How to Become a Process Engineer

A process engineer works in factories or plants to create, analyse and maintain processes and machines. They will consider the processes of transforming materials into products and evaluate how they can produce higher quality products in a cost-effective way.

Process engineers are responsible for transforming raw materials into products. The products could be anything, for example, gas, oil, food, or drink. They oversee the industrial processes that create these products. They also design the processes, equipment, systems, and methods to transform materials into the full product.

Process engineers are similar to chemical engineers and manufacturing engineers. However, process engineers have more of a focus on mathematics and physics than chemical engineers, and manufacturing engineers are generally trained more for chain management. Nonetheless, there is certainly some crossover. Process engineers do still work on chemical and biochemical processes.

A process engineer job description includes: 

• Creating and developing processes to make certain products throughout the factory. Must create them with the aim of maximum output and minimum issues.
• Re-analysing processes by considering cutting costs, increasing productivity and optimising work.
• Designing and manufacturing equipment.
• Testing equipment to check for any issues and maintaining it.
• Managing costs for new equipment, including researching the prices and helping with purchasing.
• Abiding by internal and external protocols and regulations.
• Running risk assessments.
• Overseeing processes in the plant and the safety of employees while working there. 
• Collecting and analysing data on budgets and efficiency. 
• Reporting and completing other paperwork on findings.

The process engineer career path generally starts with a degree. Related subjects are chemistry, physics, manufacturing and industrial engineering. Post-graduate education is beneficial – some jobs will require a master’s degree or even a PhD. Vocational experience is also crucial – internships and work experience will strengthen an application.

After working in the field for some time, a process engineer will need to gain accreditation from their institute of chemical engineers. Gaining this accreditation will help a candidate progress up the career ladder and boost their salary.

Process engineers must be highly skilled in IT and maths, as their day to day tasks will include frequent use of both academic areas. They should be able to look at situations analytically, and enjoy problem-solving – as a large part of their career will involve analysing problems and producing solutions to them.

Attention to detail is fundamental in being a process engineer; professionals in this vocation should be meticulous about ensuring that the processes are running as they should. Business awareness and administration is also an essential skill, as considering how to maximise profits and increase efficiency is an integral part of a process engineer’s daily tasks.

Process engineers will generally work full time in a laboratory, factory, plant, or refinery. It is a physically tiring job; professionals may be required to spend much time on their feet and might be working in cramped and hot conditions. The process engineer salary is generous and increases as a candidate progresses up the career ladder.