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Phd Chemical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

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Senior Scientist

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$87K - $119K/yr

PhD in Electrochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science or related engineering or science with 2+ years in a laboratory and product development setting with emphasis on ...

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Senior Scientist

Knoxville, TN · Hybrid

$87K - $119K/yr

PhD in Electrochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science or related engineering or science with 2+ years in a laboratory and product development setting with emphasis on ...

Consolidated Nuclear Security

System Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Broad based understanding of operation and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, chemical and ... OR PhD in Engineering/Physical science. * There is a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) requirement ...

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micro1 AI

Bioinformatics Software Engineer

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$80 - $110/hr

Curate, annotate, and validate chemical and biological datasets (e.g., ChEMBL, PubChem, DrugBank ... advanced degree (PhD, MSc, PharmD) highly valued but not strictly required. * Strong coding ...

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All JobsPhd Chemical Engineer JobsPhd Chemical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Phd Chemical Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$38.2K

$83.6K

$133.8K

How much do phd chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd chemical engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $83,641.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $101,800.00 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 Oak Ridge, TN?

For Phd Chemical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Chemical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Chemical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Phd Chemical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Phd Chemical Engineer job openings:

Phd Chemical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Chemical Engineer job openings in Oak Ridge, TN 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 $83,641 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Oak Ridge Innovation Institute - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description


UT-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute invites applications for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate for the Fusion Technology and Materials for Extreme Environments Convergent Research Initiative. Experience in the areas of lithium chemistry, sintering, powder metallurgy and chemical engineering. This position requires a background in either Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or equivalent advanced degree (PhD) and demonstrate the ability to publish peer reviewed papers using sound principles and strategic approaches to their research.
This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon the continued funding of the grant.
The appointment would be a limited term appointment, approximately 6 months with the possibility of renewal.
Responsibilities
The position requires a background in either Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or equivalent advanced degree (PhD) and demonstrate the ability to publish peer reviewed papers using sound principles and strategic approaches to their research.
  • Applied research in the areas of lithium chemistry, hydrogen chemistry, sintering, powder metallurgy and chemical engineering.
  • Publish research in the form of reports and / or demonstrate the ability to publish peer reviewed papers using sound principles and strategic approaches to their research.
  • Laboratory management, including but not limited to Export Control, Inventory, Student Training, Chemical Inventory Management and Purchasing. The expected hardware for responsibility includes metallography tools, furnaces, glove boxes and simple, mechanical equipment.
  • Oversee radiological upgrade procedures, including documentation and adjustments to existing SOWs to Rad Worker I or II equivalent operations.
  • The candidate is also expected to leverage their capability in conjunction with the research team in the 2nd year, with performance metrics aiming for 25% recovery.

Qualifications
  • PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or equivalent advanced degree.
  • Knowledge and experience in laboratory management, including but not limited to:
    • Export Control
    • Inventory
    • Student Training
    • Chemical Inventory Management and Purchasing
  • Experience in the areas of lithium chemistry, sintering, powder metallurgy and chemical engineering.
  • Demonstrated ability to publish peer reviewed papers using sound principles and strategic approaches to their research, at least two first author publications in peer reviewed journals, with co-authorships from collaborations in the laboratory.
  • Experience in manuscript writing, conference presentations, and grant proposal support.
  • An ability to:
    • Conduct research and development within a collaborative environment.
    • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
    • Manage interpersonal conflicts skillfully.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
  • Strong team player with excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
  • Mentorship experience of undergraduate and/or graduate students (preferred).

Work Location
  • Location: Knoxville, TN
  • Onsite

Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and names and addresses of three references. For questions or inquiries please contact Dr. Caen Ang, email: cang@utk.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
About The Institute
The University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (UT-ORII) was launched by the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory in 2021, in response to America's need for a stronger pool of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) talent.
UT-ORII is leveraging its joint UT-ORNL resources to foster an earlier interest in STEM in Tennessee schools, grow its interdisciplinary graduate programs, and accelerate collaborative discovery and innovation in convergent research initiatives of critical importance to the nation and to Tennessee.
About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

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