Careers

Chemical engineering is a diverse profession. New graduates are usually employed in process operations and development where they apply their engineering skills for design, research and development, construction and installation, manufacturing and production, and administration/management services.

Many chemical and materials engineers are employed in industries converting raw materials to useful products such as dairy , food and drink, pharmaceuticals and toiletries, chemicals and allied products, cement, fertiliser, glass, ceramics, plastics, liquid fuels, water industry, steel and aluminium; processing of and production of materials; conversion of agricultural products; processing of timber including paper making; the development of resources such as natural gas, coal and other minerals; resource management and environmental protection.

With practical experience, graduates can develop their careers further by moving into design, technical sales, management and consulting.

Read about women in chemical and materials engineering.