Processing engineer, chemical engineering

What does a Process Engineer in Chemical Engineering do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A process engineer in chemical engineering is responsible for planning, developing, and optimizing processes within chemical production. The role involves analyzing and improving manufacturing methods, ensuring quality and efficiency, and working closely with both production and research and development. Typical tasks include creating process descriptions, testing new raw materials and techniques, and troubleshooting operational issues. The work environment is often diverse, switching between laboratory work, office tasks, and on-site production, where safety protocols and precision are central to daily routines.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a process engineer in chemical engineering has increased from 40,200 SEK per month in 2022 to 42 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.5% during the period, which is slightly above inflation and indicates steady demand for the profession. Salary growth can be linked to increasing skills shortages in technical roles and company investments in efficiency and sustainability within the chemical industry. The difference between annual salaries reflects a stable value for the role, with higher demands for specialized education and experience contributing to salary development. Salary potential is also influenced by sector and educational background, with private sector employees generally earning somewhat higher wages than public sector workers.

Process Engineer, Chemical Engineering Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 45,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 262 SEK
• Women: 43,300 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 44 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Slight variations, but private sector employees in metropolitan areas tend to be in the upper salary range

Education and qualifications

To work as a process engineer in chemical engineering, a university or master's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or process industry is usually required. Employers also value experience from internships, thesis work in industry, or additional courses in process control and quality assurance. Advanced knowledge in sustainability and digitalization is increasingly sought after, especially in companies focused on innovation and environmental adaptation.

• Formal degree: Bachelor of Science (3 years) or Master of Science (5 years) in chemical engineering
• Certifications: Courses in process technology, quality assurance, or safety
• Internships: Strongly recommended, preferably within the chemical industry
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented high school education with chemistry and mathematics
• Tips: Thesis projects in collaboration with industry can provide valuable contacts and increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Process engineers in chemical engineering are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, and wellness allowances. Other common compensations include bonus schemes, opportunities for professional development, and subsidized meals or transportation. In some companies, insurance packages and flexible working hours are also available, providing increased flexibility in working life.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a process engineer in chemical engineering is moderate, with a relatively stable number of job openings in the profession. The shortage of specialized labor in chemical engineering means experienced engineers are in high demand, but recent graduates may face competition for the most attractive positions. Challenges in the profession often involve quickly understanding new processes, managing complex regulations, and working with constantly evolving technical requirements. Digitalization and sustainability transitions also demand ongoing training and adaptability. The job market is influenced by economic cycles and investments in process industries, which can create uncertainty at times.

Tips for those who want to become a Process Engineer in Chemical Engineering

To succeed as a process engineer in chemical engineering, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a structured work approach. Being meticulous and attentive to detail helps with quality control and troubleshooting, while problem-solving skills are essential when developing or optimizing new processes. Good collaboration skills facilitate teamwork with colleagues from different disciplines, and strong communication makes it easier to explain technical solutions to non-specialists. An active interest in new technology and continuous learning is also important, especially in areas like digitalization and sustainable production. Demonstrating initiative and willingness to learn new methods provides a competitive edge in both employment and career development.

Key facts about Process Engineer, Chemical Engineering

• Education level: University or master's degree in chemical engineering
• Work environment: Combination of office, laboratory, and production
• Typical work form: Project-based work with cross-functional teams
• Demand: 564 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Small salary differences, women earn 98% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to senior roles, such as process engineer, project manager, or specialist in a particular technical area. Some choose to further their education in quality assurance or environmental management, which can open doors to managerial positions or consulting assignments. According to the latest forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no precise assessment for the profession due to limited data, but demand across the profession remains stable with over 564 job openings. Career opportunities are influenced by technological development and company investments in sustainability and digitalization, where engineers with broad skills and industry experience have particularly good prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Process Engineer, Chemical Engineering

• What is the salary of a Process Engineer, Chemical Engineering?
  - A process engineer in chemical engineering has an average salary of 43 600 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 43,300 SEK on average, which is 98% of men's salary at 44 000 SEK.
• What education is required?
  - Typically, a university or master's degree in chemical engineering.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 564 job openings within the profession according to the latest figures.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Process Engineer, Chemical Engineering?
  - The lowest salary is 31,900 SEK and the highest is 45,100 SEK per month.
• What is the working environment like?
  - The working environment is varied and includes offices, laboratories, and production sites.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and professional development.