Engineering is one of the vastest scientific domains and can be broken down into multiple equally large niches like software and IT engineering, power plant engineering or chemical engineering.
Chemical engineers contribute a lot to scientific development in different fields such as energy and biotechnology. They are responsible for the research, development and implementation of different equipment, infrastructure and machines used in different chemical industries.
A degree in chemical engineering can give you the technical expertise and skills required for career roles in this domain. Owing to the multiple applications of chemical engineering across different industries, the degree can also enhance your career prospects in different domains.
Read ahead to explore some exciting roles you can pursue with a chemical engineering degree.
- Chemical engineer: Chemical engineers are involved in the design and production of different chemical products and technologies. Your work will include understanding the physical and chemical properties of different raw materials and altering them to change their chemical structure or physical appearance. Chemical engineers can be hired in a large number of industries including food and drink, pharmaceuticals, petroleum and energy management.
- Colour technologist: Colour technologists are hired for handling paints and colour applications for a wide range of products within the manufacturing sector. Colour technology applications can be applied for products like paper, cosmetics, textiles and toiletries. You can either be in an analytical role ensuring correct production or a logistical role that involves liaising with suppliers and end-users.
- Energy engineer: Energy harnessing is the primary fuel behind modern-day development. Becoming an energy engineer will place you in the highly dynamic energy sector and allow you to contribute to human development. These days, being a chemical engineer in the renewable energy sector can be financially rewarding and exciting. Your job might include designing and testing renewable energy generating infrastructure and coming up with new ways to generate clean energy.
- Nuclear engineer: Nuclear power engineers are hired to design, build, monitor and run nuclear power plants. Depending upon your role, you might be called in to design safer nuclear power generation equipment or better ways to control and contain the radiation. Your job description can also include decommissioning old plants and ensuring that the nuclear waste is disposed of properly.
- Analytical chemist: Analytical chemists utilise a wide range of chemical processes and techniques to investigate the composition of different samples. Analytical chemists can be hired for different purposes depending upon the origin of the samples. For instance, analytical chemists in a forensic lab test evidence samples from crime scenes to provide further clues to the detectives.
Apart from these roles, you can also consider becoming a mining engineer, process development scientist, materials engineer or naval engineer. There are other roles like production engineer, quality manager, food scientist or waste management expert.
A background in chemical engineering can introduce you to a world of exciting career roles that can bring financial stability and satisfy your scientific curiosity. Invest in a good chemical engineering programme from a reputed university today to secure your career in this dynamic engineering industry.