There are many jobs and options to choose from when it comes to the chemical engineering field, so we’ve put together a list of the top 5 industries that employ chemical engineers.
What is Chemical Engineering?
Chemical engineering is the study of the production, transportation, and use of chemicals and materials. It deals with the design and operation of chemical plants and the development of new products and processes.
Chemical engineers are involved in the production of a wide range of products, from food and pharmaceuticals to cosmetics and petrochemicals. They work in a variety of industries: manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, pulp and paper, food processing, and environmental protection.
Skills and Qualifications for a Chemical Engineer
To become a chemical engineer, you will need to have a strong background in chemistry and math. You should also be able to problem-solve and be creative. Most chemical engineering programs are four years long and include both classroom and laboratory work.
After completing your degree, you will need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam before you can become licensed as a professional engineer.
A chemical engineer is responsible for the design, operation, and maintenance of chemical plants and refineries. They work with a variety of chemicals and must be able to understand the properties and reactions of these substances.
In order to become a chemical engineer, you will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from an accredited college or university. During your coursework, you will take classes in chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
You will also likely participate in internships or cooperative education programs to gain experience in the field. After graduation, you may need to obtain a professional engineering license in order to work as a chemical engineer.
The skills and qualifications necessary for a successful career as a chemical engineer include:
- A bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from an accredited school
- Familiarity with the principles of chemistry and physics
- Understanding of the properties and reactions of various chemicals
- Knowledge of the equipment and processes used in chemical plants
- Internship or cooperative education experience in the field
- A professional engineering license (in some states)
Job Opportunities in the Field of Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering is a field with many opportunities.
There are many different types of jobs available in the field of chemical engineering. The job market for chemical engineers is expected to grow by 14% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS reports that the median annual wage for chemical engineers was $105,550 in May 2021. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.
The lowest 10 percent earned less than $62,730, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $187,430.
There are many different types of jobs available in the field of chemical engineering. Some examples include; process engineer, research and development engineer, manufacturing engineer, sales engineer, and project manager.
- Process engineers develop and improve manufacturing processes. They often work in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals industry, or oil and gas industry.
- Research and development engineers create new products and processes. They often work in the pharmaceuticals industry or chemicals industry.
- Manufacturing engineers develop and improve manufacturing processes and equipment. They often work in the automotive industry, aerospace industry, or medical devices industry.
- Sales engineers sell products and services to customers. They often work in the chemicals industry or pharmaceutical industry.
Conclusion
Chemical Engineering is a field with immense potential.
With the right skills and qualifications, you can land a chemical engineering job in this field and enjoy a successful career. We hope that our tips have helped you figure out how to get started in this field and given you the information you need to secure a job.