Chemical Engineers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | — | $121,860 | — |
| State Rank | — | ||
| Employment | 1,260 jobs | 20,330 jobs | 6.2% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | — | — |
| 25th Percentile | — | — |
| Median | — | — |
| 75th Percentile | — | — |
| 90th Percentile | — | — |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Chemical Engineers in California in 2026?
Chemical Engineers is an established career with a competitive salary profile.
How can chemical engineers increase their salary in California?
Chemical Engineers in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Chemical Engineers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Local Government, excluding Schools and Hospitals (OEWS Designation) | $140,960 |
| Local Government, excluding Schools and Hospitals (OEWS Designation) | $140,960 |
| Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services | $140,900 |