Chemical engineer

Chemical engineers are scientists at heart who are passionate about applying the principles of chemistry, biology, math, and physics to create or transform chemicals to make a product or substance. Chemical engineers are for example involved in creating fuels, paints, ingredients for food and medicines, electronics, or any other product that is composed of chemical elements.

Some chemical engineers, also known as chemical process engineers, become specialists in a particular chemical process, such as oxidation or hydrogenation. These engineers have invaluable scientific and engineering talent that make their professions critical to the successful operation of chemical or biochemical processes.

In chemical engineer jobs, the engineers apply their creative, technical and chemistry skills for a number of tasks. They can be responsible for designing equipment and processes, running tests, evaluating their results, and overseeing chemical engineering operations. Chemical engineers often use computer modeling and other technical processes to test the effectiveness of the chemical products, while also determining their environmental and consumer safety.

In this career, they get involved in researching new methods of chemical manufacturing, make cost estimates for production using the substances, and introduce safety procedures for employees who may work with the hazardous chemicals. Chemical engineers often work in labs or in large manufacturing plants.

Given the importance of chemical engineering processes in many industries, chemical engineers or chemical process engineers can find jobs in a wide range of industries. Sectors include manufacturing, energy, environmental conservation, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and more.