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Principal Chemical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related discipline * 2+ years of lab experience * Experience with Design of Experiments * Experience in formulation or new product development ...

S. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related discipline * 2+ years of lab experience * Experience with Design of Experiments * Experience in formulation or new product development ...

Sr. Staff Chemical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $218K/yr

This role will report to Sr. Principal Engineer, Data Sceince and is based in San Jose, CA. This is ... Apply first-principles chemical engineering to data-driven process modeling and optimization

This role will report to Sr. Principal Engineer, Data Sceince and is based in San Jose, CA. This is ... Apply firstprinciples chemical engineering to data-driven process modeling and optimization

PR

$54/hr

We're seeking a Principal Engineer to work at a premier pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry ... Chemical Engineer disciplines ). * Hands-on experience with Clean Utilities Systems (Distilled ...

New

We're seeking a Principal Engineer to work at a premier pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry ... Chemical Engineer disciplines ). * Hands-on experience with Clean Utilities Systems (Distilled ...

New

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Principal Chemical Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 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 are among engineering roles that can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation is often associated with senior positions in the chemical industry, working in specialized environments or managing large projects.

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, pharmaceuticals, or specialty chemicals. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and benefits, and reaching this level typically requires strong technical skills, leadership, and years of experience.

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 is the highest salary for a Chemical Engineer?

The highest salaries for chemical engineers can exceed $150,000 annually, especially for senior roles, specialized expertise, or positions in high-cost-of-living areas. Factors such as industry, experience, and certifications influence earning potential, with some top professionals earning significantly more through bonuses and profit sharing.

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 is the highest paying job in chemical engineering?

The highest paying roles for chemical engineers typically include senior executive positions such as Vice President of Engineering or Chief Technology Officer, as well as specialized roles like process engineering managers or consultants in the oil and gas industry. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and sometimes professional certifications, and they tend to offer the highest salaries within the field.

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
Chemical Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16497
Overview:
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.
We are seeking a Chemical Engineer who will focus on nuclear nonproliferation fuel cycle research. The candidate chosen for this position will be involved in work supporting the Nonproliferation Stewardship Program, the Nuclear Reference Material Program, and other related research efforts. This position resides in the Uranium Chemistry, Application, and Simulation Group in the Material Modeling & Characterization Section, Nuclear Nonproliferation Division, National Security Sciences Directorate, at ORNL.
This position will spend time performing hands on laboratory research as well as effectively communicating the results of the laboratory research in the form of technical reports, presentations, and journal articles. This position will also require some design work to create the infrastructure to pursue the hands-on laboratory work.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
The successful candidate, in collaboration with principal investigators and project management at ORNL, will be a participating member in projects that design, fabricate, assemble, and operate nuclear fuel cycle unit operations and processes. It is expected that this individual will leverage their knowledge and skills to design, test, and commission new systems and architectures within these projects. In addition to these responsibilities, the candidate will be a contributor to R&D projects that involve nuclear fuel cycle processes.
In this position the candidate is expected to effectively interact with various ORNL staff as well as internal and external sponsors. The candidate is expected to collaborate closely with co-workers and management and to independently drive assigned deliverables to completion, with periodic alignment, feedback, and mentorship; to fully document work performed in the forms of technical reports, papers, procedures, and presentations; and to participate in the development of research proposals. Excellent communication skills including verbal, presentation, and writing skills are required. The successful candidate will interface with principal investigators, management, engineers, scientists, technicians, operators, fabricators, and modelers.
All team members deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.
Basic Qualifications:
  • B.S. in Chemical Engineering or related field, and a minimum of 5 years related experience; or a M.S. in Chemical Engineering, and a minimum of 4 years related experience or related field
  • Proven communication skills
  • The ability to work flexible hours and travel
  • Demonstrated experience in chemical engineering design process to include developing the following products:
    • System Requirements Documents
    • Process Flow Diagrams
    • Material and Energy Balances
    • Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams
    • Design Analysis Calculations
    • Specification Sheets
    • Control System Narratives
  • Demonstrated Unit Operation Specification and Design
  • Familiarity with the Nuclear Fuel Cycle
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance from the Department of Energy

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated experience in multiple nuclear fuel cycle chemical engineering operations
  • Intimate knowledge of the uranium chemistry processes used in the nuclear fuel cycle
  • Demonstrated expertise in chemical engineering testing process to include:
  • Development and execution of test plans
  • Post-test analysis and documentation
  • Test equipment I/O calibration
  • Expertise in Matlab and/or Python programming
  • Experience and familiarity working with uranium chemistry
  • Experience and familiarity with vacuum systems
  • Experience and familiarity with working in radiological laboratory fume hoods and associated work practices

Special Requirements:
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • Q clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Q clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

Benefits at ORNL:
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain dedicated people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov
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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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