Chemical Engineer Career Guide

Many industries in the United States employ chemical engineers. Chemical engineers use math and science to overcome problems and find solutions. Chemical engineers must have knowledge of both math and chemistry. They work in a variety of different settings, and the tasks they perform may include everything from constructing different compounds to processing chemicals to advising regulators on laws that make people safe.

Chemical engineers can perform work in the pharmaceutical industry, manufacturing field, or healthcare. They may work in food processing, electronics industries, environmental health and safety field, or business services. Their actual tasks vary significantly depending upon the specific field they are in. Chemical engineers do everything from developing methods of mass-producing affordable medications to finding new ways of refining petroleum products. The goal is always to develop a way to make energy and chemical sources more effective and productive.

Advanced education in chemistry and engineering are required in this field. Creativity, effective communications skills, and an eagerness to keep up-to-date on new developments in an ever-changing field are also required for success in this career path. Chemical engineers typically work during routine business hours. The work is often lucrative, and chemical engineers usually enjoy flexibility in choosing an area of specialization they enjoy.

We have in-depth career profiles to show you what chemical engineers do on a daily basis, which has been compiled by talking to real people in the industry. Read the profiles below to learn about the ins and outs of being a chemical engineer, including educational and career paths, salaries, and more.