Chemical Engineer Salary in Portland, Oregon
The median chemical engineer salary in Portland, OR is $125,387 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Oregon state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)
Portland offers a median chemical engineer salary of $125,387, which is $8,501 above the Oregon state average of $116,886. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Portland pays above average for this role.
However, Portland's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $125,387 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $106,260. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Portland should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Portland spans from $80,240 at the 10th percentile to $202,960 at the 90th percentile — a $122,720 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $82,600, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $191,160. As a major metro area with a population of 652,503, Portland typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Portland by Experience
In Portland, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $82,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $191,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Portland, OR
| Percentile | Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $80,240 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,120 |
| Median (50th) | $125,387 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $202,960 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Portland
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Portland and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Portland
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Portland, OR: