How to become chemical engineerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$125,040
25th–75th pct. $97,820–$157,190
Top pay (est.)
$237,700
Top 10% $182,880
Pay in 5 years
$141,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$160,000est.
$137,600–$185,700
Outlook score
51/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
68%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+4.7%
1,100 openings / yr
How to become chemical engineers
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Chemical Engineers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Processing InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsAnalyzing Data or InformationOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesGetting Information
Important abilities
Oral ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningCategory FlexibilityWritten ComprehensionInductive ReasoningProblem Sensitivity
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as chemical engineers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.