1

Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Operator

Brandenburg, KY

$18.50 - $21/hr

At Monument, you'll find careers in several engineering and skilled trades roles and disciplines ... Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, we offer a diverse range of ...

The recently announced third fab will manufacture chips using 2nm or even more advanced process ... The Gas/Chemical/Slurry Engineer is responsible for sustaining, troubleshooting, and project ...

Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, we offer a diverse range of ... Working with the Site Leaders and mentor to provide data and chemical engineering support for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer information

See salary details

$40K

$87.5K

$140K

How much do recent graduate chemical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for recent graduate chemical engineer in the United States is $87,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering principles, process design, and a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Aspen Plus, MATLAB, and AutoCAD, as well as knowledge of safety and environmental regulations, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help recent graduates stand out in multidisciplinary teams. These competencies enable new engineers to contribute to safe, efficient, and innovative process solutions in the chemical industry.

What kind of mentorship and training can a recent graduate chemical engineer expect in their first role?

As a recent graduate chemical engineer, you can typically expect a structured onboarding process that includes mentorship from experienced engineers and participation in training programs. Many organizations pair new hires with a mentor who helps guide them through technical challenges and company procedures during the first several months. You may also rotate through different departments or projects to gain exposure to various aspects of chemical engineering, such as process optimization, safety protocols, and plant operations. This supportive environment is designed to help you build confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for more advanced responsibilities as you progress in your career.

What does a Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer do?

A Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer applies principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products. They often work under the supervision of more experienced engineers and are involved in designing processes, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and ensuring safety and efficiency in manufacturing settings. Their role may also include supporting research and development, troubleshooting plant operations, and helping to optimize processes. It's a dynamic entry-level position that provides practical experience and foundational skills for a career in chemical engineering.

What is the difference between Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer vs Chemical Technician?

AspectRecent Graduate Chemical EngineerChemical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemical EngineeringAssociate's degree or diploma in Chemical Technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, process development, and project planningOperating equipment, data collection, and assisting engineers
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, pharmaceuticals, energy, and research labsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, and production facilities

The main difference between a Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer and a Chemical Technician lies in their education, responsibilities, and work scope. Recent graduates typically focus on designing and analyzing processes, while Chemical Technicians assist with operational tasks and data collection. Both roles are essential in the chemical industry, but they require different levels of education and focus areas.

More about Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer jobs include:
Chemical Engineer (Rotational Program)

Chemical Engineer (Rotational Program)

Westlake

Deer Park, TX

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Westlake Chemical rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 88 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

SUMMARY

Are you a newly graduated chemical engineering student looking to GROW your career?

Graduate Rotational Opportunities at Westlake (GROW) is a leadership development program for newly graduated engineering students within the Performance and Essential Materials business segment at Westlake Corporation.

The GROW program is a 3 - 5 year rotational program that offers the chance to explore various aspects of the Westlake business. You will gain invaluable on-the-job experience, receive leadership and technical training, and work on exciting projects. If you are looking for an opportunity where you can demonstrate your ingenuity by solving real world problems, in an environment focused on enhancing our lives every day, we encourage you to apply for the GROW program.

During your time in the program, you can expect to rotate through different roles, such as:

  • Operations
  • Reliability
  • Capital Projects
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Process Controls
  • Business Management
  • Supply Chain & Logistics

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

You will work in roles and handle projects under the guidance of a mentor who is assigned to your designated area of focus. The assignments are designed to develop you as a leader and empower you to challenge convention and engineer creative solutions that enable product and process innovation. Through high performance teamwork, our engineers deliver solutions that allow us to manufacture and supply essential products that enhance the daily lives of people around the globe. Each rotation will provide valuable insight into various business processes while immersing you in local day-to-day operations. You will have firsthand experience dealing with real-world challenges, allowing for personal growth and further development as an individual and essential member of the Westlake team.

As you GROW, you will be:

  • Delivering breakthrough solutions
  • Monitoring and developing improvements to current processes to yield cost savings, quality improvement and/or overall increase efficiency
  • Developing your leadership skills
  • Continuously striving for highest level of performance
  • Doing everything with a safety mindset at the forefront of your work
  • Adding value for our customers

Once you complete the program, exciting post program opportunities await you. You could become a: Process Engineer, Production Engineer, Maintenance Engineer, Reliability Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Instrumentation Engineer, Continuous Improvement Engineer, or Project Engineer.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • B.S. or M.S. degree in Chemical Engineering
  • 0-2 years of relevant work experience
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Willing to rotate to different US locations every 12-18 months for a total of 3 - 5 years
  • Ability and willingness to obtain a Transportation Worker's Identification Card (TWIC )
  • Strong team building, leadership and problem-solving skills
  • Strong communication skills

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Additionally, this position must make general decisions requiring judgement and perform activities requiring sustained concentration.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is sometimes moderate when working in an office, however, some of the work may be required in the operating units which mandates usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs and elevators. Travel including air travel or auto travel may occasionally be required.

WORK LOCATION

Westlake United States PEM plant locations.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.


What Westlake Chemical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom