what is a process engineer?

Process engineers bring their love for chemistry to the manufacturing industry. You'll find efficient ways to turn raw materials, such as cotton, leather, rocks and sand, into various products. If the current system operates too slowly, you'll figure out how to accelerate the process without sacrificing quality.

Thousands of the products that you see in grocery stores, including clothes, food, electronics, makeup and medicine, require process engineering. You'll take a science-based approach with chemical processes and laboratory tools. If you prefer one industry, such as agriculture, gasoline and pharmaceuticals, you can usually specialize in that particular area.

When you're not working with raw materials, you'll bring your knowledge to the manufacturing plant. Factories need your chemistry knowledge to run their equipment safely and efficiently. You'll review existing equipment, perform quality checks and design new equipment that meets industry standards. Periodically, you'll gather data to evaluate the plant's performance.

Installing new equipment is expensive, so your employer counts on you to test your designs before giving them final approval. Likewise, they count on you to figure out why an operation failed. From learning how to process materials to evaluating the factory floor, you're involved in nearly every step of the production process.

Would working as a process engineer suit your chemistry skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a process engineer role.

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average process engineer salary

Chemical engineers, including process engineers, make an average of $105,550 per year. Process engineers on the lower end earn $62,730 per year, while the highest salaries reach $187,430 a year. Some process engineers earn more when they take supervisor positions.

Your industry influences your yearly salary. People who work in engineering services make about $152,430 per year, while petroleum process engineers make about $126,780. Since process engineers typically work for high-revenue companies, you can expect health insurance, pension plans, stock options, paid time off, life insurance policies and other benefits.

Once you start, you may receive hourly pay or an overall salary. Some companies give out bonuses, especially around the holidays. If you take on overtime hours, most states require employers to increase your pay. Additionally, you could negotiate for a higher salary once you've worked as a process engineer for several years.

Moving to another industry can also affect your pay rate. However, each industry requires a different knowledge base, so research the field before applying for a position. An engineer who works in agriculture needs different skills than an engineer who works in cosmetics or biopharmaceuticals.

Wondering what you can earn as a process engineer? Find out immediately with the Randstad salary checker! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a process engineer is.

Two males talking. Both have beards. One wears glasses. One male in the background. Informal setting. Inside. Checkered shirt. Supporting color blue.
Two males talking. Both have beards. One wears glasses. One male in the background. Informal setting. Inside. Checkered shirt. Supporting color blue.
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types of process engineer

Different types of process engineers include senior process engineers and process safety engineers. You could earn one of these titles if you gain experience, major employees or specialize in a certain field. Businesses hire specialized process engineers for duties that require more than general knowledge.

You can also work in various industries, including food, cosmetics, gasoline, medication and biopharmaceuticals. Every year that you work in your field makes you more valuable to employers. Additionally, some businesses offer different positions: Process Engineer I and Process Engineer II. The second one requires more experience and may come with a higher salary.

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working as a process engineer

Process engineers work in lab and industrial environments. Learn about your potential colleagues, work environment and weekly schedule.

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process engineer skills and education

Most process engineers need a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related program. Corporations rarely accept applicants with just a high school diploma or associate degree. Once you've earned your bachelor's degree, you can pursue more prestigious jobs with a master's degree or doctorate.

Your education will likely include classes on math, chemistry, physics, science and engineering. Seeking internships while you're in school gives you experience for your resume and potentially leads to a full-time position. Internships typically require a part-time commitment for a few months. Some companies pay you for your time.

Generally, you don't need certifications for entry-level positions. However, you can seek certifications, such as Professional Engineering (PE) licenses, once you've built up your resume. Common license requirements include a few years of experience, a college degree and a mentorship with a licensed professional. You'll take licensing exams to prove your knowledge.

After becoming a licensed engineer, you could pursue other licenses and certifications. Some states require you to renew your certifications, ensuring that you're up-to-date on the latest technology. Likewise, make sure you stay on top of new safety regulations.

skills and competencies

On a basic level, you need to understand scientific and mathematical concepts, such as calculus, heat transfer, chemistry, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and process design. You'll also use machinery and drafting software, which requires you to refresh your knowledge as technology advances. Multiple software certifications show companies that you're committed to learning.

Process engineers are also detail-oriented. A single issue could cause a safety hazard, halt the production line, destroy raw materials or even force the factory to shut down for the day. You catch these issues early and design machinery that runs smoothly with only occasional maintenance. Similarly, when problems arise, you know exactly how to target the source.

Other essential skills include:

  • data analysis
  • research
  • explaining technical concepts
  • collaboration
  • leadership

Process engineers interact with a variety of people, including fellow engineers, factory workers, safety inspectors, technicians, supervisors and office workers. You'll have to communicate with all of them to keep the plant running. Your colleagues also need you to stay calm in unexpected situations and resolve the issue yourself or find a relevant expert. Management could ask you to assume various roles in different situations.

process engineer
process engineer
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FAQs about working as a process engineer

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about process engineers.

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