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Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, we offer a diverse range of ... Required Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering or related career Experience Qualifications

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Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer information

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$40K

$87.5K

$140K

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

As of Jun 27, 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 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.

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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Chemical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,487 per year, or $42.1 per hour.
Hardware Designer - Recent Graduate

Hardware Designer - Recent Graduate

Proconex

Royersford, PA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Proconex is the exclusive Emerson Impact Partner for Emerson Automation Solutions in the Mid-Atlantic region. We provide a full portfolio of Process Automation Control Systems, Valves and Control Devices, and related technologies and services to a range of customers—in the Life Sciences, Chemical, Power, Refining, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Paper, Metals, and other industries, as well as commercial enterprises and campus facilities. With three strategically located offices, Proconex maintains a deep dedication to its 200+ employees, a sharp focus on safety and quality, and the drive to deliver.

Hardware Designer

Entry-Level AutoCAD Designer for Automation/Control Systems

Job Summary

Our company is seeking an Entry-Level AutoCAD Designer for Automation/Control Systems to join our internal project team.

The Hardware Designer position is responsible for the development, documentation, and support of automation control system design packages. This role is CAD design centric while bridging between detailed CAD design and hardware engineering for DCS- and PLC-based control systems, with primary emphasis on Emerson Process Management and Rockwell platforms.

As part of an internal engineering team, the Hardware Designer collaborates with engineering, CAD, fabrication, integration, and project management resources to support proposal development, detailed design, procurement, fabrication, testing, and delivery of automation control systems.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain 2D hardware design packages for automation control systems including mechanical, electrical, networking designs, wiring diagrams, wireless and BUS architectures, and Bills of Materials (BOM).
  • Support the design, review, and execution of automation control system hardware specifications and integration designs.
  • Execute assigned tasks, with defined goals, under engineering and CAD technical leadership with minimal supervision and outputs reviewed by Engineer of Design.
  • Assist with procurement, tracking, and staging system hardware and control enclosures.
  • Participate in system fabrication support and Hardware Factory Acceptance Testing (HFAT).
  • Coordinate with engineering, CAD leads, and project management to ensure designs meet scope, schedule, budget, and standards.
  • Maintain high design accuracy while adhering to department and project standards.
  • Support proposal and sales activities related to hardware scope estimation.
  • Increase efficiencies through the development and use of approved toolsets.
  • Participate in development and maintenance of AutoCAD and automation design libraries.

Requirements

Education and Experience

  • Associates or Technical Degree in CAD Design Technologies.
  • Applied use and working knowledge of CAD design using Autodesk software applications (preferred).
  • Formal training, education, experience in electrical or electro-mechanical technologies, or related Engineering discipline preferred.
  • 1–3 years of relevant experience in automation hardware or electrical design preferred.

Key Employment Skills

  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering specifications, engineering input, wiring diagrams, and standards.
  • Exposure to DCS and/or PLC control systems.
  • Strong attention to detail and document accuracy.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Self‑motivated with the ability to manage assigned tasks and priorities.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

If you are a detail-oriented individual with a passion for automation/control systems and are interested in this Entry-Level AutoCAD Designer role, please apply with your resume. We look forward to hearing from you!

We are proud to be an employee-owned organization. Through our ESOP, every team member shares in the growth and success of the company, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and long-term rewards.

Proconex offers a standout culture, fantastic work environment, and has very competitive benefits to include premium medical, 401K match, tuition reimbursement, and other unique incentives.

When receiving e-mails from a Proconex or Valspec recruiter, you will only receive e-mails from addresses ending in @proconexdirect.com, @proconex.net or @valspec.net. Any other domains are impersonations and should be ignored.

Candidates must be legally eligible to work in the United States without company sponsorship. Also, we are not interested in working on a corp-to-corp basis with other companies at this time.

Any third-party unsolicited resume submission(s) will immediately become the property of Proconex. Proconex will not pay any fee to a submitting employment agency, person, or entity unless a signed agreement is established.

Proconex is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other protected class. We are committed to providing a professional environment free of any discrimination or harassment, and we are proud to be a Drug-Free Workplace.