Chemical Engineers

Chemical engineers take chemistry out of the laboratory and into the real world. They evaluate methods and equipment for the mass production of chemicals and other materials requiring chemical processing. They also develop products from these materials, such as plastics, metals, gasoline, detergents, pharmaceuticals, and foodstuffs. They develop or improve safe, environmentally sound processes, determine the least costly production method, and formulate the material for easy use and safe, economic transportation. There are approximately 21,400 chemical engineers working in the United States.

Salary Range

$75,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's Degree

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

Much Faster than the Average

Personality Traits

Conventional

Problem-Solving

Technical

Career Ladder

Manager, or Consultant, or Professor

Experienced Chemical Engineer

Project or Production Chemical Engineer

Engineer Trainee or Process Engineer