Process engineering combines physics, biochemistry and mathematics to develop effective manufacturing processes in various industries. Professionals may work as consultants or directly for facilities to improve production methods, equipment, and safety while maximizing profit and minimizing environmental impact. A bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field is typically required.
Process engineering is a branch of chemical engineering that focuses on manufacturing and industrial processes. Professionals in this field combine principles of physics, biochemistry and mathematics to develop more effective manufacturing processes. For example, process engineering can be used to determine the best way to transform an existing restaurant into a franchise. This can include everything from raw material procurement to the type of accounting software used to track sales. It can also be used to evaluate different peanut oil harvesting and extraction methods to obtain the highest quality product at the lowest price.
This field is relevant to many industries. It is widely used in food and beverage manufacturing, and can also be applied to wastewater treatment and water distribution. Process engineers may also work in facilities that produce thermoplastics, pharmaceuticals, or cosmetics. Process engineering is also used in power generation. It helps companies discover the best ways to extract materials and turn them into fuel with minimal harm to the environment.
Those wishing to pursue a career in this type of engineering will often need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field. While some universities offer process engineering programs, many students will be limited to chemical engineering or other broader fields. To be successful in this area, candidates must possess strong technical and scientific skills along with a sense of creativity. A creative eye can be useful for finding new solutions or techniques that can improve a production process.
Process engineers may work directly for industrial facilities, although some act as independent consultants. They may be hired to plan the construction and organization of a new facility or to improve production processes and methods in an existing establishment. These professionals may also be hired to design or critique new equipment, or simply write specifications and manuals to help guide current staff within a facility. The process engineer is based on scientific experiments and tests as well as existing data. He can use complex modeling software to evaluate different options within an industry or process.
The end goal of process engineering can vary depending on the project. For some, the goal is to improve the quality and performance of the final product. For others, it’s about maximizing profit by perfecting the manufacturing process and improving efficiency. Some companies may use process engineering to improve relationships along the supply chain. Ultimately, this process can help a facility improve safety or minimize environmental pollution during manufacturing.
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