EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Chemical Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$157,705/yr
Typical range: $135,615 – $203,206
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Chemical Engineer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Chemical Engineer Salary Progression in Los Angeles
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $116,203 | $9,684 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $141,104 | $11,759 | +21% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $157,705 | $13,142 | +36% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $178,621 | $14,885 | +54% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $229,087 | $19,091 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $268,928 | $22,411 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $278,888 | $23,241 | +140% |
Current Salary
$157,705
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $76/hr
Next Level Target
$178,621
Senior · 6
+$21Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Chemical Engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Chemical Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $158K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Chemical Engineer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $158K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $76/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Chemical Engineer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Chemical Engineer in Los Angeles, CA earns $203K–$244K/yr.