Role Profile

Chemical Engineer

Typical job description:

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

The work 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.

Key Processes:

The exact nature of the work will depend on the size of the employing organisation.
However, it will almost certainly involve:

  • develop and test new materials and processes or adapt and improve existing ones
  • conduct process development experiments in a laboratory
  • design and develop the machinery to be used in the production process
  • 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 and be involved in maintenance procedures, monitoring and trouble-shooting, quality control, efficiency, and health and safety of the plant and the wider environment

Entry Level:

Chemical engineering degree or BTEC HNC/HND in chemical related subject

Search for related degrees or courses:
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Industry Standard:

Degree in chemical engineering

Competencies:

  • Conceptual Thinking
  • Tenacity
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Initiative
  • Efficiency Orientation
  • Concern for Standards
  • Critical Information Seeking
  • Rational Persuasion
  • Thoroughness

Knowledge needed for the role:

  • 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.

Pay and conditions:

Graduates starting salaries range between £18,000 and £27,000 a year.

Experienced chemical engineers can earn between £30,000 and £40,000 a year.

Senior chartered chemical engineers earn £40,000 to £60,000 (average are around £52,000 a year).

Chemical engineers working in a research or development team normally work a 37-hour week. Those working on development projects can work 50 hours or more a week, including evenings and weekends.

Other information:

To find courses near you visit www.learndirect-advice.co.uk

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