Chemical Engineer
28AI USED FOR28%moving to70%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £38,000
REGULATORY MOATThe law requires human oversight. That human could be you.
Skip to main content
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY →
Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers are the architects of innovation, transforming raw materials into valuable products that improve our daily lives. With a pivotal role in addressing global challenges such as sustainability and energy efficiency, these professionals are at the forefront of creating solutions that benefit both the economy and the environment.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
This job holds up well against AI
AI is used for a modest share of what this job actually involves today, and the law requires human oversight. That human could be you. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
Career progression path
Is this the only route?
This is the standard academic trajectory, but modern careers are highly flexible. You can often skip stagesby entering the industry with an advanced qualification (like a Master's or PhD), or pivot sideways from a related discipline.
0ACADEMIC FOUNDATIONUniversity DegreeUsually 3 to 4 years of full-time academic study, explicitly preparing you for the theoretical realities of the industry. Requires A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3.-£67,350Avg. UK tuition & living
1FIRST STEPJunior Chemical EngineerAs a Junior Chemical Engineer, you will assist in the design and optimisation of chemical processes, working under the supervision of senior engineers. Your role will involve conducting experiments, collecting data, and supporting project teams in various tasks.£30,000 - £38,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level Chemical EngineerIn a mid-level position, you will take on more responsibility, leading projects and mentoring junior engineers. You will be expected to manage budgets, timelines, and ensure that projects meet regulatory standards.£45,000 - £55,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Chemical Engineer / Head of EngineeringAt the peak of your career, you will oversee large engineering teams and projects, driving innovation and strategic direction within the organisation. Your expertise will be crucial in shaping the future of chemical engineering practices.£70,000+
1 live apprenticeship vacancy →
The degree route
Real courses in this career's subject, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Astronautics and Space EngineeringThe University of Surrey · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£41,500 median
🎓Electrical & Electronic EngineeringColeg Sir Gar · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£40,000 median
🎓Electronic Engineering with a Year in IndustryRoyal Holloway and Bedford New College · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£35,000 median
🎓Mechanical and Offshore EngineeringRobert Gordon University · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£33,000 median
🎓Mechanical EngineeringThe University of Bath · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£33,000 median
All Engineering and Technology courses as cards →
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Music TechnologyLeeds Beckett University · DegreeAstronautics and Space EngineeringThe University of Surrey · DegreeElectrical & Electronic EngineeringColeg Sir Gar · DegreeElectronic Engineering with a Year in IndustryRoyal Holloway and Bedford New College · DegreeMechanical and Offshore EngineeringRobert Gordon University · DegreeMechanical EngineeringThe University of Bath · Degree