As the demand for engineers reaches all all-time high, pursuing a job in engineering is more attractive than ever before. There are a range of specialisms for prospective engineers to explore, one of which is chemical engineering. Despite a vast amount of information available online, it can be challenging to understand exactly what this engineering sub-division entails.

In this blog from BMR Solutions, we explore the role of chemical engineer in detail, making reference to key responsibilities, necessary skills, salary and required experience. To read more pieces from our job spotlight series, take a look at our blog.

What is a Chemical Engineer?

Simply put, chemical engineers manage and develop the chemical manufacturing process. They are responsible for converting raw materials into a wide range of different products, including food, beverages, fuel, cosmetics, drugs, and cleaning products. They also often work on the development of plants, machinery, and equipment, helping to optimise production processes in the future. Chemical engineers coordinate the processes that allow raw materials to be transformed into these new products. For this reason, many chemical engineers are also referred to as process engineers.

Chemical Engineer Responsibilities

  • Testing New Processes – Chemical engineers specialise in curating processes that are both efficient and produce a high-quality outcome product. In order to achieve this, processes must be tested to identify errors or areas for improvement.
  • Collecting Data – When tests are carried out, chemical engineers are required to collect data that helps inform future changes or developments.
  • Overseeing Construction of Plants – As businesses scale and the processes they use grow and change, new premises can be required to accommodate these changes. In circumstances where a new plant is being constructed, chemical engineers are likely to oversee the project.
  • Using Process Simulation – One of the key ways of testing new processes is through simulation. Simulations model the characteristics of a system to help identify faults or weaknesses.
  • Using Scientific Knowledge to Inform Methods – Chemical engineers are required to demonstrate their understanding of principles such as magnitude, momentum and heat transfer to create effective processes and products.
  • Supervising Plant Operations – A chemical engineer is also required to ensure plant operations are running smoothly and in accordance to health and safety legislation. 

Chemical Engineer Desirable Skills

 In order to fulfil the role of chemical engineer effectively, a candidate must demonstrate a variety of skills. These include:

  • An Aptitude and Interest for Chemistry – Within this role, an employee with be dealing with chemistry principles on a daily basis, making a keen interest and clearly demonstrated knowledge of the field essential.
  • Strong Communication and Teamwork Skills – In order to conduct their responsibilities, chemical engineers must utilise communication skills effectively and work well with other engineers.
  • Keen Eye for Detail – A competent chemical engineer must also demonstrate a keen eye for detail. This is especially critical for responsibilities involving the safety of the working environment.
  • IT and Numeracy Skills – In order to fulfil the requirements of daily tasks, it is important that a chemical engineer exhibits high standards of IT and numeracy skill.
  • Problem Solving Skills – As with any role that entails testing and troubleshooting, problem solving skills are essential. Proactively identifying issues and finding solutions limit delays to the process coming into action.

 

Chemical Engineer Salary

A recent salary survey by the Institution of chemical engineers found that graduates earn a median salary of approximately £27,600. This increases to £30,000 for engineers who progress before reaching 25 and £54,000 for more experienced engineers. One way for chemical engineers to transition to higher paid positions is to qualify as a chartered chemical engineer. An approximated median salary for a chartered chemical engineer with an undergraduate degree stands at £78,500.

Chemical Engineer Qualifications and Experience

The majority of roles require a chemical engineer to have a degree in chemical, process, or biochemical engineering. Some employers may offer lower-level positions to candidates with a foundation degree in applied sciences.

 

As previously mentioned, working to become a chartered engineer can have substantial advantages for salary. To gain chartered status, a chemical engineer will need to have studied at master’s level. This means completing a four-year, accredited MEng or BEng followed by further learning equating to a master’s qualification. Naturally, those with doctorate qualifications in engineering are also eligible.

Chemical Engineering Employers

 

Any company that generates business through the conversion of raw goods into products requires chemical engineers. Due to this, there are a wide variety of employers looking to secure chemical engineers as a part of their team.  Sectors with a high demand for chemical engineers include:

  • Biotechnology
  • Business, management, and consultancy
  • Energy
  • Food and drink
  • Materials
  • Oil and gas
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Water

Chemical Engineer Working Hours

For the typical chemical engineer, a conventional 5-9 working pattern is often followed. However, there will always be instances in which extra hours are required. In addition to this baseline schedule, some chemical engineers will be required to work shifts, including evenings and weekends.

 

Find Your Next Chemical Engineering Role with BMR Solutions  

If you’re on the lookout for your next position as a chemical engineer, the team of industry experts at BMR Solutions are on hand to advise you. Recruitment specialists working across the South West, we help talented candidates find the right role for them. With a host of valuable connections and local links, our clients receive access to all of the best opportunities for chemical engineers.

To speak to a member of our team about how we can help you with your next career move, contact us today. If you’d prefer not to call, submit your CV online and our team of recruiters will get to work finding opportunities for you. In addition, you can also sign up for job alerts, so you never miss out on great opportunities.