Chemical Engineer The chemical engineer is an invaluable link between scientific principles and manufacturing realities. It involves the use of chemical, physical, and engineering principles. The scientist in a laboratory does basic research to develop new compounds and processes. When the scientist discovers a product that may be useful, the chemical engineer takes over. They adapt the product for big scale manufacturing. They do this by designing a plant to produce the item on large scale. Thus the engineer is the link between the laboratory and commercial production. The chemical engineer s earnings depend on several factors. Their educational background dictates much of what the engineer will earn. Also, experience and the location of the employer will make a very big difference. The starting salary for a chemical engineer with a Bachelor s Degree can range from $30,000 to over 35,000 per year. An engineer with a Master s Degree can earn anywhere from $35,000 to over $40,000. A chemical engineer with a doctorate can earn $45,000 to well over $60,000. "To be successful in chemical engineering, one must be curious and persevering" (Finney IV 13). The person must be flexible in order to adapt to each phase encountered. They must also be ambitious. Honesty is another very important trait. They must be cooperative since they are a member of a team. In order to get a job as a chemical engineer, a person should have at least a Bachelor s Degree. The degree should be in chemical engineering. The degree is acquired by four years of study. Subjects studied include engineering, drawing, chemistry, mathematics, English and speech, computing, economics, and social studies. The actual specialization in chemical engineering is usually in the third year of study. There are many advantages that go along with this job. The career offers challenges in both science and industry. Also, the work allows for other companies to expand and hire more people. Thus, this creates new jobs. There are also disadvantages. First, there is a great responsibility placed onto the engineer. Also, there is a great deal of pressure involved with this kind of work. The future for the chemical engineer looks very promising. As new drugs and vaccines develop, the chemical engineer will be needed. This a new and exciting field to work in. Many people are becoming more and more interested in it. This increase in engineers called for and increase in jobs. Someone interested in becoming a chemical engineer should concentrate on the sciences in high school. They should be "good" at chemistry and physics. Also, they should enjoy these classes. Mathematics classes are also important. A knowledge of the computer is extremely important. Many colleges offer engineering programs. More specifically, most offer chemical engineering programs. MIT offers an excellent chemical engineering program. It is known world-wide for its engineering department. Carnegie Melon also has a great program. Montana University is of another college with a great engineering program. The occupation of a chemical engineer is a very exciting one. It requires a lot of responsibility and hard work. But, if you enjoy being part of a team and working hard, this is the right job for you.