • Experience troubleshooting complex process and equipment issues.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Experience analyzing process data and communicating technical findings.

  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

  • Ability to work safely around chemicals and manufacturing equipment.

What Gives You an Edge
  • Experience with copper, nickel, gold, or other metal plating processes.

  • Experience supporting semiconductor, photovoltaic, PCB, advanced packaging, or electronics manufacturing.

  • Experience with wastewater treatment systems or industrial chemical waste handling.

  • Experience with statistical process control (SPC), design of experiments (DOE), and yield improvement methodologies.

  • Experience transferring processes from development into manufacturing environments.

  • Experience working in cleanroom or high-reliability manufacturing environments.

Our Benefits
  • Competitive compensation - we want you to grow with us
  • Generous, high-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage on day one of employment
  • 15 vacation days, 5 sick days, and 10 paid holidays annually - with an extended holiday break at year's end
  • 401K with employer match up to 4% of salary
  • Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability and employer-sponsored life insurance
  • Your work will literally go to space!
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