Operations Engineer (Chemical Engineering), Master of Science in Engineering

What does a process engineer in chemical engineering do – tasks and work environment

Process engineers in chemical engineering are responsible for monitoring, optimizing, and developing processes in chemical industry environments. Their tasks often include managing operations of advanced production facilities, troubleshooting, quality control, and implementing improvements for increased efficiency and safety. The role typically involves collaboration with production teams, technicians, and research and development departments to ensure facilities operate according to environmental and safety standards. The work environment is often a combination of office and process plant, requiring both analytical skills and practical understanding of technical systems.

Salary development over time

The salary for a process engineer in chemical engineering has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 49200 SEK per month, rising to 51 500 SEK in 2023. The positive trend continued in 2024 when the average salary reached 52 300 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 6.3% during the period. This development reflects ongoing demand for high-tech expertise in chemical engineering and an increased focus on sustainability and innovation in the industry. Market needs for qualified civil engineers have contributed to salary increases, while competition for talent remains relatively high.

Process engineer (chemical engineering), master’s degree salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 52 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (women), 48,700 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month (women), 56,800 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 315 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of what men do (women: 49 800 SEK, men: 54 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: No detailed data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a process engineer in chemical engineering, a master’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field is generally required. The education often includes internships to provide deeper understanding of industry processes and requirements. Some employers also value additional training or specialized courses in areas like process technology, environmental engineering, or automation.

• Master’s degree: 5 years, specialization in chemical engineering or process industry
• Internship/trainee programs: Common during studies
• Certifications: Meritorious in areas such as environmental management, safety, or automation
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, specific requirements in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
• Further education: Opportunities for doctoral studies for those wishing to specialize further

Common benefits and compensation

Process engineers in chemical engineering are often offered competitive benefits beyond base salary, such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Other common compensations include bonus programs, further training, business travel, and subsidized meals at larger industrial companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as process engineers in chemical engineering is generally high, especially at attractive workplaces and larger industrial companies. Challenges in the role involve not only technical skills but also keeping up with rapid changes in environmental regulations, digitalization, and automation. Since the profession requires both analytical skills and practical problem-solving, continuous skills development is essential. Those seeking advancement often need to broaden their profile toward project management or specialize in areas like environmental technology or process control.

Tips for aspiring process engineers in chemical engineering

To succeed as a process engineer in chemical engineering, combining analytical ability with a structured approach is beneficial, since precision and problem-solving are central. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues across disciplines and help projects run smoothly. Those interested in technology and process development should actively seek internships during their studies to gain relevant experience. Engagement in student projects or networks within chemical engineering provides valuable contacts for the job market. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to new technical solutions are important traits, especially in a rapidly evolving industry. Continuing education in current topics makes it easier to stay competitive. Finally, showing initiative and a clear interest in sustainability issues is advantageous, as these are increasingly important in the industry.

Key facts about process engineers in chemical engineering

• Educational level: Master’s degree (5 years) in chemical engineering
• Work environment: Combination of office and process plant
• Typical employment: Full-time, often daytime with some on-call duties
• Demand: 564 job openings in 2024
• Gender distribution: Salary gap in favor of men, women earn 92% of men's salary

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open for roles such as project manager, process developer, or specialist in environmental technology and sustainability. Many choose to advance to managerial positions or work on strategic development of production processes. However, forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that there is insufficient data for an exact assessment of future prospects for process engineers in chemical engineering. Nonetheless, there are signs of continued demand, as 564 job openings were reported in 2024. An academic background and experience in relevant technical areas remain highly valuable for meeting future industry skill needs.

Frequently asked questions about process engineers in chemical engineering

• What does a process engineer in chemical engineering earn?
  - The average salary is 52 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What is the gender pay gap?
  - Women earn 92% of men's salaries; women have an average of 49 800 SEK and men 54 200 SEK.
• What education is required to become a process engineer in chemical engineering?
  - A master’s degree in chemical engineering, usually 5 years, is required for most positions.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No detailed data available on regional salary differences for this profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No specific forecast, but 564 job openings indicate good demand.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, and opportunities for further training.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a process engineer in chemical engineering?
  - The highest salary is 56,800 SEK (male, doctoral degree); the lowest is 48,500 SEK (female, shorter post-secondary education).