Careers: Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineer
Design chemical plant equipment and devise processes for manufacturing chemicals and products, such as gasoline, synthetic rubber, plastics, detergents, cement, paper, and pulp, by applying principles and technology of chemistry, physics, and engineering.
$46.57
Median Hourly Wage
6
Average Annual Openings
16
Near-term Retirements
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Information For Job Seekers
In this job, your typical duties would include:
- Processing information
- Analyzing data or information
- Getting information
- Working with computers
- Making decisions and solving problems
Is this a good fit for you? Skills typically required:
- Science
- Complex problem solving
- Critical thinking
- Judgment and decision making
- Mathematics
Start Here
Short-Term Training:
- Electrical Tech
- Pre-Engineering
- Electronics & Advanced Manufacturing
- Precision Machining Tech
Professional Certifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) License
- Six Sigma Green Belt
- Lean Manufacturing Certification
Experience in Related Occupations:
- Nuclear Engineer
- Materials Engineer
- Water/Wastewater Engineer
- Mining and Geological Engineer, including Mining Safety Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
Opportunity Outlook (2022 -2032)
Current Jobs:
62
Projected Growth:
25% in Maine
Hires:
21
Information For Career Advisors
Hire and Train
An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree is typically required for this occupation. Summer internships or cooperative learning is often required for graduation. With a Bachelor’s degree and 4-8 years of experience, workers can become certified by the State of Maine as a Licensed Engineer. From there, career progression can take multiple forms depending on the worker’s interests, prior experience, and skill attainment. To advance, workers need 5+ years within the role and to demonstrate leadership, experience, and capabilities.
Training
- Bachelor’s degree required
- No on-the-job training
- No work experience required
Requirements/Typical Entry Points
Short-Term Training:
- Electrical Tech
- Pre-Engineering
- Electronics & Advanced Manufacturing
- Precision Machining Tech
Professional Certifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) License
- Six Sigma Green Belt
- Lean Manufacturing Certification
Experience in Related Occupations:
- Nuclear Engineer
- Materials Engineer
- Water/Wastewater Engineer
- Mining and Geological Engineer, including Mining Safety Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
Workforce Snapshot
Current Jobs:
62
Projected Growth:
25% in Maine
Hires:
21
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