Career overview

Chemical Engineers

O*NET-SOC 17-2041.00

Median pay / yr$121,860

OutlookAverage

Design chemical plant equipment and devise processes for manufacturing chemicals and products, such as gasoline, synthetic rubber, plastics, detergents, cement, paper, and pulp, by applying principles and technology of chemistry, physics, and engineering.

What it takes

The skills, knowledge, and credentials employers look for in Chemical Engineers.

Skills employers look for

Critical ThinkingUsing logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
ScienceUsing scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Complex Problem SolvingIdentifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Reading ComprehensionUnderstanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active LearningUnderstanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Knowledge areas

Engineering and TechnologyKnowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
ChemistryKnowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
MathematicsKnowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
DesignKnowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
PhysicsKnowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.