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Phd Chemical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Senior Propellant Chemical Engineer

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$76K - $142K/yr

Master's or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Engineering or related science discipline preferred. * Knowledge of chemical principles, thermodynamics, polymer chemistry, structure ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Required Qualifications - PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Biological Sciences, Chemistry or related field. - PhD must be awarded no more than ...

Venturegloballng

Senior Engineer, Production

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$158K - $186K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering. Higher degrees (Masters or PhD) preferred. * 5-10 years of relevant industry experience. LNG experience is a plus. * Must possess deep interest in physics ...

Revel IT

Clinical Research Scientist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

MS with 5+ years of experience or PhD in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or related field * Proficient with scientific databases (e.g. SciFinder, PubMed ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

... chemical engineer to delineate how and why hepatitis E virus infects across species barriers and ... D. in virology, cell biology or related fields. - PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior ...

Merck & Co.

Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related disciplineTypically 2-5+ years' experience in API manufacturing, process development, or related pharmaceutical environment (PhD may offset ...

ARA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $148K/yr

PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 3-5 years of relevant mechanical design experience. * Experience designing equipment for chemical processing, energetics, or hazardous material manufacturing ...

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All JobsPhd Chemical Engineer JobsPhd Chemical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Phd Chemical Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$39.7K

$86.7K

$138.8K

How much do phd chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd 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 PhD chemical engineer do?

A PhD Chemical Engineer conducts advanced research and develops processes involving the transformation of raw materials into useful products, often working in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, or materials science. They design experiments, analyze data, and solve complex problems related to chemical processes, often collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Their work can also include teaching, publishing research, and leading innovative projects in academia or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD chemical engineer?

To thrive as a PhD Chemical Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of chemical engineering principles, research methodology, and a doctoral degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in simulation software (like Aspen Plus, MATLAB, or COMSOL), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and disseminate research findings. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, successfully managing complex projects, and contributing to advancements in the chemical engineering field.

What are the typical interdisciplinary collaborations a PhD chemical engineer can expect in industry or academia?

PhD Chemical Engineers frequently collaborate with professionals from diverse fields, such as mechanical engineers, materials scientists, biologists, and data scientists. These collaborations are essential, as many projects—like process optimization, product development, or sustainability initiatives—require expertise beyond chemical engineering. Effective teamwork is often fostered through cross-functional project meetings, joint research efforts, and shared laboratory spaces. Engaging in interdisciplinary work not only broadens your technical knowledge but also enhances your problem-solving skills and opens up new career advancement opportunities.

What is the difference between Phd Chemical Engineer vs Chemical Engineer?

AspectPhd Chemical EngineerChemical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Chemical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, process design, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, advanced R&DChemical, petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing

The main difference between a Phd Chemical Engineer and a Chemical Engineer lies in their education level and work focus. Phd Chemical Engineers typically engage in research, development, and academia, requiring a doctoral degree. Chemical Engineers usually hold a bachelor's or master's degree and work in process design, manufacturing, and industrial applications. Both roles are vital in the chemical industry but serve different purposes based on expertise and work environment.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd Chemical Engineer job openings:

Phd Chemical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Chemical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid 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 27 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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