Chemical Engineer Salary 2025: $125,040 Median, High Pay In New Mexico & Virginia
Chemical engineers in the U.S. earn a median $125,040 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2024 estimates. The typical range runs from $79,420 at the 10th percentile to $182,880 at the 90th. That works out to roughly $60 an hour at the mean. The profession employs about 21,070 people, with modest growth projected.
How much Chemical Engineers earn
The national median salary for chemical engineers is $125,040. The mean wage hits $129,980, about $62.49 an hour. Most chemical engineers fall between $79,420 and $182,880. The top 10% earn over $182,880.
Pay varies by industry. Those in research and development, petroleum manufacturing, or pharmaceutical production tend to land at the high end. Entry-level positions typically start around the 10th percentile.
- Median: $125,040
- 10th percentile: $79,420
- 90th percentile: $182,880
- Mean hourly wage: ~$62.49
Pay by state
Location greatly affects chemical engineer salaries. New Mexico leads at $158,190 mean annual wage, likely due to its national labs and oil/gas presence. Virginia ($136,380), Alabama ($135,030), Louisiana ($134,800), and Delaware ($133,670) round out the top five. These states have strong chemical manufacturing or energy sectors.
Lower-paying states include Wisconsin at $97,660, Utah at $85,520, and New Hampshire at $73,250. Cost of living differences account for some variation, but industry concentration is the main factor.
How to become a Chemical Engineer
A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from an ABET-accredited program is the standard entry point. Typical coursework covers thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, reactor design, and process control. Many programs include lab and design projects.
After graduation, a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam can lead to Engineer-in-Training (EIT) status. After four years of supervised experience, you can take the Professional Engineer (PE) exam for licensure, which is required in some industries like consulting or public works. Master's or Ph.D. degrees help for research or teaching roles.
- Bachelor's in chemical engineering (ABET-accredited)
- Pass FE exam for EIT status
- Gain 4 years of experience
- Pass PE exam for licensure (optional but valuable)
Job outlook
Employment of chemical engineers is projected to grow 2.6% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 1,100 job openings per year. Most openings stem from retirements and industry turnover.
Growth will be driven by demand in pharmaceutical manufacturing, specialty chemicals, and environmental safety. Energy and oil & gas hiring may remain cyclical. Overall, 21,070 positions exist nationwide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for chemical engineers?
New Mexico, with a mean wage of $158,190. Other top states include Virginia ($136,380), Alabama ($135,030), Louisiana ($134,800), and Delaware ($133,670).
What education is needed to become a chemical engineer?
A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from an ABET-accredited program. Many also pursue the PE license, which requires passing the FE and PE exams plus four years of experience.
Is chemical engineering a growing field?
Moderate growth of 2.6% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average. Roughly 1,100 openings annually.
What industries hire the most chemical engineers?
Chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, petroleum and coal products, scientific R&D, and food product manufacturing.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Chemical Engineers data.