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Pilot Chemical Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Correlate advanced chemical analysis with mechanical performance testing derived from Universal ... Partner closely with the Manager of the Pilot Lab & Process Scale-Up to ensure that foundational ...

Correlate advanced chemical analysis with mechanical performance testing derived from Universal ... Partner closely with the Manager of the Pilot Lab & Process Scale-Up to ensure that foundational ...

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Pilot Chemical information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$21

$31

How much do pilot chemical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for pilot chemical in Indiana is $21.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pilot chemical?

Pilot Chemical jobs typically involve working for Pilot Chemical Company, a specialty chemical manufacturer. Employees in these roles may work in areas such as chemical production, research and development, quality control, engineering, or sales. These positions often require knowledge of chemistry, safety protocols, and manufacturing processes. Job responsibilities can range from operating and monitoring chemical processing equipment to developing new chemical products or ensuring regulatory compliance. Pilot Chemical employees play a vital role in producing high-quality chemical products for various industries.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a pilot chemical?

To thrive as a Pilot Plant Chemical Operator, you need a strong understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and a background in chemistry or chemical engineering, often supported by relevant technical certifications. Familiarity with process control systems, analytical instruments, and safety management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of pilot plants and the successful scale-up of chemical processes from laboratory to production.

What challenges do pilot chemical operators face and how can they be addressed?

Chemical operators in pilot plant settings often encounter challenges such as adapting to frequent process changes, troubleshooting new or unproven equipment, and maintaining strict safety protocols while scaling up reactions from lab to pilot scale. Flexibility, strong attention to detail, and effective communication with engineers and other team members are crucial to managing these challenges. Regular training, thorough documentation, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving help ensure smooth operations and safety compliance in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Pilot Chemical vs Chemical Operator?

AspectPilot ChemicalChemical Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, laboratories, or chemical production facilitiesChemical plants, manufacturing facilities, and processing units
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and specialty chemicalsPrimarily in chemical manufacturing and processing industries
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting in chemical production, quality checks, and equipment setupOperating, monitoring, and maintaining chemical processing equipment

Both Pilot Chemical and Chemical Operator roles are essential in chemical manufacturing, with overlapping responsibilities in plant operations and safety. Pilot Chemical often involves more specialized tasks related to pilot plant operations and product development, while Chemical Operators focus on daily production and equipment management. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Pilot Chemical jobs in Indiana?

For Pilot Chemical jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pilot Chemical jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot Chemical jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Pilot Chemical job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,468 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Chemical Engineer I - Energy and Energetics Lab (PEEL)

West Lafayette, IN • On-site


Purdue University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Free food

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Chemical Engineer I - Energy and Energetics Lab (PEEL)
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI) is seeking a Level I Chemical Engineer to support the PARI PEEL Lab. In this role, you will apply foundational chemical engineering principles while working with senior staff to design, test, and optimize chemical and energetic-material processes across laboratory, pilot, and full-scale operations.
You will contribute to the development of energetic production processes, precursor materials, and material-recycling methods. Key responsibilities include supporting lab and process operations; preparing technical and process documentation; implementing standard operating procedures; supporting quality assurance and quality control activities; conducting testing, sampling, data assessment, and process modeling; and maintaining a strong focus on safety and compliance.
Working under the guidance of senior staff, you will develop process flow diagrams, piping and instrumentation diagrams, process models, and technical reports. You will also assist with troubleshooting and root-cause analyses to identify process bottlenecks or malfunctions and help implement corrective actions. This role is ideal for an early-career engineer who is safety-minded, detail-oriented, collaborative, and interested in supporting applied research and development in chemical and energetic-material systems.
This position is contingent upon the award of a contract and continued contract funding.
At Purdue, you'll join a community where unrivaled pride and unlimited potential are more than just words-they're the foundation of how we work and grow, together. If you're ready to help build a better world through research that matters, take the next step and join us on this path.
About Us
The Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI) is a nonprofit entity that extends the reach and impact of Purdue University's deep research strengths and top-ranked academic programs in engineering, agriculture, science and technology. PARI works to improve national security, microelectronics, infrastructure solutions and to accelerate critical technologies.
Through applied research and program personnel, state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, PARI significantly enhances Purdue's ability to translate discoveries into innovative solutions and services for mission-oriented government, industry, NGO and foundation partners. PARI is an incubator for advanced development and transition of leading ideas and technology with potential for significant impact through large-scale prototypes, pilots, and startups.
What We're Looking For
Education and Experience Required:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering.
  • A minimum of one internship experience.

Candidates must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance to be considered for this position. Maintaining this clearance is a continuous condition of employment. Failure to obtain or retain the required clearance may result in termination.
Preferred:
  • Experience working with energetic materials.

Skills Required:
  • Proficiency with CAD software, process simulation tools, and data-analysis software, such as Aspen, CHEMCAD, MATLAB, and Microsoft Excel.
  • Ability to assist with the design, testing, optimization, and documentation of chemical processes in laboratory, pilot, and full-scale operational environments.
  • Ability to prepare process flow diagrams, piping and instrumentation diagrams, standard operating procedures, safety protocols, test reports, lab documentation, technical reports, root-cause analyses, and written or oral presentations.
  • Ability to conduct troubleshooting and root-cause analysis with guidance from senior staff.
  • Strong technical writing, oral communication, time-management, organization, collaboration, and independent work skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow instructions, manage priorities, and complete work according to established schedules and requirements.
  • Commitment to lab and plant safety practices, environmental regulations, quality assurance and quality control requirements, and chemical and explosive-handling standards.
  • Ability to work in a hazardous-material environment, including exposure to fumes, vapors, odors, toxic chemicals, heavy machinery, and biological and/or chemical materials.

Additional Information:
Purdue's benefits summary https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/employeebenefits/benefits_enrollment/summaries.php
Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
A background check will be required for employment in this position. Pre-employment checks are required for this position.
FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
Who We Are
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Career Stream
PARI Professional
Job Code #20003979
EOE
Purdue University is an EO/EA University


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