Chemical Engineer Career Description
Chemical engineers use their knowledge of chemistry, physics and chemical engineering to design and operate processes for the large scale production of chemicals, plastic, minerals and other useful commodities.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Chemical engineers design, operate and manage plants where raw materials are processed into intermediate or final products of increased value. The duties of the chemical engineer comprise the following:
Research and development
The chemical manufacturing industry is based on processes discovered and developed in the research laboratory. Chemical engineers conduct the basic research and are also responsible for building experimental plants, testing the processes concerned, gathering design particulars, solving practical problems, and eventually starting up the plant.
Economic evaluation
Before a project can progress from the experimental to the commercial stage, its economic viability must be determined. Such studies are conducted by chemical engineers in close co-operation with financial and marketing specialists.
Plant and equipment design
Chemical engineers' expertise is indispensable in the manufacturing process because of their extensive knowledge concerning the various processes involved.
Equipment manufacture and plant construction
Because of their intimate knowledge of the materials involved in the process, chemical engineers' inputs are required in the manufacture of items of equipment and also in the construction and layout of the factory.
Plant start-up and operation
Chemical engineers are responsible for the testing and commissioning of plant units, the training of operating staff and the start-up of the completed plant. After successful start-up and commissioning, the chemical engineers assume full responsibility for the efficient and cost-effective running of the factory. This include manpower planning, raw material and product inventory, production conditions, product quality, production rate, running expenses, process improvements etc. This work requires efficient management of people, good communication skills, and the ability to anticipate and solve problems, as well as sound financial management abilities.
Management
The management skills developed on the factory floor enable chemical engineers to do well at top management positions as plant. superintendents, technical managers, factory managers or even managing directors.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
To study for and become a successful chemical engineer demands above average intellectual abilities and a strong aptitude for Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. Of equal importance is an intense interest in science, particularly chemical processes. Although not essential, some mechanical insight and dexterity will be an advantage. A strong sense of responsibility and sound human relations are essential qualities for those in managerial positions.
Where can I work?
Chemical engineers are employed by a divergent series of industries such as the mining, food, pharmaceutical, brewery, fertiliser, plastic, petrol and paint industry and all the industries that use coal and raw materials. Chemical engineers are also in demand in the metallurgical industry, especially when the extraction of metal or minerals is to a great extent dependent on chemical processes.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Qualified chemical engineers with the necessary experience in their field can work as independent consultants for various companies in one or more of the abovementioned industries. Chemical engineering also provides the ideal education for all those who wish to start their manufacturing concern. All that is required is a reasonably priced raw material, a good process and a market for the final product. Chemical engineers have the expertise to supply all the other ingredients for a successful enterprise.
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