Chemical engineers are creative problem solvers, says the American Institute
of Chemical Engineers. They take chemistry out of the laboratory and into
the real world. Everything we see and touch is made of chemicals. The profession
really knows no boundaries.
"Common sense and hard work are what one needs to be a great chemical engineer,"
says Keeran R. Srinivasan, a research scientist with the department of chemical
engineering at the University of Michigan. "If it doesn't make sense, it isn't
chemical engineering."
It's hard to describe the typical job held by a chemical engineer. They
work in such a broad range of industries. Generally, they rely on their knowledge
of mathematics and science (especially chemistry) to solve problems safely
and economically.
For example, a chemical engineer may work on better ways of producing fertilizer.
In turn, this will increase the quantity and quality of available food. Or
a chemical engineer might construct the synthetic fibers that make our clothes
more comfortable and water-resistant.
Many are working to create safer, more efficient methods of refining petroleum
products. Some also work on solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution
control.
Many engineers work in laboratories, industrial plants or construction
sites. They may inspect, supervise or solve problems. In short, they figure
out the best way to manufacture chemicals, and then supervise that process.
Not all chemical engineers make things, however. Many use their skills
in other careers, including law, education, publishing, finance and medicine.
Job titles vary. A chemical engineer may take a job as a process design
engineer, project manager, consultant, lawyer, biomedical specialist or sales
and marketing specialist.
Chemical engineers may work in the following industries: manufacturing,
pharmaceuticals, health care, design and construction, pulp and paper, petrochemicals,
food processing, specialty chemicals, polymers, biotechnology and the environmental
health and safety industries, says the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
Most work a standard 40-hour week. At times, deadlines or design standards
may bring long hours and considerable stress.