It is necessary to demonstrate mastery of a variety of skills in order to be successful in finding suitable chemical engineering employment. To the uninitiated, the title of chemical engineer may imply that one of the requirements is the ability to work long hours in a chemical laboratory. However, this is not the case. In fact, possessing knowledge of the principles of chemistry, mathematics, and physics isn’t enough to get a job in chemical engineering. Many chemical engineering jobs entail numerous field trips and interactions with a wide range of clients and colleagues, often on a global scale.
Chemical engineering, by definition, entails the creation of products that are both feasible and profitable to mass-produce in terms of the manufacturing process and the investment required. On the surface, this suggests that the engineer should have sufficient knowledge of applied chemistry and mechanical engineering. While this is true, it is also necessary to develop and follow projections for the allocation of financial and human resources. This includes the ability to balance a budget as well as chemical equations, as well as project management skills to oversee the project from start to finish.
A chemical engineer must be concerned with related safety issues in addition to playing a key role in the development and production processes. Coming into contact with various chemicals and formulas can obviously be hazardous to one’s health. As a result, the engineer must be familiar with standard manufacturing practices, not only in terms of taking precautions to avoid unnecessary exposure to such substances, but also in terms of proper material handling, distribution, storage, and disposal.
The chemical engineer must also be well-versed in the most recent technologies employed in the industry or industries in which he or she works. Because the field encompasses so many different markets, the scope of this knowledge can vary greatly. Chemical engineering jobs can be found in a variety of industries, including electronics, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, construction, textiles, and petroleum refining. Chemical engineering jobs can also be found in companies that specialize in developing sustainable energy solutions or providing environmental conservation and remediation services.
Chemistry, mechanical engineering, physics, and other related scientific disciplines are all required for a career in chemical engineering. Because most chemical engineering jobs require extensive interaction with in-house personnel and management, as well as external clients, third-party vendors, and other project engineers, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also required. Finally, it is desirable to be detail-oriented and comfortable supervising individuals and teams.