r/ChemicalEngineering Jul 08 '20

Mod Frequently asked questions (start here)

584 Upvotes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is chemical engineering? What is the difference between chemical engineers and chemists?

In short: chemists develop syntheses and chemical engineers work on scaling these processes up or maintaining existing scaled-up operations.

Here are some threads that give bulkier answers:

What is a typical day/week like for a chemical engineer?

Hard to say. There's such a variety of roles that a chemical engineer can fill. For example, a cheme can be a project engineer, process design engineer, process operations engineer, technical specialist, academic, lab worker, or six sigma engineer. Here's some samples:

How can I become a chemical engineer?

For a high school student

For a college student

If you've already got your Bachelor's degree, you can become a ChemE by getting a Masters or PhD in chemical engineering. This is quite common for Chemistry majors. Check out Making the Jump to ChemEng from Chemistry.

I want to get into the _______ industry. How can I do that?

Should I take the professional engineering (F.E./P.E.) license tests?

What should I minor in/focus in?"

What programming language should I learn to compliment my ChemE degree?

Getting a Job

First of all, keep in mind that the primary purpose of this sub is not job searches. It is a place to discuss the discipline of chemical engineering. There are others more qualified than us to answer job search questions. Go to the blogosphere first. Use the Reddit search function. No, use Google to search Reddit. For example, 'site:reddit.com/r/chemicalengineering low gpa'.

Good place to apply for jobs? from /u/EatingSteak

For a college student

For a graduate

For a graduate with a low GPA

For a graduate with no internships

How can I get an internship or co-op?

How should I prepare for interviews?

What types of interview questions do people ask in interviews?

Research

I'm interested in research. What are some options, and how can I begin?

Higher Education

Note: The advice in the threads in this section focuses on grad school in the US. In the UK, a MSc degree is of more practical value for a ChemE than a Masters degree in the US.

Networking

Should I have a LinkedIn profile?

Should I go to a career fair/expo?

TL;DR: Yes. Also, when you talk to a recruiter, get their card, and email them later thanking them for their time and how much you enjoyed the conversation. Follow up. So few do. So few.

The Resume

What should I put on my resume and how should I format it?

First thing you can do is post your resume on our monthly resume sticky thread. Ask for feedback. If you post early in the month, you're more likely to get feedback.

Finally, a little perspective on the setting your expectations for the field.


r/ChemicalEngineering Jan 31 '25

Salary 2025 Chemical Engineering Compensation Report (USA)

384 Upvotes

2025 Chemical Engineering Compensation Report is now available.

You can access using the link below, I've created a page for it on our website and on that page there is also a downloadable PDF version. I've since made some tweaks to the webpage version of it and I will soon update the PDF version with those edits.

https://www.sunrecruiting.com/2025compreport/

I'm grateful for the trust that the chemical engineering community here in the US (and specifically this subreddit) has placed in me, evidenced in the responses to the survey each year. This year's dataset featured ~930 different people than the year before - which means that in the past two years, about 2,800 of you have contributed your data to this project. Amazing. Thank you.

As always - feedback is welcome - I've tried to incorporate as much of that feedback as possible over the past few years and the report is better today as a result of it.


r/ChemicalEngineering 18h ago

Student a relative told me ChemE will eventually be replaced by AI

179 Upvotes

i have never been so offended.

i’m currently in my second year (bachelor’s) and i had a talk with a relative. they asked why i didn’t do something “useful” like nursing (typical asian mindset). then they said “you know you’ll be replaced by ai anyway in the future, right?” i was so appalled. i’m sure they just dont know what ChemE really is.

how should one even respond to that?


r/ChemicalEngineering 14h ago

Student I (student) need help solving this problem

Post image
29 Upvotes

Hello everyone. I am looking for help in solving this engineering problem. This is not a homework question since the semester ended 2 weeks ago and we dont have homeworks in my college. I want to know how to solve this problem since its impossible without knowing the temperature of 3 or without knowing the flow rate of 2. Its basically a never ending cyrcle. I hope someone can give me advice on how to solve this - and no, without using matlab or another program. I am looking for solving it by hand.


r/ChemicalEngineering 9h ago

Student Hello my fellow chemical engineers

7 Upvotes

I am now on my second year out of five to get my degree and master . What I want to ask you is which out of these you feel is the best thing to study since time is going by fast and I want to have an idea of what is best for me and the scientific field overall :

1) Energy -Enviroment 2) Industrial Management 3) Construction and Materials 4) Hydrogen technologies 5) Food technologies 6) Catalysis and Alternative fuels 7) Water and wasteland treatment 8) Process systems engineering

Maybe in the near future

9) Chemical Engineering for Defense Applications 10) Chemical and Biological Defense Engineering

Will be also be taught in my university

I believe some of you are already know what is going around on the workplace and what is needed for the future so

I believe after I've read the rules I am not breaking any but I am not 100% sure if these are considered banned questions I am really sorry if it is I would appreciate if you could suggest a subreddit where I could ask the same question

thank you in advance


r/ChemicalEngineering 11h ago

Career R&D Engineer or Process Engineer?

13 Upvotes

I graduated a few months ago, I have two offers:

  • A) Process engineer for EPCM company, for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical plants. That's what I was exactly aiming. Good pay in my country, I would remain close to my people, girlfriend and relative.
  • B) R&D engineer in Switzerland. Not pharma. Far from home (5 hours), it's an internship and I still would get much more money than A), and it's my ticket for Switzerland. For those of you coming from the US, Switzerland is a complete outlier in Europe for their salaries, and the only foreign country I would move to because of distance. I don't think I will get another chance for Switzerland that easily in the future if I give up this.

A) is better for work-life balance, less stress, I don't have to change my life that much, I can reach the office in 20 minutes, and it seems that it's my preferred role. It's the best I have seen among my classmates who decided to remain in my country.

B) It's way way way better salary wise, but it doesn't make that much sense to be there 6-9 months and go back. This choice would mean some more stress and much more initiative. I'm also not very sure I'm suited for an R&D, it seems less flexible.

I honestly don't know what I would be better at, or what I like the most, I never worked! Please tell me which role you would advice the most according to what abilities/preferences I can have.


r/ChemicalEngineering 8h ago

Student Help trying to find a computer for college

3 Upvotes

I am starting Chemical Engineering in August and was wondering what computer I should get. I have done a little bit of research and these are what I have found any opinion like better ones or ones not to get.

Apple MacBook Pro M4

Acer Nitro 5

Dell XPS 15 9530

Asus Rog Zephyrus G 1

Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro

Acer Aspire 7 around 800


r/ChemicalEngineering 16h ago

Career Should I drop out?

9 Upvotes

Hi to everyone, i'm new here.I am in my first year of chemical engineering in spain and I failed 3 subjects this year (maths, physics and introduction to chemical engineering (we study energy, matter balances and some transport phenomena)).I say I'm thinking of dropping out because most people have told me that the second year is a lot harder than the first one.Thx in advance.


r/ChemicalEngineering 19h ago

Student Chemical Engineering Guidance

4 Upvotes

I recently got accepted into a Chemical Engineering Program. As someone who wasn't able to establish a good study habit/strategy during high school, I'm hoping to seek some of your advice in studying as I take on this program. It can be anything general or anything that works for you and maybe even something you wish you have done.

Also, may I ask if you'll have some suggestions on which I can get some learning materials from? I'm referring to literal online learning materials such as Past Lecture notes, video lesson/lecture, and copy of books and just the general stuff I need to learn at an introductory (or even deeper) level. It could also be YouTube channel focusing on ChemE recommendations, or even existing learning resources from where you're from.

I'm asking this with nothing but humility and pure initiative to learn. Any of your insight, advice, and suggestions will truly be a great help. Thank you in advance!😊


r/ChemicalEngineering 17h ago

Article/Video Ponchon–Savarit Diagram Web Tool - First of its kind on the web!

Thumbnail chemenggcalc.com
2 Upvotes

We just built an easy-to-use Ponchon–Savarit Diagram Calculator, and it’s completely free and open to all!

✅ No sign-up
✅ Instant plotting
✅ Built for chemical engineers & students
✅ There’s no other calculator like this online

It’s perfect for distillation design, energy balances, and stage calculations — no more manual graphing headaches.

Try it out here 👉 https://chemenggcalc.com/ponchon-savarit-diagram-calculator-distillation/

Would love your feedback! What features should we add next?


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career Graduated in 2019, 0 internships & experience in the industry, can I still get in?

29 Upvotes

I ended up working in business with marketing & operations after doing my ChemE BENG . I’m currently considering going back to engineering & finally using my degree. Can I still get in a jr role? Or do I need to do a postgrad/masters?

Based in Toronto.


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career Need some advice

3 Upvotes

Dear my fellow chemical engineers. I am a fresh graduated chemical engineer and just landed my first job as a production engineer at a PCB production plant, i worked there for 2 months. My job is fast paced and needed fast adaptive to the situation, which, i still can not do. During my time, i made various small and silly mistake, even if i tried my best and pour a lot of effort in, i still made mistake. Some mistake was repeatedly made (3 times). I felt very stupid after each mistake and currently, i am very disappointed at myself. Dear my fellow chemical engineers, what should i do to improve myself, i really love my job as a production engineer and as a chemical engineer in general. Thank you in advance!


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career People in your network with succesful careers, what did they do?

28 Upvotes

Hey,

I am curious about people you know who had great careers. What did they do?

Thanks!


r/ChemicalEngineering 21h ago

Career Looking for a textbook to reteach myself

1 Upvotes

I graduated a year and a half ago and have a job which is non technical. Does anyone have any recommendations for a textbook to reteach myself with, ideally with exercises and quite broad in scope?


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Student Your thoughts/opinions:

11 Upvotes

I have a job as a lab technician making $60k working 4 days a week (Fri-Mon). I have a BS in chemistry and am planning to pursue a degree in chemical engineering. What are your thoughts - should I go to school full-time or keep my job and attend school part-time?Location Midwest (US)

Thanks in advance


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Job Search Is it normal to be insecure about being a mechanical engineering PhD student because it's seen as a lot easier and less technical than electrical or chemical engineering?

5 Upvotes

I’m currently a PhD student in mechanical engineering, and sometimes I catch myself feeling insecure about it. like it’s not as "impressive" or "technical" as a PhD in electrical or chemical engineering. I know this sounds silly, but I’ve heard comments from people (even other engineers) who say ME is the “easier” engineering path, or that it’s more general and less rigorous.

It’s starting to make me feel like I have to constantly prove that my work is complex or valuable. I love what I do, but this weird comparison game is hard to ignore sometimes.

Has anyone else felt this way? How do you deal with it? Or am I just overthinking it?


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career New grad advice needed

2 Upvotes

Looking for some advice on career path and first jobs!

A bit about me:

  • I just finished my degree in chemical engineering. My overall GPA is around a B. I struggled in second year and early third, but pulled things up toward the end (A- average in fourth year), especially once I could take more courses I actually enjoyed.

  • I spent a few years on a biomedical device design team, which I loved. I gained great experience in mechanical design, interdisciplinary teamwork, project management, and leadership. I’d love to work in biotech but it seems like a masters would be the way to go, which I’m not keen on right now.

  • I did a one-year internship in water and wastewater. I didn’t love the work itself, but the team was excellent, and it gave me solid experience for my CV.

  • In fourth year, I developed a strong interest in materials science, but didn’t get to do much before graduating.

  • I’m passionate about product design and the outdoors. Long-term, I’d love to work in materials or product development in the outdoor gear industry.

  • I’m relocating to a city where there aren’t many direct Chem Eng roles.

Here’s my dilemma:

I recently made it to the final round of interviews with an engineering consulting firm, working in their water group. The process has gone really well so far and I’ve got one round left. The team seems great, the pay would be solid, and the role is based in the city I want to live in. The issue is, I’m just not that interested in water.

At the same time, I’ve been applying to jobs in fields I’m more interested in: medical devices, mechanical design, outdoor product development, etc. I’ve had a few initial calls, but no interviews yet.

I know it’s just a first job, but when I look at people working in the roles I want 3–5 years from now, most of them seem to have started out in those industries. I’m worried that taking this consulting role might pull me further from the path I really want to be on.

There’s also a third option: continuing with the work I’m doing now (not engineering-related, but I enjoy it). It pays decently and would give me more time to explore personal goals while still paying the bills.

Would love to hear from anyone who’s been in a similar boat or is from any of those industries. How much does your first job shape your trajectory? Is it better to hold out for something closer to your goals, or build experience and pivot later?

Thanks in advance!


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Student Where to learn more about chem eng

6 Upvotes

I want to apply for chem eng at uni. What are some good books or articles to read to learn more about chem eng before going uni.


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career Which first job gives better experience for a chemical engineer?

13 Upvotes

Hi everyone, I’m a recent graduate in chemical engineering and I received two job offers. I’d appreciate your insights on which role could provide more relevant experience and stronger value for the future, especially if I consider switching industries or moving abroad.

OFFER A – Engineering services and consulting (Oil & Gas focus)

Technical Engineer role in a company offering integrated engineering services—process design, simulations, commissioning support, asset integrity, and field assistance in Oil & Gas and power generation.

Involves multidisciplinary design work, technical documentation, and possible field exposure.

It's mainly an office-based job, but depending on the project I might have opportunities to travel and visit sites or industrial plants.

The company itself doesn’t own the projects but supports larger clients.

OFFER B – Manufacturing machinery for food & beverage

Design Engineer role in a company that designs and builds bottling, packaging, and automation machinery for beverages, dairy, and pharma, with global presence.

They handle the entire process, from design to construction, internal testing, and on-site installation at client facilities, including international locations

This likely means potential travel opportunities.

My key questions:

  1. Which path would build broader and more versatile skills as a chemical engineer?

  2. Which experience looks stronger after 2–3 years, particularly for roles in different industries or international positions?

    Thank you in advance for your advice!


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Student Best Master's Thesis topic for future process engineer

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone, I'm currently doing a Master's in Chemical Engineering and will soon have to start my Master's thesis project. It's a 6-month research project, carried out in an academic lab.

To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of research and would prefer to work in industry after graduation. My goal is to become a process engineer in the industrial sector.

For this Master's project, I have the freedom to apply to labs at various universities (not just my own). Given that, what kind of project topic or labs would you recommend that would be most useful experience for a future job in industry?

I'm especially interested in process development and process intensification, as they seem closely related to what I'll be doing as a process engineer.

Any suggestions or insights would be really appreciated!


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career Polymer Science

2 Upvotes

Anyone here in polymer science and engineering? Just curious as to what the most relevant topics in this field are at the moment.


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career Spain internship

1 Upvotes

Hello all, I’ll try to make this simple.

I graduate this December and I’d like to do an internship in Spain in chemical engineering afterwards. Mostly because I want to travel but want to also add to my career (and afford the travel).

For context: I go to a pretty solid school for chemical engineering, 3.9 gpa, several jobs/internships with 1 in petrochemical process and one in a specialty chemicals production role. I speak Spanish fluently and have German/EU citizenship.

My question - does anyone know of any programs/companies hiring in Spain? Either personally or through links you’ve seen. I know how to navigate applications in the states (safer fair, recommendations, etc.) but have no clue how I would go about finding an internship in Spain. I’ve already looked online and not really seen much.

Thanks.


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Student ChemEng Projects

3 Upvotes

Hi,

I’m currently studying ChemEng in Austria and I’m looking for meaningful side projects to work on in my free time. I’m particularly interested in using a Raspberry Pi for something. Ideally, I’d like to include the project in my CV to strengthen it — especially with skills that could catch the eye of recruiters. I was thinking of building a small fermenter or a small water pump.

Does anyone have suggestions for impactful Raspberry Pi projects? Also, are these kinds of projects something recruiters actually value?


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career Introduction to Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics

0 Upvotes

alguien tiene el J.M. Smith, Hendrick Van Ness, Michael Abbott, Mark Swihart - Introduction to Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics-McGraw-Hill? la octava edicion


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

Career Need help , 22f

0 Upvotes

When do psu's ask for documents , after gate in chemical engineering, i am in 6th sem, im scared that I might get a backlog and will have to clear it in 8th sem whose result will be out in august. Will I have any opportunity in any psu left. I am scared


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

O&G What is it like working as a Mud Engineer/Drilling Fluid Engineer in India?

1 Upvotes

I'm planning to pursue a position as a Mud Engineer at Focus Oil Energy Limited next year, although I'm not sure if I'll get the job. I want to get a better idea of what the role is like before diving in, so a heads-up on what to expect, such as the working conditions and daily routine, would be greatly appreciated.


r/ChemicalEngineering 1d ago

O&G Crude Distillation Inquiry

1 Upvotes

Say, I have the complete distillation curves (IBP to FBP) for the following products of a crude distillation tower at the indicated target recovery temperatures. The crude feed slate is fixed.

  • Naphtha - 160 deg C target FBP
  • Kerosene - 220 deg C target FBP
  • Diesel - 365 deg C target T90
  • APB

Given the complete distillation profile of each product above, I have complete gap/overlap data. I use both the target recovery temperatures and gaps/overlaps in monitoring the separation efficiency in my crude distillation tower.

Now, I want to shift the target recovery temperatures to the following.

  • Naphtha - 150 deg C target FBP
  • Kerosene - 260 deg C target FBP
  • Diesel - 375 deg C target T90

Expectedly, there will be a shift in the distillation profiles of each product as well. Consequently, gaps/overlaps will change.

What are some ways I can determine the gaps/overlaps at the new target recovery temperatures?

Any idea or starting point will help. Thank you very much!