Chemical Engineer Career Information

Answer 1

Chemical engineers are involved in the application of chemicals to practical processes. Chemical engineers are knowledgeable about the behavior and application of chemicals- and are often highly educated in the field of chemistry. Chemical engineers often work in the industrial field, as the work that they do is often commissioned by, and utilized for the chemical industry. Chemical engineers could be involved in the chemical processes to produce plastics, gasoline, and other sorts of materials that are utilized by all sorts of people and companies.

Chemical engineers must be highly knowledgeable about both chemistry and engineering principles, as they utilize both fields in their careers. This requires education at properly accredited post-secondary educational institutions- typically colleges and universities. Chemical engineers, on the whole have bachelor degrees, and typically hold masters and doctoral degree’s as well. This extensive education stems from the combination of the fields of chemistry and engineering.

Due to the danger of chemicals, chemical engineers are required to go through stringent procedures to ensure the safety of both the engineer and client. Chemical engineers must go through state regulated licensing procedures- which can vary from state to state. There is typically written and practical examinations, as chemical engineers must be knowledgeable on safety procedures and protocols within their field. Individual employers may have other requirements- for example, federal agencies may require that a chemical engineer have a certain security clearance in order to work for the federal government.

The extensive education and licensing pays off though, as starting salaries can be between 55,000 and 70,000 dollars for graduating students. Chemical engineers can make as much as 105,000 dollars a year on average, with the potential to make more depending upon the employer.

Potential employers of chemical engineers can include chemical companies, city, state, and federal agencies and organizations, as well as private firms specifically devoted to the field of chemical engineering. Chemical engineers may find themselves working as project overseers, managers, researchers, as well as the possibility of teaching in post-secondary educational institutions like colleges and universities. Many employers expect a high degree of professionalism from employed chemical engineers.