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3 Poet Chemical Engineer Jobs Hiring Near You

Dakota BioWorx

Biotechnology CEO

Brookings, SD · On-site

This is a full-time, on-site job at the POET Bioproducts Center. WHAT WE'RE ALL ABOUT Dakota ... engineering, microbiology, industrial microbiology, or related disciplines) (advanced degree ...

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

To thrive as a Chemical Engineer, you need a solid background in chemistry, mathematics, and process engineering, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), safety regulations, and laboratory analysis tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and teamwork skills help Chemical Engineers excel in collaborative and dynamic environments. These competencies are vital for designing efficient processes, ensuring safety, and driving innovation in chemical manufacturing and related industries.

What are some common challenges chemical engineers face when working on process optimization projects?

Chemical engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing safety requirements with production efficiency, troubleshooting complex process issues, and adapting to new technologies or regulations. These projects typically require close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including operators, quality control, and maintenance staff, to implement changes without disrupting ongoing operations. Staying up-to-date with industry best practices and maintaining strong problem-solving skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges and drive continuous improvement.

What are chemical engineers?

Chemical engineers are professionals who apply principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology, and engineering to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products. They design processes and equipment for large-scale manufacturing, plan and test production methods, and oversee facility operations. Chemical engineers work in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, energy, food processing, and environmental health and safety. Their work helps turn raw materials into useful products safely, efficiently, and sustainably.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Senior chemical engineers with extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership roles in the chemical or process industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. High-level positions such as engineering managers or directors in large corporations may also reach this compensation level, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized expertise.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectChemical EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering; often licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE)Bachelor's degree in chemical, process, or industrial engineering; may also pursue PE licensure
Work EnvironmentFactories, laboratories, research facilities, and industrial plantsManufacturing plants, process design, and optimization settings
Industry UsageChemical, pharmaceuticals, energy, and materials industriesManufacturing, refining, and process industries

Both Chemical Engineers and Process Engineers work in industrial environments and often require similar educational backgrounds. Chemical Engineers typically focus on designing and developing chemical processes, while Process Engineers optimize and improve existing manufacturing processes. Their roles often overlap, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly based on project scope and focus.

What other companies are hiring for Chemical Engineer jobs?
What are the most popular jobs at Poet?
What are the most popular categories at Poet?
Infographic showing various Chemical Engineer job openings at Poet in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
Department Head and Associate Professor or Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering

Department Head and Associate Professor or Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering

South Dakota Mines

Rapid City, SD • On-site

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Logo
Institution
South Dakota Mines
Working Title
Department Head and Associate Professor or Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering
Posting Number
F01735P
Department
SDSMT-Karen M. Swindler Chemical and Biological Engineering
Physical Location of Position (City)
Rapid City
Posting Text
The Karen M. Swindler Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering (CBE) at South Dakota Mines invites applications for a 12-month position as Department Head and Associate Professor or Full Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering. A PhD in Chemical Engineering or in a closely related field is required for the position. The applicant should have a strong record of teaching, funded research, and service to warrant a tenured appointment, subject to the SD Board of Regents' approval. The successful candidate will join us in our mission to deliver excellence in undergraduate education and innovative, strategic research, promote fundraising and industrial relations, foster faculty development, and support collaborations with other academic programs. The Department Head supervises the CBE faculty and staff, reporting directly to the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs. The desired start date for the position is June 2026.
The CBE Department offers an ABET-accredited BS degree in Chemical Engineering, an MS degree in Chemical Engineering, and a PhD degree in Chemical and Biological Engineering. We produce outstanding engineers who are sought by both industry and top graduate programs. Our faculty have expertise in the multidisciplinary areas of renewable energy, advanced materials, bioprocessing, energetic materials, and polymer science and engineering. Department teaching initiatives include AspenPlus design across the curriculum, Design-Build-Test in the unit operations lab, international design experiences, a Bioprocess specialization, Polymer Engineering minor, and an Explosives Engineering certificate. Department research activities are sponsored by major federal agencies, the State of South Dakota, and industry, with annual research expenditures averaging $3.5 million over the past five years. The Department also leads strategic initiatives and centers on campus, including the Composites and Polymer Engineering (CAPE) Laboratory, CNAM-Bio Center, Tissue Engineering and Cell Culture Laboratory (TECCL), and the Soft Matter Characterization Facility (SoMa). The department also has strategic ties to the Poet Bioproducts Institute, Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), and Rapid City's Innovation District.
South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage options for employees, spouses, and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Individuals interested in this position must apply online at Careers at Mines (sdsmt.edu). Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at (605) 394-1203. Review of applications will begin November 7, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled. Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation. Those wishing further information about the search process may contact search committee chair Prof. Lori Groven at lori.groven@sdsmt.edu.
Posting Date
10/07/2025
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Consideration Date
11/07/2025
Advertised Salary
Duration of the Term
12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent
100
Tenure Status
Tenured
Proposed Rank
Professor
Work Hours
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type
Regular
Scope of Search
External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
Founded in 1885, South Dakota Mines is the premier destination for ambitious students seeking bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees at the intersection of innovation and tradition. Renowned for hands-on learning and pioneering research, Mines educates future leaders in STEM fields who will make a meaningful impact on the world. Our vibrant community of supportive faculty, tenacious students, and passionate alumni fosters a culture of ingenuity, collaboration, and lifelong success.
Nearly 2,500 students from every state and over 40 countries are represented on the Mines campus. The university is recognized for its rigorous curriculum and boasts a strong return on investment for its graduates. With an average class size of 24 and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Mines is committed to delivering an education that equips students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in their chosen fields.
At Mines, student life is vibrant and welcoming, offering more than 80 clubs and organizations that foster a sense of community and provide leadership opportunities. Co-curricular activities, such as internships, cooperative education opportunities, and professional development programs, ensure that students gain practical, hands-on experience in their fields while enhancing their academic learning. Students can explore their passions outside the classroom, from competitive athletics, music programs, and intramural sports to professional societies, competitive engineering teams, and cultural clubs.
South Dakota Mines faculty, staff, and students drive groundbreaking research across five main areas: advanced materials and manufacturing, deep underground science and engineering, critical and sustainable resources, smart and resilient cyber-infrastructure, and data science and numerical modeling. This research advances technology and innovation and offers students hands-on opportunities to address real-world challenges, preparing them for leadership roles in their careers and beyond. With a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, South Dakota Mines provides programming that empowers students and faculty to transform scientific and technological innovations into viable products and startups.
Rapid City, the home of the Hardrockers, is the state's second-largest city, with an MSA population of over 158,000. The city sees an average of 226 days of sunshine annually and is surrounded by many things to see and do. The region has roughly 1.2 million acres of breathtaking scenery in the Black Hills National Forest, 700 miles of motorized trails, nearly 500 miles of hiking trails as well as top attractions like historic Deadwood, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Badlands National Park, Terry Peak Ski Area, and Reptile Gardens.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
South Dakota Mines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. South Dakota Mines and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.
Contact Information
Those wishing further information about the search process may contact search committee chair Prof. Lori Groven at lori.groven@sdsmt.edu.

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