Chemical engineer
Want to help turn raw materials into sustainable fuel, products and food? As a chemical engineer, you'll research new, greener manufacturing processes.
Also known as: process engineer, biochemical engineer
About the job
A day in the life – Chemical engineer
What it's like
Are you fascinated by how things are made? Do you enjoy solving complex problems using science and maths? If so, a career as a chemical engineer could be for you!
You'll work as a problem-solver. This involves using your using your knowledge of chemistry, physics, maths and engineering. Your role will be to design, develop and manage the processes that turn raw materials into everyday products we rely on. Consider things like the fuel we use in our cars. Think about the medicines that help us stay healthy, or even the plastics found in our phones are a result of this work. Chemical engineers play a vital role in making all of these things happen, safely and efficiently.
You could also take a step into working as a biochemical engineer. Taking exciting scientific discoveries to find more cost-effective and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. You might also be involved in the creation of products such as new medicines or developing green sustainable technologies.
It's likely you'll specialise in working in manufacturing or in research and development. However, some employers would give you the chance to work in both fields.
Your tasks might include
In research and development, you'll:
test new ways to develop products in the lab
use computer models to work out the safest and most cost-effective production methods
use lab tests to try out a pilot phase of production
plan how to take pilot projects to large-scale industrial processing
develop methods to deal with by-products and waste materials in a safe way
In manufacturing, you'll:
work with plant designers to create equipment for the production process
help to oversee the day-to-day operation of the processing plant
check production and deal with problems
work closely with quality control managers
work closely with health and safety managers
You might also manage a team of chemical engineering technicians.
Green job
In this job you'll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Hours
In research and development, you'll likely work Monday to Friday, with the addition of overtime to meet project deadlines.
In processing and manufacturing, you might work on a shift system, including weekends, evenings and nights.
Environment
Usually, there's four different environments a chemical engineer could work in depending on the role, industry and stage of a project.
Office-based: processing information and generating reports
Laboratory-based: running simulations and analysing data from experiments
Industrial-plant: monitoring operations and providing real-time information
Outdoor/field site: providing analysis of the surrounding environment
Travel
The amount of travel involved can vary depending on the industry and role. For example, if you work for a large multinational corporation in oil and gas, you may need to travel international to research centres or client sites.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing Energy Chemical sciences
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- chemical engineering
- chemical process
- process engineering
- root cause analysis
- equipment design
- medical devices
- petrochemical
- design management
- control of major accident hazards regulations
- business coaching
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- analysing
- developing a plan
- filtering
- attention to detail
- researching
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- evaluating
- working with technology
- verbal communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Chemistry
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, such as:
Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Chemistry
Mechnical Engineering
Biochemical Engineering
Materials Science and Engineering
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Applied Science
Engineering Systems
Chemistry
Chemical Engineering
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Discover Modern Apprenticeships on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Discover Graduate Apprenticeships on Apprenticeships.scot.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a chemical engineer. Search for engineering opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
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