Chemical Engineering Technician
Job Description:Chemical engineering technicians help to research, develop and manufacture plastics, medicines, foods, textiles and fuel.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this role you could:
- help to design, build or install production plant equipment
- carry out laboratory experiments to develop new products
- monitor production processes
- record data and make adjustments to machinery
- carry out maintenance checks and make repairs
- make sure safety procedures are followed
- carry out quality control checks
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- complex problem-solving skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- design skills and knowledge (creative skills)
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
Entry Requirements:
To become a Chemical Engineering Technician, specific qualifications are important to prepare you for further education and training in this field. Chemical Engineering Technicians assist chemical engineers in various tasks related to research, development, and production processes. Here are the relevant subjects and skills you should focus on:
- Mathematics (Maths): A strong foundation in mathematics is crucial for understanding and solving engineering-related problems. Mathematics is essential, and higher-level math courses can be beneficial.
- Science Subjects: Chemistry and Physics are fundamental, as they provide the basic knowledge of chemical principles and physical sciences relevant to chemical engineering.
- English Language: Effective communication skills, including reading and understanding technical documents and manuals, are important for technicians.
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Proficiency in using computers, software, and data analysis tools is valuable in today’s engineering environment.
- Design and Technology (Optional): Courses related to design and technology can help you understand engineering principles, materials, and processes.
- Biology (Optional): While not mandatory, a background in biology can be useful, especially if you plan to work in areas of chemical engineering related to biotechnology or biochemistry.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
University
You can do a foundation degree in chemistry or higher national certificate in applied science chemistry or chemical engineering.
College
You can take a college course before applying to a company for a trainee job. Relevant courses include the following courses – or equivalent if not in the UK:
- Level 2 Certificate In Applied Science and Technology
- Level 3 Certificate in Laboratory Technical Skills
- Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science
- Chemistry A level
Apprenticeship
You can complete a laboratory technician or science manufacturing technician advanced apprenticeship.
Working Hours and Environment:
You could work at a manufacturing plant, in an office or in a laboratory.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could become a shift supervisor, eventually moving into maintenance or production management.
You could also move into materials development and design, quality control or sales and marketing.