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.
view jobs near youaverage 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 salary comparison tool! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a process engineer is.
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.
working as a process engineer
Process engineers work in lab and industrial environments. Learn about your potential colleagues, work environment and weekly schedule.
-
process engineer job description
What does a process engineer do? If you loved chemistry in school, process engineers use these same concepts on a much larger scale. All manufacturing starts with raw materials. Like a chef preparing a meal with basic ingredients, you'll figure out how to turn these materials into profitable goods.
These are just a few of the products that need your expertise:
- baby food
- lipstick
- whiskey
- vaccines
- butter
- medication
- circuit boards
- paint
Some liquids, solids, gases and powders are volatile when workers use them incorrectly. You'll develop methods for manipulating raw materials without endangering anyone. Likewise, you'll design new processes for companies expanding into different products. With your help, their systems won't need frequent reviews and upgrades because you got it right the first time.
Certain materials can create an environmental hazard. Under your guidance, supervisors run an environmentally friendly plant with as little pollution as possible. Your expertise also prevents chemical spills, air pollution and water contamination from misused items.
New or revamping businesses count on you to design their equipment and plan a layout for the factory floor. Your designs make the floor clean, safe and spacious, maximizing productivity. Periodically, you'll conduct quality control reviews to ensure that your operation makes the safest, most high-quality products.
Most process engineers work in a team. Your colleagues rely on you for professional communication, daily updates, constructive criticism and knowledge of the plant's inner workings. Frequently, you'll collaborate on projects and report the results to your higher-ups.
-
process engineer work environment
Process engineers often work indoors in laboratory environments with scientific equipment. You'll also spend time on the factory floor, inspecting equipment and finding ways to streamline the process. Manufacturing plants can be dangerous, so you'll wear safety gear and work to resolve potential hazards. Some industries require you to spend more time in the lab than the factory and vice versa.
Working from home is unlikely because your job involves hands-on duties. In fact, you might have to travel to different factories, plants and refineries. You'll also spend time in corporate offices and meeting rooms, communicating with supervisors and colleagues.
-
who are your colleagues?
Your colleagues may include fellow process engineers, plus chemical, production and manufacturing engineers. You could interact with engineers who specialize in specific areas, such as food engineers, thermo-fluid engineers, food engineers and chemical technicians. If you become a supervisor, other engineers will report to you. Likewise, you'll talk to factory workers and supervisors when you evaluate the machinery. Other colleagues could include payroll managers, front desk receptionists, HR assistants and mailroom clerks.
-
work schedule
Most process engineers work full-time for 40 hours a week. Hours can vary: some engineers work during the day, while others take early morning, evening or overnight shifts. You may work on the weekends and take days off during the week instead. If an emergency strikes, your supervisor will likely ask you to come to work immediately even in the middle of the night.
Since many factories operate all year round, you may have to visit plants and refineries over the holidays. Whether your schedule rotates shifts or has the same shifts every week depends on your employer. Talk to your HR manager if you prefer certain days—they might work with your schedule.
-
job outlook for process
Generally, process engineers start with decent salaries and quickly advance to six figures. Some of the world's biggest industries need your services—if one industry doesn't work out, you can jump to another one. You'll have to spend time learning about the field, but the added knowledge makes you even more valuable.
Developing trends suggest great job security for process engineering. Technology advances, but factories remain essential, and safety regulations are as important as ever. Your specialized knowledge makes you part of a smaller job pool, increasing the likelihood that your dream employer will hire you.
Related positions include manufacturing engineers, robotics engineers, field service technicians and technician operators. Your experience as a process engineer makes it easier to change fields—since you know the basics, you'll spend less time in training. However, you might need to go back to school for new degrees and certifications.
-
benefits of working for randstad as a process engineer
Working through Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- being paid weekly
- flexibility
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
Want a permanent contract? But you wonder why it would be interesting for you to work with a staffing company? A temporary job as a process engineer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers, thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad, too!
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.
FAQs about working as a process engineer
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about process engineers.
-
do process engineers make high salaries?
Process engineers earn high salaries when they gain experience and enter high-paying industries. You can also expect health insurance, retirement plans, stock options, paid vacations and other benefits. When you have an impressive resume, you could start negotiating your salary.
-
how much education do process engineers need?
Process engineers need at least a bachelor's degree, but a master's or doctorate degree helps you advance in your field. Employers rarely hire engineers who never advanced beyond a high school diploma, GED or associate degree. Later on, licenses and certifications help you secure your place in the industry.
-
do process engineers have to be science majors?
You don't necessarily need a science major in high school, but taking classes in physics, math and chemistry helps you prepare for higher education. Afterward, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree, preferably in chemical engineering. Keep in mind that you'll use scientific concepts every day in the workforce.
-
should process engineers seek licenses and certifications?
Your first employer might not require a license, but once you've worked as an engineer for a while, getting your Professional Engineering (PE) license opens more job opportunities and could help you negotiate for a higher salary. Your state likely offers certifications that further your education. To prepare, you'll need a college degree, a mentorship and at least a few years of experience.
-
do process engineers have standard work weeks?
Many factories operate continuously, so process engineers often work on weekends, nights and early mornings. Your supervisor could contact you outside of work when an unexpected situation strikes, making you drop everything and head back to the factory. You could have to work on the holidays if the factory can't stop for a single day.
-
how do I find a job as a process engineer?
Applying for a process engineer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our process engineer jobs for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV. If you do not have a resume, no worries. Just check out our resume builder. This state-of-the-art tool will help you to create your own resume. Need help with your application? Check out all our job-hunting tips!
submit your resume
Make sure your resume is up-to-date, including information about your technical skills and certifications. Then share it with us to connect with a recruiter and be matched with job opportunities.
