The knowledge of chemistry, mathematics, safe and efficient design principles, and mechanical processes gained from a major in Chemical Engineering provides a strong career foundation. Graduates may work as researchers, designers, project managers, or consultants in fields ranging from energy production to pharmaceutical development to academic research. This major is also excellent preparation for medical or pharmacy school or graduate studies in engineering, public health, or environmental science.
Potential Career Areas:
- Research
- Planning and design
- Consulting
- Management
- Product development
- Food processing
- Drug development
- Energy production
- Defense
- Agriculture
- Education
- Sales
Sample Employers:
- Research laboratories
- Government agencies
- Fertilizer manufacturers
- Food producers/processors
- Petrochemical industry
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Textile industry
- Energy companies
- Environmental organizations
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Chemical Engineer
|
$56,500 - $90,300
|
|
Environmental Engineer
|
$54,000 - $87,000
|
|
Chemical Process Engineer, Petroleum Industry
|
$49,000 - $113,000
|
|
Engineering Technologist
|
$24,000 - $78,000
|
|
Sales Engineer
|
$51,900 - $87,400
|
|
Engineering Consultant
|
$42,000 - $141,000
|
|
Project Manager
|
$64,000 - $146,000
|
|
Research Associate
|
$21,000 - $61,000
|
|
Food Engineer
|
$49,000 - $113,000
|
|
Textile Research Scientist
|
$30,000 - $90,000
|
|
Packaging Engineer
|
$42,997 - $61,891
|
|
Engineering Instructor, Postsecondary
|
$45,800 - $89,700
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).