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Chemical Engineer Salary in Santa Barbara, CA

How much does the average Chemical Engineer make in Santa Barbara, CA?


The average salary for a Chemical Engineer in Santa Barbara, CA is between $85,401 and $209,181 as of April 01, 2025. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the actual Chemical Engineer position you are looking for. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.

About Santa Barbara, California    Santa Barbara (Spanish: Santa Bárbara) is the county seat of Santa Barbara County in the U.S. state of California. Situated on a south-facing section ....More

Santa Barbara, California  area prices were up 2.5% from a year ago    View the Cost of Living in Santa Barbara, California

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Base Salary

Core compensation

$85,401
$209,181
$147,296
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What is a Chemical Engineer?

A chemical engineer applies principles of chemistry, mathematics, biology, and physics to create, develop, and to manufacture numerous products and substances using chemical processes. Chemical engineers may work in labs or factories producing pharmaceutical, food, or fuel products. They also may be involved with research and development of new products and processes. Chemical engineers often work with engineers in other disciplines to analyze and resolve problems with existing products or systems.


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Chemical Engineer - Expert/Consultant
Alternate Job Titles: Chemical Engineer - Expert/Consultant | Chemical Engineer V - Research & Development (R&D)

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... View job details

Chemical Engineer I
Alternate Job Titles: Chemical Engineer I - Research & Development (R&D) | Entry Chemical Engineer

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... View job details

Chemical Engineer I - Research & Development (R&D)
Alternate Job Titles: Chemical Engineer I - Research & Development (R&D) | Entry Chemical Engineer

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... View job details

Chemical Engineer II
Alternate Job Titles: Chemical Engineer II - Research & Development (R&D) | Intermediate Chemical Engineer

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... View job details

Chemical Engineer II - Research & Development (R&D)
Alternate Job Titles: Chemical Engineer II - Research & Development (R&D) | Intermediate Chemical Engineer

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... View job details

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Chemical Engineer

What degree or educational requirements does a chemical engineer need?

Chemical engineers typically require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or chemical engineering technology. Courses in mathematics, advanced chemistry, and science are required as a foundation. A master's degree or Ph.D. is generally preferred or required for higher level positions. Many universities offer cooperative education or internship programs with companies or government agencies to provide hands-on experience.

What are the best schools offering chemical engineering programs?

Some universities offering strong chemical engineering programs are Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Georgia Institute of Technology, University of California-Berkeley, University of Texas -Austin, California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, University of Minnesota, University of Delaware, University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Are chemical engineers in demand?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook (BLS), employment of chemical engineers, in general, is projected to grow about 8 percent from 2016 to 2026. The demand for chemical engineering will be strong as new manufacturing technologies are developed and processes need to be optimized. Alternative fuels and medical and pharmaceutical industries will drive demand for chemical engineers.

What jobs are similar to or related to chemical engineer?

Mechanical engineer, biomedical engineer, materials scientists, petroleum engineers, and nuclear engineers are other jobs that may be closely related to chemical engineering.

Where can I find more information about chemical engineer training and career opportunities?

Explore these additional resources for more on chemical engineering professions.
American Society for Engineering Education
Technology Student Association
American Society of Chemical Engineers
American Institute of Chemical Engineers

What is the working environment for a chemical engineer?

Chemical Engineers usually work part of the time in an office setting, and part of the time in a lab or at a plant or other facility where chemical processes take place. Chemical engineers may work with or close to dangerous materials, requiring strict adherence to safety procedures and may be required to wear protective gear.

Chemical Engineer Jobs

Job Openings for Chemical Engineer in Santa Barbara, CA