How Chemical Engineers in Rhode Island get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Rhode Island compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $92,800 | $70,600 | $120,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $115,400 | $87,700 | $150,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $132,700 | $100,900 | $172,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $159,200 | $121,000 | $207,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $180,400 | $137,200 | $234,600 |
Top occupations by median pay in Rhode Island — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Rhode Island
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Chemical Engineer salary in Rhode Island is $132,700 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $100,900 and the 75th at $172,500.
Pay-wise, Rhode Island sits +6% above the national Chemical Engineer median ($125,200). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Chemical Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Rhode Island earn around $159,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $180,400 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Rhode Island ranks 18th for Chemical Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $175,300 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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