Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
•   Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Working Life

Chemical engineers change raw materials into valuable products that we all can use everyday. They help to create and develop the processes that are used to make a huge range of products, including artificial fibres, detergents, food and drink, fuels, household cleaners, paints, pharmaceuticals and plastics. They often lead teams of other professionals and are often involved in every stage of a project such as production, manufacturing, design and electronics.  
 
When chemical engineers design a new process, they have to think carefully about its eventual cost, safety and any impact on the environment that it may have. To put a process plant into action involves the detailed design of the chemical reactors, heat exchangers, separation systems, storage vessels and all the other types of equipment that are used in the process plant.  
 
Chemical engineers have to pay a great deal of attention to safety. This includes managing the control systems that are needed for safe and economic operation of the process. Once a plant has been commissioned, it is chemical engineers who are responsible for its management and operation, and for supervising plant operators and maintenance staff.  
 
They also work on project design, for example, deciding whether a product should be made as a solid, a liquid or a spray. Design work will involve the use of computer-aided design (CAD) technology.  
 
Chemical engineers work closely with other experts. For example, they may be involved with civil engineers to provide foundations, access roads and structures to support the various plant items. They work with mechanical engineers on the design of specialist equipment, and with electrical engineers on the supply of power, with scientists in process development, and accountants/marketing professionals to consider the commercial aspects of production.  
 
Chemical engineers also have a vital role to play in protecting the environment. They work on ways to sustain natural resources, recycle materials and find new renewable resources. They aim to develop alternative technologies to solve problems such as the greenhouse effect and acid rain. Some chemical engineers are involved in groundbreaking research to solve these problems, while others hold management positions in areas where existing technology is used.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Monitor and analyse data from processes and experiments.
• Develop safety procedures to be employed by workers operating equipment or working in close proximity to ongoing chemical reactions.
• Develop processes to separate components of liquids or gases or generate electrical currents, using controlled chemical processes.
• Troubleshoot problems with chemical manufacturing processes.
• Evaluate chemical equipment and processes to identify ways to optimise performance or to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct research to develop new and improved chemical manufacturing processes.
• Perform laboratory studies of steps in manufacture of new products and test proposed processes in small-scale operation, such as a pilot plant.
• Prepare estimate of production costs and production progress reports for management.
• Design measurement and control systems for chemical plants based on data collected in laboratory experiments and in pilot plant operations.
• Determine most effective arrangement of operations such as mixing, crushing, heat transfer, distillation, and drying.

Further Information

• Chemical development engineer- from: GradIreland
• Chemical Engineer- from: N.C.S. [UK]
• Chemical Engineer- from: STEPS
• Chemical Engineering Technician- from: N.C.S. [UK]

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Entrants to this career must successfully complete a relevant BSc in chemistry or chemical engineering. Programmes are available in several of the colleges and technical universities.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: manufacturing, engineering operations, engineering technology, cleanroom operations.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: civil, mechanical, electronics engineering, engineering, technology, pre-university engineering, preliminary.

Search for PLC Courses

Apprenticeships: 
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.

Examples: Engineering.

Search for Apprenticeships

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: general engineering, chemical, biopharmaceutical engineering, biological and chemical sciences, biological and chemical science, pharmaceutical science, biochemical engineering, engineering, process.

Search for CAO Courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: engineering, chemical, biopharmaceutical, bioprocess, research, sciences.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

Engineers Ireland To apply for the Engineering title, you will need an accredited qualification and post graduate experience. A list of Engineering accredited programmes are available from Engineers Ireland.

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €45k - €90k

salaries vary by employer, location, duties, and experience.

Data Source(s):
Sigmar / CPL / Morgan McKinley / Brightwater/ Excel

Last Updated: July, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Chemical and related process operatives.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

The strong employment growth rate for this occupation relates to significant growth in employment occurring between 2021 and 2022, with an additional 4,900 persons employed. The volume of vacancies advertised for these roles was small across both DSP and OVATE data, although job adverts for this occupation grew in 2022 (OVATE). Despite the strong employment growth, the data is not pointing to any recruitment issues to date. 

• Engineers Ireland

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