Salary distribution
Where Philadelphia chemical engineers fall on the wage curve.
Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)
The middle 50% of workers earn between $96,670 and $147,930, with a median of $120,300.
Typical entry
Education
Bachelor's degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None
Top skills (O*NET)
- 5.0 / 5
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge
- 4.8 / 5
Mathematics
Knowledge
- 4.8 / 5
Chemistry
Knowledge
- 4.4 / 5
Physics
Knowledge
- 4.3 / 5
Production and Processing
Knowledge
- 4.3 / 5
Design
Knowledge
- 4.3 / 5
Science
Basic skill
- 4.1 / 5
Complex Problem Solving
Technical
Common tasks (O*NET)
- 01
Monitor and analyze data from processes and experiments.
- 02
Develop safety procedures to be employed by workers operating equipment or working in close proximity to ongoing chemical reactions.
- 03
Develop processes to separate components of liquids or gases or generate electrical currents, using controlled chemical processes.
- 04
Troubleshoot problems with chemical manufacturing processes.
- 05
Evaluate chemical equipment and processes to identify ways to optimize performance or to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
- 06
Conduct research to develop new and improved chemical manufacturing processes.
- 07
Perform laboratory studies of steps in manufacture of new products and test proposed processes in small-scale operation, such as a pilot plant.
- 08
Prepare estimate of production costs and production progress reports for management.
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Explore coursesOther metros in Pennsylvania
How the Philadelphia metro compares to other major Pennsylvania metro areas for chemical engineers.
- Pittsburgh$133,880
Frequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Chemical Engineers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Chemical Engineers in the Philadelphia metropolitan area is $120,300.
- Does Philadelphia pay more than the Pennsylvania state average for Chemical Engineers?
- The Philadelphia metro median is +12.4% versus the Pennsylvania state median of $107,040.
- How does Philadelphia compare to the national median for Chemical Engineers?
- The Philadelphia metro median is +6.8% versus the BLS national figure of $112,605.
- What is the salary range for Chemical Engineers in Philadelphia?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $79,070 and the 90th-percentile at $178,270 for the Philadelphia metro area.
- What education is required for Chemical Engineers?
- BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Philadelphia CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.