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New Graduate Chemical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Senior Propellant Chemical Engineer

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$76K - $142K/yr

Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum ... Master's or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Engineering or related science ...

ERG

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site +1

$110K - $155K/yr

ERG is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer or Chemical Engineer to join our Risk Management ... new employment. If you're a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have ...

ERG

Senior Process Safety/Chemical Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$110K - $155K/yr

ERG is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer or Chemical Engineer to join our Risk Management ... new employment. If you're a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have ...

The Lycra Company LLC

Research Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

Waynesboro, VA Come and be a part of a best-in-class global R&D team creating new fiber innovation ... Qualifications (Required) * BS in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, or ...

BCForward

Machining Manufacturing Engineer

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

... new machining technologies and process equipment * Demonstrate process ownership of established ... Graduate degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline ...

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All JobsNew Graduate Chemical Engineer JobsNew Graduate Chemical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

New Graduate Chemical Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$39.7K

$86.7K

$138.8K

How much do new graduate chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for new graduate chemical engineer in Virginia is $86,736.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a new graduate chemical engineer do?

A New Graduate Chemical Engineer typically works under the supervision of experienced engineers to design, develop, and optimize processes for producing chemicals, fuels, foods, pharmaceuticals, and other products. They may assist in conducting experiments, analyzing data, and implementing safety protocols in laboratories or manufacturing settings. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting process issues, preparing technical reports, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to improve efficiency and sustainability. Entry-level chemical engineers also gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software and equipment while learning about regulatory requirements. This foundational role helps them build the skills needed for more advanced positions within the field.

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

To thrive as a New Graduate Chemical Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, strong analytical skills, and a solid understanding of chemistry, thermodynamics, and process design. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), data analysis tools, and basic safety certifications is highly valuable. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help new graduates stand out as they collaborate on projects and adapt to industry challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative solutions in complex engineering environments.

What are some common challenges faced by new graduate chemical engineers during their first year on the job?

New graduate chemical engineers often find the transition from academic study to industry challenging, particularly when adapting to fast-paced project timelines and practical problem-solving in a plant or laboratory setting. They may also need to quickly learn to use specialized industry software and comply with strict safety and regulatory standards. Additionally, collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams—including experienced engineers, operators, and management—can require strong communication skills and adaptability. However, most employers provide structured onboarding programs and mentorship to help new graduates succeed.

What is the difference between New Graduate Chemical Engineer vs Chemical Process Engineer?

AspectNew Graduate Chemical EngineerChemical Process Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's in Chemical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Chemical Engineering; some roles prefer experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, office and plant settingsDesign, optimize, and troubleshoot chemical processes in industrial plants
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, pharmaceuticals, energy sectors; entry-level rolesChemical manufacturing, refining, petrochemicals; mid-level roles

The main difference is that a New Graduate Chemical Engineer is an entry-level position for recent graduates, focusing on learning and supporting projects. A Chemical Process Engineer typically has some experience and takes on more responsibility for designing and optimizing chemical processes in industrial settings.

What are popular job titles related to New Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For New Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching New Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for New Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for New Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most New Graduate Chemical Engineer job openings:

New Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various New Graduate Chemical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,736 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Senior Propellant Chemical Engineer

L3HHCM20

Culpeper, VA • On-site

$76K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Specialist, Materials & Process Engineering

Job Code: 42418

Job Location: Camden, AR OR Culpeper, VA

Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees work 10 hour days, 4 days a week 

Job Description:

The Missile Solutions Segment of L3Harris Technologies is seeking a Senior Propellant Chemical Engineer.  This forward-deployed propellant chemist role within the Propulsion Materials and Process Engineering team performs assignments requiring an application of advanced principles, theories and concepts in the propulsion field with an emphasis on propellant chemistry technology and manufacturing with a working knowledge of other related disciplines (thermal and structural), working directly with Propellant Operations. Experience in process control, lean manufacturing best practices, and manufacturing operations experience of items such as propellants, explosives and liners is desired.

Essential Functions:

  • Designs, develops and modifies processes and methods for the manufacture and utilization of various solid rocket propellants and energetics formulations.
  • Provides imaginative, thorough and practical solutions to a wide range of technical problems through the application of chemistry and/or chemical engineering disciplines and tools.
  • Participation in design processes including trade studies, supplier selection, concurrent design and development, materials characterization, data analysis, and drawing review.
  • Responsible for the preparation, execution and maintenance of materials and process specifications, and materials control plans (i.e. PMPP, corrosion control and contamination control plans).
  • Analyzes materials and material components to establish operating data, conducts experimental or laboratory tests and evaluates results. Selects materials for inclusion in products based on analysis of specifications and reliability.
  • Completes documentation and procedures for processing, testing and use of materials.
  • Drives corrective and preventive action to ensure continual improvement: Investigates and determines root causes of problems, develops and implements corrective and preventive actions, including leading failure investigations.
  • Ability to obtain a US Secret Security Clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Engineering and 4 years of prior related technical experience in energetic materials. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 8 years of prior related experience. 

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Master's or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Engineering or related science discipline preferred.
  • Knowledge of chemical principles, thermodynamics, polymer chemistry, structure/property relationships, kinetics, and data analysis.
  • Experience with energetic materials, statistical analysis, programming and experimental set-up and data acquisition is a plus.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia is $76,500 - $142,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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