As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Chemical Engineer VI in the United States is $190,141 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $91.
However, a Chemical Engineer VI's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Chemical Engineer VI's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Chemical Engineer VI's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Engineer IV | 7+ years | $138,329 |
| Chemical Engineer V | 7-10 years | $164,822 |
| Chemical Engineer VI | 10-12 years | $190,141 |
| Chemical Engineering Manager | 12+ years | $148,071 |
| Chemical Engineering Director | 12+ years | $201,452 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Chemical Engineer VIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Chemical Engineer VI's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026For a Chemical Engineer VI, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Chemical Engineering Manager role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $148,071 - a projected growth of -22% over your current level.
Salaries for a Chemical Engineer VI can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $160,692 in 2023 to around $149,613 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Chemical Engineer VI salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $160,692 |
| 2024 | $155,388 |
| 2025 | $149,613 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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A Chemical Engineer VI's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Chemical Engineer VI earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Chemical Engineer VI is $239,825.
The highest pay for Chemical Engineer VI is $216,136.
The lowest pay for Chemical Engineer VI is $170,653.
Conducts research and development projects involving the study of chemical reactions and material properties to innovate and develop new products or optimize existing products. Designs experiments and builds prototypes and models used to investigate and support the development of improved chemicals, materials, products, and manufacturing processes. Compiles and analyzes testing data. Presents research results used to estimate costs, establish performance standards, identify solutions, and facilitate processes. Maintains lab and plant safety procedures for chemical storage, handling, transport, and disposal. Complies with all safety and environmental regulations. May require a master's degree in chemical engineering. Typically reports to a manager. Typically requires 12+ years of related experience. Achievement and depth of knowledge of specialization or field is the main differentiator. Advisory role on complex and challenging projects and initiatives. Recognized for deep technical and industry knowledge and innovative thinking. Provides thought leadership and guidance to a functional area and the organization.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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