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Chemical Engineer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

A Chemical Engineer, or Biochemical Engineer converts raw materials into useful products such as food, clothing and drinks. Their primary duties include formulating processes used to develop products, ensuring that products are produced efficiently and designing and operating plants and machinery.

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Chemical Engineer duties and responsibilities

The primary duties of a Chemical Engineer are to devise processes to convert raw materials to usable products while protecting the world’s resources and environment. They often design, operate and manufacture plants and machines used in the production process. Their other common duties and responsibilities include: 

  • Conducting research and developing new and improved manufacturing processes
  • Establishing safety procedures to use while working with dangerous chemicals
  • Developing processes used to separate components of liquids and gases and generating electrical currents
  • Designing and planning the layout of equipment used in the chemical processes
  • Conducting tests and monitoring the performance of processes throughout the production
  • Troubleshooting problems in the equipment and manufacturing processes
  • Evaluating equipment and processes to check compliance with safety and government regulations
  • Liaising with the financial departments to estimate production costs and create budgets for management
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Chemical Engineer Job Description Examples:

Example 1

Job description

Humber Recruitment are proud to be working with a valued client in Grimsby, who are looking to recruit a Chemical Engineer.

You will work closely with the Technical Director and Operations team to ensure the plant is set up to efficiently provide maximum output levels taking health and safety, environmental, and economic aspects into account.

Safety Health, Environmental and Quality (SHEQ) requirements:

· Complies with the Company and statutory requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act section 7 as well as the environment

· Co-operates in ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, colleagues and visitors (e.g. customers, contractors) whilst at work

· Co-operates via communication, consultation and participation in the SHEQ management systems

· Co-operates in protecting resources by minimising energy usage, waste and emissions to benefit the planet.

Principal Accountabilities/Critical Objectives:

· Designing plant and equipment configuration so that they can be readily adapted to suit the product range and the process technologies involved

· Assessing options for plant expansion and/or reconfiguration by identifying, developing and testing new technologies

· Designing, installing and commissioning new production equipment, including monitoring developments and troubleshooting

· Optimising production by analysing processes and compiling de-bottleneck studies

· Researching new products from trial through to commercialisation

· Ensuring that potential safety issues related to the Production team, the environment, the process and the product are considered at all stages

· Developing methods to deal with waste materials in adherence with Environment Agency regulations and guidance

· Responsibility for maintenance and effective utilisation of DeltaV system

· Develops safety procedures for those working with potentially dangerous chemicals.

Other Accountabilities:

· Authoriser for Permits to Work

· Liaises directly with EA

· Liaises directly with HSE

· Liaises directly with external equipment & software designers and engineers

· Liaises indirectly with BSI and BRC.

Knowledge, Experience & Qualifications:

· MEng in Chemical Engineering

· Nebosh Certificate

· MCerts

· DeltaV

· H&S Rules.

  • Day shift
  • Flexitime
  • Monday to Friday

    Benefits:

  • Company pension
  • On-site parking

    Salary: £55,000.00-£60,000.00 per year

    Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

    Salary: £55,000.00-£60,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • Company pension
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday



    Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Grimsby: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work Location: In person

    • Example 2

    Role

    Geothermal Engineering Ltd (GEL) is looking to recruit a highly motivated, permanent, full-time Chemical Engineer, to join our growing team pioneering geothermal power development in the UK. This exciting opportunity has been created in order to build a lithium demonstration plant and support our company expansion.

    An opportunity has arisen for a chemical engineer to provide a key role in the execution of the lithium project. The ideal candidate will be a chemical engineer with experience of delivering similar chemical processing or hydrometallurgical plants.

    The chosen candidate will need to have a suitable degree level qualification and at least five years’ work experience in a similar environment. While it will not be a pre-requisite to have experience in lithium processing, some knowledge in critical mineral exploitation would be beneficial. This will be an important role within a team focused on demonstrating how Cornwall can be at the forefront of lithium production in the UK.

    The person will need to adopt a positive, proactive and methodical approach to the development of the lithium project.

    The candidate will need to demonstrate the following:

  • Experience of working in chemical process engineering in a similar industry.

  • Familiarity with the development of new and innovative technical processes.

  • Ability to plan the route to commercialisation of R&D equipment combined with tried and tested processes.

  • Contributing towards design development of entire process chains.

  • Ability to understand chemical interactions in new processes and plan ways to mitigate results.

  • Evidence of risk assessment techniques and development of processes with full adherence to best practice in health, safety, and environmental procedures.

  • Management of laboratory processes.

  • Familiarity with Direct Lithium Extraction methods such as ion-exchange or absorption.

    Desirable Qualities.

  • Interest in renewable energy and Cornwall’s move to net zero carbon by 2030.

  • Work well in growing results driven team.

  • Ability to learn new processes and apply these to company strategy in a fast-moving environment.

  • Capable of working to tight deadlines and budgets.

    Key Responsibilities:

  • Development of lithium process demonstration plant.

  • Management of hydromechanical consultants and contractors

  • Contribute towards design and construction of lithium plant.

  • Management of the creation and operation of laboratory facilities

  • Appropriate health and safety management

    Location: The role will primarily be based at the GEL office on the United Downs Industrial Estate near Redruth, Cornwall.

    Standard Hours: 37.5 hours a week Monday to Friday

    Salary: The company will offer a competitive salary and benefits based on the candidate’s skills and experience for this exciting new role.

    Annual leave: Starting at 22 days plus bank holidays.

    Additional Information:

  • Company Pension
  • Free on site Parking
  • Enhanced Sick Pay
  • Dental Health Cover

    Research shows that those in underrepresented groups tend to apply if they tick every box. We're not about box ticking, so if you think you have what it takes but don't think you meet everything stated above, please still get in touch!

    To apply for this role, please send your CV and cover letter to [website] with the subject “Chemical Engineer Application”

    Closing Date: 13th September 2023

    Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

    Salary: £30,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • Company pension
  • Free parking
  • On-site parking
  • Private dental insurance
  • Sick pay
    Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

    Work Location: In deadline: 13/09/2023

    • Example 3

    We have a hugely exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Bioprocess / Chemical engineer to join our client, an innovative biotech start up based in Nottingham who are developing industry changing technologies that uses fermentation to turn CO2 emissions into carbon-neutral chemicals with applications competitive for the pharma, cosmetics, and paint industries. You will be an integral part of the company’s senior team and given the opportunity to build your own team and spearhead their development.

    This a highly rewarding opportunity, with share opportunities available within this high growth business.

    You will be responsible for:

    Lead the development and commercialisation of their gas fermentation process

    The optimisation and scaling up of bioprocess from prototype through to pilot

    Manage the construction and integration of process and techno economic models

    Integrate upstream, downstream and bioreactor components to create new bioprocesses

    The successful candidate will have:

    Extensive bioprocess experience, having designed and scaled up bioprocess

    Experience designing, building, commissioning and demonstrating pilot plants

    An ability to deal with complex international supply chains

    Deep understanding of process models and techno-economic assessments

    You will benefit from a rewarding benefits scheme:

    £55,000 to £65,000 basic salary

    Share opportunities

    Development opportunities

    28 days holiday

    Click Apply Now to be considered for this position.

    We aim to respond to suitable candidates within 5 working days. If you have not heard from us within this time, please feel free to contact us to receive feedback on your application and discuss your requirements.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Salary: £55,000.00-£65,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • On-site parking
    Schedule:
  • Monday to ID: IDR00504

    • Example 4

  • Variety of challenging projects
  • Concept to commissioning responsibility
  • Passion + expertise = great team

    Job Summary

    As an experienced Process or Chemical Engineer, you will be leading the design and management of a wide range of projects for our demanding food and dairy industry clients. Responsibilities include designing innovative processes, modifying or optimising equipment and increasing process efficiency. The role also involves site supervision of projects, so you’ll be available to travel. More than our innovative and creative design solutions and specialist knowledge, our clients come to us because they trust us with their engineering headaches. No two projects are the same, so you’ll be challenged every day.

    About You

    If you’re an experienced process engineer ready for your next career move, your toolbox of skills and experience will include;

  • Between 2 – 6 years process and/or chemical engineering experience
  • Experience with feasibility studies, concept design, costing and project management
  • A genuine passion for engineering and solving problems, a “can-do” attitude and strong communication and leadership skills
  • Experience within the dairy or food processing industries would be advantageous, but not essential as we’re eager to share our industry experience with quick learners who are looking for a change
  • A relevant chemical/process engineering qualification

    Why work with PDV Consultants?

    Our team tell us they enjoy the challenging work and the satisfaction of seeing their concepts and designs come to life on site. They value working with a passionate team of engineers who are always ready to share their knowledge and experience. More than this, they appreciate the relaxed and flexible culture, the approachable management team and a set of values (including fun!) that they can really relate to and see in action every day.

    Benefits

  • Competitive salary, depending on experience level
  • Overnight Allowances
  • Professional membership e.g. IChemE

    About Us

    Started as a family firm, PDV Consultants is now one of the leading global process engineering and project management consultancies, with offices in New Zealand and Europe (based in Belfast). Just like our reputation, we are a constantly growing organisation with a dedicated and passionate team of engineers who are committed to growing along with us. At PDV Consultants we can offer continuous professional development and career growth, lots of exciting projects, colleagues with extensive experience and a great work environment.

    Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

    Salary: £30,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • On-site parking
  • Work from home
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift

    Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Belfast, BT12 6RD: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

    Education:
  • Bachelor's (required)

    Experience:
  • process, project or chemical engineering: 1 year (required)

    Work Kingdom (required)

    • Example 5

    Job Description

    A start-up engaged in the development of a disruptive technology involving a chemical process, is currently looking to add an engineer to its London-based team. The work is in collaboration with an academic team comprising scientists from University of Cambridge, UCL and Queen Mary University of London.

    The focus of this role is the scale-up of the technology from the current proven bench scale, to demo plant and customer-beta-sites installed pilot plant scale, through the development of processes, designs, methodologies, standardisation, optimisation, and continuous improvement initiatives emerging from ongoing R&D work.

    Key Responsibilities of the Role:

  • Partake in the design and conduct of R&D to optimise performance while scaling up

  • Participate in the design, construction, and commissioning of scaled up demonstration and pilot plants

  • Collaborate on expanding the company’s IP portfolio

  • Initiate improvements to operational KPIs such as yields, throughput, cost etc.

  • Remain on top of technical developments within the field

  • Generate the design of experiments ideas and interpretation of data to support process development

  • Provide regular progress reports on results, the impact of changes and next steps

    Role Requirements:

    Essential:

  • Honours degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Process Engineering or equivalent

  • Minimum three years of industry experience in petrochemical, oil refining, fertiliser, industrial gases or similar

  • Experience in corrosion, corrosive environments

  • Experience with supercritical carbon dioxide

  • Demonstrated track record and proven ability to manage technical process details, keeping accurate and diligent records

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and practical familiarity with equipment workings

  • Comprehensive knowledge of safe working practices

  • Highly developed verbal and written communication skills, conveying complex information to both technical and non-technical audiences

  • Creative approach to technical innovation and problem solvingsems

  • Confident with independent work as well as strong team working ethic

    Desirable:

  • Quick to learn, understand and critically evaluate information and analyse data

  • Working toward, or obtained, full membership or chartership of a relevant institution

    As a start-up, the company will expect the candidate to have a flexible approach to work.

    In return, this is a real opportunity to join a world-changing business with a huge impact on the industry at an early stage. Competitive compensation to the right candidate.

    All applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Salary: £42,468.00-£47,344.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • Casual dress
  • Flexitime
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekend availability

    Ability to commute/relocate:
  • London: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

    Education:
  • Bachelor's (required)

    Experience:
  • Industry: 3 years Location: One location

    • Example 6

    Chemical Engineer

    £28,000 - £36,000

    Permanent

    Based in Flintshire

    Role open to entry level Graduates up to Experienced hires.

    Our client is a very well-known construction specialist within the Manufacturer sector looking to expand their team due to company growth. Proud of their reputation of being a global leader within its sector they strive to make this continue, by continuously improving and developing their products to be the product of tomorrow.

    Our client can offer endless career development and progression including entrance onto this year’s Graduate training scheme in November, has created a unique and thoroughly modernised working environment and incentivises teamwork through giving out annual bonuses.

    If this sounds like your next exciting career opportunity, details of your new role are below!!

    Details:

    Reporting to the Chemical Engineering Manager you will work with an existing team of Laboratory Analysts and Chemical Engineers across existing and upcoming Continuous Process Improvement projects.

    The successful candidate will have an understanding of scientific methods to observe and gather data from the company’s production processes. Analysing the information and formulating clear and concise plans for improvements to their processes.

    Duties:

    · Signoff quality inspection samples

    · Report engineering and quality issues

    · Investigate warranties

    · Monitor of process control systems

    · Calculate process settings

    · Problem identification and solving

    · Attend production, quality and departmental meetings

    · Prepare monthly output reports

    · Assist with external audits

    · Calibration of testing equipment and sensors

    Qualifications and Experience:

    · Ideally qualified to degree level in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Maths) subject.

    · Strong communication skills and able to negotiate effectively at different levels

    · Numerate with an understanding of statistics

    · Familiar with MS Office, especially Excel

    · Organised, with a strong attention to detail

    · Understanding of and an ability to use technical language clearly

    · Continually looking to develop oneself

    · Champion the customer’s requirements at all times

    Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

    Salary: £28,000.00-£36,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • Additional leave
  • Discounted or free food
  • Free parking
  • On-site parking
  • Sick pay
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
    Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus scheme
  • Performance bonus
  • Yearly bonus

    Work Location: One ID: J917122

    • What does a Chemical Engineer do? 

    Chemical Engineers typically work for chemical production companies in industries such as pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, electronics, food and beverages and polymer manufacturing. Their main duties are to ensure that products are produced efficiently and technical problems are solved safely and economically.

    Chemical Engineers develop new technologies such as fuel cells, hydrogen power and nanotechnology. They help world organisations sustain natural resources, protect the environment and ensure that safety standards are met. Chemical Engineers can also work with innovative technologies to improve the lives of the people in their communities.

    Chemical Engineer skills and qualifications

    Chemical Engineers have excellent analytical, problem-solving and deductive reasoning skills to determine systems that don’t work optimally and devise solutions to help them perform better. Successful Chemical Engineer will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include: 

    • Proficiency in regulatory requirements
    • In-depth understanding of chemical engineering concepts
    • Ability to monitor and optimise plant performance
    • Excellent leadership, coaching and team management skills
    • Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills
    • Exceptional creativity and innovation
    • Ability to take initiative and pay attention to detail while performing research
    • Open-minded to new ideas and concepts

    Chemical Engineer experience requirements

    Chemical Engineers often require at least three years of experience as Chemical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Analytical Chemists, Food Technologists or other related roles. Previous industrial placements help Chemical Engineers build practical experience, skills and testing in the industry. Candidates must also have experience working with Plant Designers, Executives and Financial Managers.

    Chemical Engineer education and training requirements

    The minimum education requirement for a Chemical Engineer is a bachelor’s degree in chemical, process, nuclear or biochemical engineering. Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in any engineering field, since they then have advanced knowledge and higher-level skills. Candidates with bachelor’s degrees in physical sciences may begin as Chemical Engineer Assistants and advance to higher positions with experience. Once hired, candidates can take short training programmes to help them understand industry standards and processes.

    Chemical Engineer salary expectations

    According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Chemical Engineer in the UK is £32,554 per year. Salaries vary depending on experience, education, location and company.

    Job description samples for similar positions

    If a Chemical Engineer is not quite what you’re looking for, here are other job description samples that may fit your needs: 

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    Chemical Engineer job description FAQs

    Do Chemical Engineers need to perform a lot of maths?

    Although most of the maths performed by Chemical Engineers are simple equations, it’s a good idea to hire candidates with strong maths skills. They must be able to perform calculations manually or using spreadsheets to figure out the theoretical application of innovations to processes.

    How can you make a Chemical Engineering job description stand out?

    Be specific to the experience, skills, education and salary sections of the job description, as this is where job seekers look at first, before sending a job application. To make your job description stand out, state that you are strictly looking for candidates with chemistry knowledge and product design. Outline the level of expertise you require by using the right vocabulary and listing the top skill set.

    How many hours does a Chemical Engineer need to work per week?

    Most Chemical Engineers work full time (eight hours per day for five days a week). Some companies pay them per hour, while others pay them on a monthly basis.

    How do you introduce your company in a Chemical Engineer job description?

    In a paragraph, mention the name of your organisation, what is it that your organisation does, them mention the services you require. Make sure to mention why you are looking to hire a candidate in this industry and how they could help you achieve your production goals.

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