What Is a Process Engineer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

As a process engineer, often called a chemical engineer, you are responsible for creating efficient manufacturing processes in the manufacturing industry. You will evaluate current chemical processes and modify them as needed to ensure efficiency and profitability are maximized. You will also monitor processes for safety and environmental impact and seek to improve them whenever possible. Your responsibilities may vary depending on the particular industry in which you work and specialized skills sets may be required.

To become a process engineer, you will first need a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field. Gaining specialized skills and knowledge, such as expertise in fluid dynamics or polymers, via an entry level position or internship can be helpful when marketing yourself to potential employers. More advanced positions may require you to complete a graduate degree.

Becoming a good process engineer requires a combination of education and experience. Enrolling in a college or university with a strong chemistry program or a specialized program for process engineering is a good first step. Internships with reputable companies can provide essential real-world experience that will help set you apart when seeking employment. Generally speaking, good process engineers are always learning more about heir industry as methodologies and options continue to develop and change along with available technologies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial engineer jobs will experience significant growth in the near future. For example, the BLS projects a 10% increase in demand for industrial engineer jobs between 2016 and 2026 and an 8% increase for chemical engineers over the same period. Process engineers should experience similar growth. This is at or above the national average for all careers.

Job Summary

Our company needs a dedicated Process Engineer to help us improve and streamline our production workflow. You will analyze our current processes and determine areas that need modification. In collaboration with our project teams, you will create solutions and lead the development of piping and instrument diagrams. You will also oversee the implementation of the new processes and test them to ensure efficiency. Our ideal candidate has at least five years of project engineering experience and a substantial portfolio of successful project initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate existing processes
• Research, design, and develop processes to optimize productivity and workflow
• Oversee operations and maintenance of facility processes
• Determine the organization and setup of operations
• Oversee implementation of new processes and procedures
• Investigate and troubleshoot any problems that arise with processes, procedures, and operations

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field
• Master's degree or Ph.D. preferred
• Current state engineering license
• 5+ years of process engineering experience
• Portfolio of successful project initiatives
• Excellent communication skills