Chemical Engineering Profession

A degree in chemical engineering prepares you for many career opportunities in industry and government. There is a high demand for professionals in this field to work with basic chemicals, petrochemicals, synthetic chemicals, synthetic fibers and fuels, polymeric materials, microbial materials, and enzymes. Chemistry's ties to microelectronics and pharmaceuticals further emphasize the need for future chemical engineers. Chemical engineers also work to improve the environment and make energy conversion more efficient. All of these endeavors require the rigorous and broad expertise that is characteristic of a chemical engineering background. 

Initial job assignments are often in process design and development or plant project engineering. Many companies have rotation plans which enable new chemical engineers to work in several positions, departments, or operations before settling into a specific career function. Also, chemical engineering has been shown to be excellent training for corporate management. 

Opportunities are also available for chemical engineers in polymers, petrochemicals, medicine, biotechnology, research, and teaching. Spring 2000 starting salaries averaged $49,500 per year for University of Akron BS graduates.