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Principal Chemical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Honeywell

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL

$162K - $203K/yr

As a Principal Chemical Engineer here at Honeywell, you will play a key role in a team of chemical engineers to transfer our technology to our customers as also in the development and implementation ...

Honeywell

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$162K - $203K/yr

As a Principal Chemical Engineer here at Honeywell, you will play a key role in a team of chemical engineers to transfer our technology to our customers as also in the development and implementation ...

Honeywell

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$162K - $203K/yr

As a Principal Chemical Engineer here at Honeywell, you will play a key role in a team of chemical engineers to transfer our technology to our customers as also in the development and implementation ...

Honeywell

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL

$162K - $203K/yr

An excellent career opportunity is currently available for a Principal Service Manager within the ... Proven expertise in chemical engineering principles and practices * Strong problem-solving and ...

Honeywell

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$162K - $203K/yr

An excellent career opportunity is currently available for a Principal Service Manager within the ... Proven expertise in chemical engineering principles and practices * Strong problem-solving and ...

Honeywell

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

An excellent career opportunity is currently available for a Principal Service Manager within the ... For more information, go to www.uop.com You will report directly to our Sr. Chemical Engineering ...

Ecolab

Sr./Principal Chemical Engineer

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Microbiology, or a related technical discipline. * 2+ years of experience in product development, food safety, or related technical ...

Ecolab

Sr./Principal Chemical Engineer

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Microbiology, or a related technical discipline. * 2+ years of experience in product development, food safety, or related technical ...

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All JobsPrincipal Chemical Engineer Jobs

Principal Chemical Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal chemical engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Principal Chemical Engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles in the industry. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, particularly in large corporations or specialized sectors such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or petrochemicals.

Can a Chemical Engineer make 200k a year?

Principal Chemical Engineers in the industry can earn salaries around or above $200,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and working in high-paying sectors like oil and gas or specialty chemicals. Compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, and benefits, and reaching this level typically requires strong technical skills, leadership, and years of experience.

Can you make 300k as a Chemical Engineer?

Principal Chemical Engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and working in high-paying industries or locations can earn salaries around or above $300,000 annually. Compensation depends on factors such as industry, geographic region, level of responsibility, and certifications like PE or PMP. Typically, such high salaries are achieved through senior roles, managerial positions, or specialized expertise.

What does a Principal Chemical Engineer do?

A Principal Chemical Engineer is a senior-level professional who leads complex engineering projects, oversees technical teams, and provides expert guidance in the design, development, and optimization of chemical processes and systems. They are responsible for ensuring that projects meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards while also being cost-effective and efficient. Their role often involves mentoring junior engineers, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving innovation in process technologies.

What are the main challenges a Principal Chemical Engineer faces when leading multidisciplinary project teams?

A Principal Chemical Engineer often leads teams comprising professionals from various disciplines, such as process engineers, project managers, and safety specialists. One major challenge is ensuring effective communication and alignment of goals across different expertise areas, which requires strong leadership and interpersonal skills. Balancing technical oversight with strategic decision-making and mentoring junior engineers is also essential. Additionally, managing competing project priorities and adapting to rapidly changing regulatory or technological environments are common aspects of the role.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Chemical Engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles in the chemical industry. High salaries are often associated with senior positions, specialized expertise, and working in large corporations or high-cost regions.

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

AspectPrincipal Chemical EngineerChemical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering; often advanced certifications or extensive experienceBachelor's degree in chemical engineering
Work EnvironmentLead projects, oversee teams, strategic planningDesign, develop, and optimize chemical processes
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries like petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing for senior technical rolesEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries

The Principal Chemical Engineer typically holds more experience and takes on leadership and strategic responsibilities, while the Chemical Engineer focuses on designing and implementing chemical processes. Both roles are essential in the chemical industry, but they differ in scope and seniority.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Chemical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Chemical Engineer, you need advanced expertise in chemical engineering principles, project management, and a relevant engineering degree (often with a PE license or postgraduate qualification). Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), safety standards, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Leadership, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills are crucial for guiding teams and managing complex projects. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative delivery of large-scale engineering solutions.
More about Principal Chemical Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Principal Chemical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Chemical Engineer jobs are:
Principal Chemical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Chemical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Principal Chemical Engineer I Job

Arkema

Calvert City, KY • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Posting - Principal Chemical Engineer I

Location: Calvert City, Kentucky
Business Unit: DFL/DPT
Reports To: Technical Manager

Make an Impact at Arkema

Arkema is seeking an experienced Principal Chemical Engineer I to join our Calvert City manufacturing site. This role is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated chemical engineering professional to provide technical leadership, drive process improvements, and support capital project execution in a dynamic chemical manufacturing environment. 

As a key member of the site technical team, you will collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, safety, environmental, laboratory, and corporate personnel to optimize plant performance, improve reliability, and support business growth initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead process analysis, troubleshooting, and optimization efforts to improve safety, quality, productivity, and operational efficiency.
  • Apply chemical engineering principles to process technologies including reaction systems, distillation, heat transfer, and thermodynamics.
  • Support the design and implementation of new process technologies and facility improvements.
  • Provide technical leadership for capital projects, from concept development through startup and commissioning.
  • Partner with project management, operations, and contractors to ensure successful project execution within scope, budget, and schedule.
  • Identify and develop process improvement opportunities that enhance plant performance and reduce costs.
  • Serve as a technical resource for production teams by providing day-to-day engineering support.
  • Participate as a subject matter expert in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and Process Safety Management (PSM) activities.
  • Support product development activities, plant trials, and technology implementation initiatives.
  • Help ensure compliance with applicable environmental, health, safety, and regulatory requirements. 
Qualifications Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
  • Minimum of 8 years of chemical manufacturing experience.
  • Strong knowledge of chemical process engineering principles and industrial plant operations.
  • Experience supporting capital projects and process improvement initiatives.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
Preferred
  • Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
  • Six Sigma Green Belt certification or equivalent continuous improvement experience. 
What We Are Looking For

The ideal candidate is a collaborative technical leader who:

  • Uses data and engineering principles to solve complex process challenges.
  • Builds productive relationships across operations, maintenance, engineering, and leadership teams.
  • Drives continuous improvement and operational excellence.
  • Demonstrates a strong commitment to process safety and environmental stewardship.
  • Thrives in a manufacturing environment and enjoys mentoring and influencing others through technical expertise. 
Work Environment

This position is located at Arkema's Calvert City manufacturing facility and includes work in both office and industrial plant environments. The role requires adherence to all site health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. Travel is minimal. 

Why Join Arkema?

At Arkema, you'll work alongside talented professionals who are passionate about innovation, safety, and operational excellence. We offer opportunities to lead impactful projects, develop advanced technical expertise, and contribute to the success of a global specialty materials company.

Apply