Chemical Engineers
Overview
Chemical engineers use chemistry, biology, physics, and math to design processes that turn raw materials into everyday products like medicines, fuels, foods, and cosmetics. They work with cutting-edge technology and computer simulations to design large-scale manufacturing equipment, establish safety procedures for handling dangerous chemicals, and troubleshoot production problems. These professionals collaborate with teams to ensure processes meet environmental regulations while estimating costs for management. A strong background in STEM subjects and problem-solving skills are essential for this field.
Did you know?
Many chemical engineering positions in the US require or strongly prefer Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, which involves passing the FE and PE exams and gaining relevant work experience.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$114,170.93 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Mathematics
Key Responsibilities
- Develop safety procedures to be employed by workers operating equipment or working in close proximity to ongoing chemical reactions.
- Monitor and analyze data from processes and experiments.
- Perform tests and monitor performance of processes throughout stages of production to determine degree of control over variables such as temperature, density, specific gravity, and pressure.
- Develop processes to separate components of liquids or gases or generate electrical currents, using controlled chemical processes.
- Prepare estimate of production costs and production progress reports for management.
- Conduct research to develop new and improved chemical manufacturing processes.
- Evaluate chemical equipment and processes to identify ways to optimize performance or to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
- Develop computer models of chemical processes.
- Determine most effective arrangement of operations such as mixing, crushing, heat transfer, distillation, and drying.
- Design measurement and control systems for chemical plants based on data collected in laboratory experiments and in pilot plant operations.
- Direct activities of workers who operate or are engaged in constructing and improving absorption, evaporation, or electromagnetic equipment.
- Design and plan layout of equipment.
- Troubleshoot problems with chemical manufacturing processes.
- Perform laboratory studies of steps in manufacture of new products and test proposed processes in small-scale operation, such as a pilot plant.
Career Considerations
Professional Engineering License Requirements
Many chemical engineering positions in the US require or strongly prefer Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, which involves passing the FE and PE exams and gaining relevant work experience.
Industry Cyclicality and Economic Sensitivity
Chemical engineering careers in America are often tied to cyclical industries like oil & gas and manufacturing, making job security dependent on economic conditions and commodity prices.
Stringent Safety and Regulatory Compliance
American chemical engineers must navigate complex federal regulations from agencies like EPA, OSHA, and FDA, requiring strong knowledge of safety protocols and environmental compliance.