Chemical Engineer

<p>Is this a great career? What do they do?</p>

<p>Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals and biochemicals. They design equipment and processes for large-scale chemical manufacturing, plan and test methods of manufacturing products and treating byproducts, and supervise production. Chemical engineers also work in a variety of manufacturing industries other than chemical manufacturing, such as those producing energy, electronics, food, clothing, and paper. They also work in health care, biotechnology, and business services. Chemical engineers apply principles of physics, mathematics, and mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as chemistry. Some may specialize in a particular chemical process, such as oxidation or polymerization. Others specialize in a particular field, such as nanomaterials, or in the development of specific products. They must be aware of all aspects of chemicals manufacturing and how the manufacturing process affects the environment and the safety of workers and consumers. ~Occupational Outlook Handbook</p>

<p>I used to be a chemE and I switched out into the actuarial field. The pay here is significantly better in the long run and the job market is far better. They are hiring like mad. When I was chemE, I couldn't find an internship so that summer I studied for and passed one act. exam. The next summer I got an act. internship in NYC and they paid me 4 G's a month.</p>

<p>I think chemE is worth it if you're going for the PHD at a top notch school. The kind of projects they overlook and see are fascinating and immense. Life isn't always about money. But good luck getting into a top notch grad program for chemE if that's the route you want to take. It's horribly competitive.</p>

<p>l live in California so I hope there is more opportunities here....when taking upper division classes, do they use any calculus? What is another great career related to Chemical Engineer?</p>