Fresh Profile: Chemical Engineering Jobs

Published on 2008-08-28

Chemicals are used in the manufacturing of virtually every product on the market. Products like processed foods and beverages, drugs and cosmetics, fats and oils, and soaps and detergents, to name just a few, are all chemically processed, and thus require the skills of chemical engineers to produce them. Chemical engineering jobs involve the use of chemistry, physics, and mathematical principles to bring a concept from the laboratory to the consumer, from raw materials to a saleable product. Chemical engineers accomplish this while making sure the product is marketable, safe to use, and safe for the environment.

Chemical engineering jobs are involved in almost every phase of production, from product design to the testing of finished devices and materials. In manufacturing, chemical engineers research and review the current manufacturing processes and come up with better ideas for operating procedures and machinery functions. They may also develop specific equipment that will save time and money for the company. During the testing phase of any given product, chemical engineers will conduct tests in order to come up with new ideas for better production methods, instruments, and control systems.

Chemical engineers are also masterminds behind design. Chemical-related design engineering jobs may involve designing equipment to safely store and transport chemicals. On a larger scale, chemical engineers also design, build, and run industrial facilities.

Usually, a chemical engineer will specialize in one industry or the progress of one product. In pharmaceutical jobs, for example, engineers are involved with creating new drugs and designing the equipment that produces the drugs. Their knowledge of chemistry, in addition to their knowledge of other engineering disciplines such as electrical and mechanical engineering, is what sets them apart from other types of engineers.

A Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering is required for most entry-level positions. Experience can lead to career opportunities as a chief engineer or plant manager or executive positions in administration.

A degree in chemical engineering provides job opportunities within a broad range of industries and companies. Manufacturing and petroleum refining industries currently offer the largest number of jobs, while other high-employment industries include healthcare, food processing, and biotechnology. Biotechnology jobs and jobs in nanotechnology are expected to have the highest employment growth over the next decade for chemical engineers.

Begin your job search for a chemical engineering position by browsing the Engineering & Architecture section at Fresho.com.