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How do I Become a Process Engineer?

D. Jeffress
D. Jeffress

Process engineers typically research different methods of making products and improve the systems and equipment used in production. They often have expert knowledge of chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering, as well as strong math and computer skills. A bachelor's degree is typically the minimum requirement to become a process engineer, though most hopeful workers pursue master's degrees to improve their credentials, knowledge, and chances of finding employment after college. In addition, a person who wants to become a process engineer usually should research different industries do find one that best suits his or her interests.

An individual can begin preparing to become a process engineer in high school. Courses in physics, chemistry, and math usually provide a student with a basic understanding of the scientific method and critical thinking, essential elements of a process engineer's skill set. A student can also take writing and public speaking courses to improve communication skills. Near the end of high school, an individual can begin conducting Internet research and speaking with high school guidance counselors to identify accredited post-secondary schools. It typically is important to choose a college with a strong reputation in the fields of science and engineering.

Aspiring process engineers can gain experience by working at a local manufacturing plant.
Aspiring process engineers can gain experience by working at a local manufacturing plant.

Most hopeful process engineers choose to major in chemical engineering or physics. During a four-year bachelor's degree program, a student has the opportunity to attend classroom lectures and participate in laboratory research projects. A person who wants to become a process engineer can gain practical experience while going to school by applying for internships and research assistant positions. Work experience as an assistant at a university laboratory or local manufacturing plant can be a helpful addition to graduate-school applications and professional resumes.

A career in process engineering might involve working in the pharmaceutical industry.
A career in process engineering might involve working in the pharmaceutical industry.

A person may decide to look for entry-level work after receiving a bachelor's degree. College graduates are eligible for many entry-level junior engineer jobs. Pursuing a master's degree in chemical engineering, however, can greatly improve an individual's chances of landing a steady, higher-paying process engineer job. A master's degree program typically lasts about two years, and includes detailed classroom and laboratory studies regarding chemical processes. In addition, many colleges provide job placement services for their graduating students to help them find work.

Education and certifications are key in landing an entry level job as a process engineer.
Education and certifications are key in landing an entry level job as a process engineer.

College graduates who want to become process engineers can explore job openings at pharmaceutical companies, food and drink manufacturers, and chemical plants, among many other settings. A hopeful engineer should carefully consider his or her interests and abilities when applying for jobs. A person interested in environmental protection and sustainability, for example, is probably best suited for a job in alternative energy production. Pharmaceutical companies generally prefer workers who genuinely care about the health of people who will ultimately use the products. By choosing the right process engineer job, a professional usually can enjoy a rewarding career with ample room for advancement.

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    • Aspiring process engineers can gain experience by working at a local manufacturing plant.
      By: christian42
      Aspiring process engineers can gain experience by working at a local manufacturing plant.
    • A career in process engineering might involve working in the pharmaceutical industry.
      By: RGtimeline
      A career in process engineering might involve working in the pharmaceutical industry.
    • Education and certifications are key in landing an entry level job as a process engineer.
      By: Marzky Ragsac Jr.
      Education and certifications are key in landing an entry level job as a process engineer.
    • Process engineers may need hands-on experience in chemical, mechanical and electrical engineering tasks.
      By: Sergio Di Giovanni
      Process engineers may need hands-on experience in chemical, mechanical and electrical engineering tasks.
    • Guidance counselors can help students find the right college program.
      By: Jeanette Dietl
      Guidance counselors can help students find the right college program.
    • Process engineers are often employed by drug makers.
      By: Lambros Kazan
      Process engineers are often employed by drug makers.
    • A process engineer may work closely with construction project managers during the design process of a structure.
      By: Kadmy
      A process engineer may work closely with construction project managers during the design process of a structure.
    • A process engineer may study the current operations of his company in order to make improvements.
      By: uwimages
      A process engineer may study the current operations of his company in order to make improvements.