Process Engineer

Process Engineers are the people who start every project. They develop, configure and optimise industrial processes – in other words, they provide the recipe for success. Part of their role includes assessing processes, taking measurements and interpreting data.

Process Engineers provide chemical or biochemical processes to turn raw materials into an end product by using logical and creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

A BSc in either engineering, chemistry or material science is the minimum requirement. Engineering experience is also vital but for graduates straight out of varsity, interning might be a better way to start your journey.

Working hours are project based, with most days being the standard 8am-5pm but there are instances where extra hours may be required to meet deadlines. It is highly unlikely that you will have to work over the weekend with this career choice.

The current estimated annual salary for a Process Engineer is R217 000 to R770 000, with the average being R428 075. Most engineers are contractors and that means they are paid by the hour, the estimated hourly rate according to PayScale is R155.29 – experience and qualifications are what contribute to what this number will be.

Here are a few things you can expect from a career as a Process Engineer:

• Traveling for work. Depending on the size of the company, engineers might be required to travel to different locations for the completion of the project
• Almost all of the work is conducted in an office with little to none outdoor work engagements
• Industry is still male dominated, females may experience some form of hostility but more and more organisations are evolving and adapting to the females that have joined the workforce
• If required to work on sites or plants, protective equipment has to be worn