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Chemical Engineer

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Chemical Engineer Career Details

Chemical, process or biochemical engineers use scientific principles to develop processes that turn raw materials into useful products in a cost effective and safe way. Chemical Engineers may work on the manufacture of plastics, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, fuels, artificial fibres or any other man-made synthetic products.

Chemical engineering involves research, where engineers develop and test new materials and processes or adapt and improve existing ones; and conduct process development experiments in a laboratory, and convert these small-scale processes to commercially-viable large-scale operations.

They design and develop the machinery to be used in the production process, often using computer models and simulations, and install and commission the production systems in the plant.

Once a plant is in operation, a chemical engineer’s role changes from construction to production. They will then be responsible for the day-to- day operation of the plant, involved in maintenance procedures, monitoring and trouble-shooting, quality control, efficiency, and health and safety of the plant and the wider environment.

Fully qualified professional engineers usually hold incorporated or chartered status.

Chartered engineers are normally involved at a strategic planning level, researching and developing new designs, innovations and more efficient processes for the application of new and existing technologies. They are often project leaders and are responsible for teams of incorporated engineers and technicians.

Incorporated engineers specialise in managing the process of applying current engineering solutions in the most cost-effective manner. They have a detailed knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology, and have the skills and know-how to put plans into practice. They often hold key operational management roles.

Working Environment

Chemical engineers working in a research or development team are normally laboratory or office- based and work a 37-hour week. Those working on plant processing operations projects can work up to 50 hours or more a week, including evenings or weekends.

Laboratory work takes place under sterile conditions. In some areas there may be the need to wear protective clothing, shoes and eye shields.

Chemical Engineer Related Skills

To be a chemical engineer you should:

have an aptitude and interest in chemistry
have mathematical ability and be able to understand engineering principles
have good verbal and written communication skills
have analytical and problem solving skills
have a high standard of computer literacy
understand computer-aided design
be able to work as part of a team.

Chemical Engineer Career Opportunities

Further Career Information

If you would like to know more about a career as an Chemical Engineer related facts, statistics, articles and websites.

Career Steps

Not quite sure about a career as a Chemical Engineer? Try our step-by-step career guide to reaching your chosen career.

Career Courses

Not quite qualified to be a Chemical Engineer? Take a look at Postgraduate Chemical Engineer courses, Undergraduate Chemical Engineer courses, our course browses or use our search form and find courses which will help you on your chosen career path.

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