Chemical engineer, university engineer

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

University-educated chemical engineers primarily work within process industry, research and development, as well as environmental and quality control. Their tasks include developing, optimizing, and monitoring chemical processes in the production of everything from pharmaceuticals to materials and food. Much of the work takes place in laboratories, but also in production facilities and offices. The work environment often emphasizes precision and safety, especially when handling chemicals and technical equipment. Collaboration with other engineers, technicians, and production staff is common, and projects can be both long-term and ongoing.

Salary development over time

Salaries for university-educated chemical engineers have developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,200 SEK per month, increasing to 42 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 43 600 SEK per month, representing an approximate 8.5% increase over the three-year period. This positive salary trend reflects a continued demand for technical expertise in chemistry and chemical technology, despite the job market being relatively specialized. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as experience, sector (private or public), and education level. Private sector employees tend to have slightly higher salaries, especially those with shorter post-secondary education, while the public sector often offers slightly lower salaries but other benefits.

University Engineer, Chemical Engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 45,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 262 SEK
• Men (average): 44 000 SEK/month
• Women (average): 43,300 SEK/month
• Women’s share of men’s salary: 98%
• Regional differences: No clear differences reported

Education and qualifications

To work as a chemical engineer within chemical technology, a university engineer degree with specialization in chemistry or chemical technology is required, usually corresponding to three years of full-time studies. The education combines theoretical subjects such as organic and inorganic chemistry with practical laboratory courses and industrial projects. Internships or thesis work in collaboration with companies are often an important part of the educational path, and supplementary courses in environmental engineering or process control can be meritorious.

• University engineer degree: 3 years, specialization in chemistry/chemical technology
• Internship or thesis work: Strongly recommended
• Supplementary courses: Environmental technology, process control, quality management
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility + special eligibility in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
• Certifications: Usually not required but can be advantageous in certain areas

Common benefits and compensations

Chemical engineers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for skills development through courses and conferences. Other common compensations may include extra vacation days, flexible working hours, and sometimes bonus programs, especially in the private sector. Access to occupational health services and insurance is standard at many workplaces, and some employers also offer subsidized lunches or public transport cards.

Competitions and challenges

The job market for chemical engineers is relatively specialized, which means competition for certain positions can be tough, especially in regions with limited industry. Nonetheless, good opportunities exist for those with the right skills and flexibility in location. Challenges in the profession include staying updated with new techniques, legal requirements, and environmental regulations, as well as quickly adapting to changing production processes. An increased focus on sustainability and environmental technology also demands interdisciplinary knowledge and analytical skills.

Tips for those who want to become a chemical engineer in chemical technology

To succeed as a chemical engineer in chemical technology, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in natural sciences and problem-solving. Precision is an important trait, especially in laboratory work and process data analysis, while analytical skills help understand and optimize complex chemical processes. Being communicative is also advantageous since many projects involve collaboration with other professional groups. Curiosity and willingness to learn new techniques are significant in an industry where development moves quickly. Practical experience, such as summer jobs or thesis work in industry, can make a big difference during employment. Finally, staying informed about current environmental requirements and digital tools is increasingly important as these areas become more relevant in the profession.

Key facts about University Engineer, Chemical Engineer

• Education level: University engineer degree (3 years)
• Work environment: Laboratory, process industry, and office
• Typical working hours: Full-time, daytime
• Demand: 564 job openings in 2024
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 98% of men's salary

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, chemical engineers can advance to roles such as process engineer, project manager, or specialist in areas like environmental technology or quality control. Opportunities also exist to work internationally or in research and development. According to the Employment Service's overall assessment, there are no exact forecasts for the profession due to limited data, but currently, there are 564 job openings. The need for technicians and engineers with chemistry expertise is expected to remain, especially in environmental and sustainability sectors, but competition may vary depending on region and specialization.

Common questions about University Engineer, Chemical Engineer

• What does a University Engineer, Chemical Engineer earn?
  - The average salary is 43 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, sector, and region.
• What education is required to become a chemical engineer in chemical technology?
  - A university engineer degree with specialization in chemistry or chemical technology, typically three years of full-time studies.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What tasks does a chemical engineer perform?
  - Development, optimization, and supervision of chemical processes, quality control, and environmental work.
• What are the future prospects for chemical engineers?
  - Currently, there are 564 job openings in the profession, but no exact forecast from the Employment Service.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 45 100 SEK and the lowest 31 900 SEK, depending on gender, sector, and education level.
• What benefits are common for chemical engineers?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, skills development, and sometimes bonus programs and extra vacation days.