What they do
From gasoline to pet food, chemical engineers are responsible for the development and production of the plastics, paper, dyes, drugs, food and fertilizers that are major components in our modern life. They invent new processes and improve existing ones, and design and operate the plants and equipment needed to transform raw materials into useful products, often on a massive scale.
Where they work
Chemical engineers are employed by chemical producers, including agricultural chemicals, industrial chemicals, petroleum, pharmaceuticals, and plastics; the cosmetics industry; electronics and food processes; federal government agencies, including the Department of Energy and Defense, the Environmental Protection Agency and NASA; as well as, manufacturing plants including aerospace, automotive, microelectronic devices, and textiles.
What they earn
Chemical engineers typically earn between $53,730 and $130,240 annually, with an average salary of $84,680.
