Chemical Engineers create innovative methods and designs as well as build instruments and equipment. Chemical Engineers have contributed to the development of atomic science, polymers, paper, dyes, pharmaceuticals, plastics, fertilizers, meals, and petrochemicals, among other things. Their work is varied and includes everything from lab research to field operations. Becoming a chemical engineer requires strong mathematical skills and science with creativity and strong problem-solving skills.
In order to become a Chemical Engineer in India, aspiring candidates can pursue Diploma, Undergraduate, or Postgraduate Chemical Engineering Courses such as BTech Chemical Engineering, MTech Chemical Engineering, and even Ph.D. Chemical Engineering. India is home to several top Chemical Engineering colleges such as IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Bombay, and NIT Trichy. To get enrolled in these courses, aspiring candidates need to appear in various Engineering Entrance Exams such as JEE Mains, JEE Advanced, BITSAT, VITEEE, etc.
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After successful completion of the course, many of the top MNCs such as GAIL, SAIL, Indian Oil, and Reliance Industries recruit Chemical Engineers. The starting salary of a Chemical Engineer in India is INR 5.26 LPA. However, with gradual experience and knowledge the salary of a Chemical Engineer can go up to as much as INR 30 LPA. Also Check: Salary of Chemical Engineers
Table of Content
- How to Become a Chemical Engineer: Quick Facts
- Qualifications Required to Become a Chemical Engineer
- Types of Chemical Engineers
- Steps to Become a Chemical Engineer
- How to Become a Chemical Engineer in India
5.1 How to Become a Chemical Engineer After 12th
6.1 Entrance Exams
8.1 India
8.2 Abroad
How to Become a Chemical Engineer: Quick Facts
Industry | Chemical Engineering |
Eligibility | Undergraduate or Postgraduate degree in Chemical Engineering |
Certifications | Fundamental of Fluid Mechanics for Chemical and Biomedical Engineers Optimizing in Chemical Engineering Chemical Process Safety Introduction to Mass Transfer Operations |
Top Recruiters | Reliance Industries, Essar Oil Limited, Reliance Petroleum, Hindustan Petroleum |
Related Industries | Gas and oil extraction Fine and heavy chemical industries Power generation industries Oil refineries Pharmaceuticals |
Required Skills | Project Management Skills, Analytical, Problem -Solving Skills, strong IT Skills |
Average Starting Salary | INR 3.80 LPA |
Highest Salary | INR 30 LPA & above |
Qualifications Required to Become a Chemical Engineer
The major qualifications required in order to become a Chemical Engineering are listed below for your reference,
- The candidates must have passed class 12th with a combination of Physics, Chemistry, and Math as their Core Courses.
- The aspiring candidates must appear in various entrance exams such as JEE Main, JEE Advanced, BITSAT, etc
- Aspiring candidates must have acquired an Undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering with a minimum aggregate of 60% and above.
- For admission in Post Graduate Course, the aspiring candidate must have done a B.Sc in Chemical Engineering, B.Tech in Chemical Engineering, or B.E. in Chemical Engineering.
Types of Chemical Engineers
The different types of Chemical Engineers roles available in the job market are as follows:
- Petroleum Processors- They develop or improve techniques to transform crude oil into different usable products. They follow a series of procedures to transform crude oil. Chemical Engineers work with different raw materials and are also involved with the development of new equipment to streamline the process.
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturers-Chemical engineers in the Pharmaceutical industry ensure accuracy, precision, efficiency, quality, and safety of the manufacturing processes. By applying advanced knowledge of Chemistry, biology, physics, and math, chemical engineers advance these pharmaceutical processes to make them safe, accurate, and effective.
- Manufacturing Facilities-Chemical engineers work involved in the production and manufacturing of products through chemical processes. They estimate the production costs and incorporate safety procedures.
- Lecturer- Some chemical engineers teach engineering candidates at colleges and universities. Chemical engineering teachers may help with a research project affiliated with the academy or devise their project. They teach classes, counsel, give lectures, candidates, and grade papers.
Steps to Become a Chemical Engineer
Some of the key steps that must be followed in order to become a Chemical Engineer are listed below for your reference,
- Step 1 – Complete Graduation: Earn a Bachelor’s degree in.Tech in Chemical Engineering, B.Sc in Chemical Engineering, etc. This will help in gaining a basic idea about the subject as well as help in creating a solid foundation on the same.
- Step 2 – Adapt Technical Skills: There are various technical skills that can be adapted in order to excel in the profession such as Interest in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Project Management, Data Analysis, Process Management, etc.
- Step 3 – Get into an Internship: It would be beneficial if a candidate pursues an internship as it will give him first-hand experience. Through internships, candidates will understand the actual role of a chemical engineer
- Step 4 – Pursue Masters Degree: After gaining some substantial years of experience, candidates can choose to pursue a Masters's degree in chemical engineering. Candidates can also pursue a master’s right after completing their bachelor’s. The candidates can pursue a Master’s degree from India as well as abroad.
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in India
To become a Chemical Engineer in India, one must start preparing from school. After clearing Class 10 board exams one must choose a Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as their core subjects. Post clearing Class 12th board exams candidates have to pursue relevant courses such as B.Sc in Chemical Engineering, B.E. in Materials Engineering, B. Tech in Biochemical Engineering, and many other similar courses that would help them understand the basic structure of Chemical Engineering.
Below we will discuss in detail the steps that must be taken in order to become a Chemical Engineer in India.
School Level Preparation: In order to become a Chemical Engineer, the candidate must follow the steps that are mentioned below,
- Those who want to become a chemical engineers should have an interest in the field of chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics in Class 12th
- They have to qualify for an entrance exam to get admission into a Bachelor’s degree program in Chemical Engineering or a relevant field.
- Candidates can prepare for the entrance exams by taking coaching classes such as FIITJEE, Akash Institute, etc.
- The candidates must also solve the previous year's paper and other mock tests.
How to Become a Chemical Engineer After 12th
Undergraduate Preparations: Some of the crucial steps that must be followed to become a chemical engineer after completing class 12th are mentioned below,
- At the undergraduate level, students aspiring to become Chemical Engineers should first focus on clearing the entrance test and getting enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program.
- The courses can be B. Tech or B.E. or B.SC in chemical engineering.
- Candidates should focus on different areas of chemical engineering and understand the theoretical and practical aspects of the course
- Candidates should try to maintain an overall of 65% and above in their graduation so that they can get enrolled in master’s in India as well as abroad
- Candidates opting for the PG courses should start preparing for the GATE exam.
Post-Graduation Preparation: The key steps to be followed to become a chemical engineer after completing Undergraduate courses are,
- After the completion of the UG course, the candidates can take the GATE exam to secure admission to the Postgraduate course.
- Several Universities tie up with various MNCs and conduct internships and assignments through which students can gain some real-time experience.
- After completion of the PG course, the candidates can choose to research further through Ph.D. courses.
Chemical Engineering Courses
Some of the top courses that can be pursued in order to become a Chemical Engineer are tabulated below for your reference,
Parameters | B.Tech in Chemical and Textile | B.E. in Chemical Engineering | B.Tech in Chemical Engineering | M.Tech in Chemical Engineering |
---|---|---|---|---|
Duration | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years | 2 years |
Eligibility | 10+2 Level with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with a 50% aggregate score. Must clear JEE Mains and JEE advanced for admissions in IITs | 10+2 Level with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with 50% aggregate score and pass the relevant entrance exams | 10+2 Level with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with a 50% aggregate score. | Must have passed B.E/B. Tech in Chemical Engineering and must have secured at least 55 % in graduation |
Top Colleges | Institute of Chemical Technology Textile Technology Shivaji University |
Birla Institute of Technology Punjab University Chandigarh University |
IIT Madras IIT Delhi IIT Mumbai IIT Kanpur IIT Hyderabad |
IIT Kharagpur NIT Trichy IIT Madras IIT Roorkee IIT Delhi |
Entrance Exams | JEE Main JEE Advanced |
BITSAT VITEEE CUCET |
JEE Mains JEE Advanced LPU NEST SRMJEE |
GATE PGCET |
Average course fees | INR 30,000- 70,000 per semester | Up to INR 2.50 LPA | INR 1.20 L - 1.50 LPA | INR 1.20 L- 3.21 LPA |
Average Salary | INR 3 - 6 LPA | INR 5 - 7 LPA | INR 6 - 8 LPA | INR 8 - 12 LPA |
Read more: Top MTech Chemical Engineering Colleges
How to Become a Chemical Engineer Abroad
Apart from India, there are several other countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia that offer Chemical Engineering courses. There are several renowned universities and colleges that offer both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. However, before applying for these courses one should fulfill the basic eligibility criteria that are discussed below.
- Candidates should pass class 12th boards or equivalent exams and must have Mathematics, Physics, and chemistry as their main subjects.
- The candidates must pass either of the English proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- The IELTS score must not be less than 6.5 and the TOEFL score not be less than 79.
- Some universities also accept SAT scores.
- Candidates must produce a Statement of Purpose (SOP) for studying across any of the counties abroad
- In the case of PG programs, the candidates must obtain a minimum of 70% score in their Graduate Examination.
- Candidates would have to provide proof of work experience in the relevant field.
- Candidates must also submit proof of their finances.
Top Chemical Engineering Colleges
India
Name of the Colleges | Location | Average Course Fees (INR) |
---|---|---|
IIT Madras | Chennai | 1.12 LPA |
IIT Delhi | Delhi | 1.06 LPA |
IIT Bombay | Mumbai | 56,030 LPA |
IIT Kharagpur | Kharagpur, West Bengal | 1.15 LPA |
IIT Kanpur | Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh | 1.12 LPA |
IIT Roorkee | Roorkee, Uttar Pradesh | 40,000 |
IIT Hyderabad | Hyderabad | 2.81 LPA |
NIT Trichy | Tiruchirappalli | 1.09 LPA |
Bharti Vidyapeeth Deemed University | Pune | 50,000 |
Birla Institute of Technology | Goa | 2.10 LPA |
Abroad
Name of the Colleges | Location | Average Annual Fees (INR) |
---|---|---|
Columbia University | USA | 41.53 L |
University of Southern California | USA | 58.96 L |
University of Edinburgh | UK | 33.62 L |
Stanford University | USA | 41.21 L |
University of Manchester | UK | 23.28 L |
University of British Columbia | Canada | 24.76 L |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | USA | 22.78 L |
University of Toronto | Canada | 20.01 L |
University of Melbourne | Australia | 41.01 L |
University of Sydney | Australia | 26.48 L |
Chemical Engineering Industry
With the emergence of industries and technology, Chemical Engineering is becoming a sought-after career, much in demand among engineering aspirants. This is a highly profitable branch of engineering with a huge scope for growth in India as well as abroad. Chemical Engineering is a broad field that has applications in plastics, textiles, food, pharmaceuticals, petroleum, and many more. All these sectors and industries hire Chemical Engineering graduates thus opening a huge scope for them in India as well as abroad.
The Chemical Engineering industry is witnessing a growth in sales and it is estimated that from 2016 to 2024 the industry will expand at 4.7% CAGR.
The chemical industry in India recently gained 6th position as the largest chemical producer in the world and is on an uphill. It is estimated that the chemical industry will double its size to $300 billion by 2025.
Some of the sectors where chemical engineering plays a major role are:
- Pharmaceuticals- Chemical Engineers are involved in various stages of Pharmaceutical development. They’re responsible for large-scale production, packaging, and delivery of pharmaceutical goods.
- Petroleum- There are many roles where a chemical engineering graduate could fit in as a petroleum engineer at an oil and gas company. Petroleum engineers are responsible for turning the raw materials of crude oil and petroleum into useful products like fertilizers and plastics.
- Biotechnology- Chemical engineers design industrial processes that convert raw materials into valuable products. The need for sophisticated products and sustainable processes makes Chemical engineers high in demand.
- Food Industry- Chemical engineers work on food additives or food preservatives to create better flavors and preserve the food. They create new products for meeting the demand of consumers.
Skills Required to become a Chemical Engineer
Some of the most essential skill sets that are required to become a Chemical Engineer in India are tabulated below for your reference
Interest in Chemistry | Communication Skills | Technical Skills |
Analytical & Problem Solving ability | Creativity | Strong IT Skills |
Project Management Skills | Interpersonal Skills | Computer Knowledge |
Pros & Cons of Becoming a Chemical Engineer
Some of the major positives and negatives of becoming a Chemical Engineer are tabulated below for your reference.
Pros of Becoming a Chemical Engineer
- High Salary: As a Chemical Engineer, one can make an average of INR 6.10 LPA in the early stage of their career. However, with an increase in experience, the salary of a chemical engineer can go up to INR 50 LPA.
- Other benefits: Chemical engineer is offered several other benefits from their employers such as health insurance, provident fund, travel allowance, rent allowance, retirement benefits, etc.
- Contribution to Advancements to Society: Chemical engineers play a role that can make a meaningful difference in the world. They could find new ways to harness energy by substituting traditional oil usage.
Cons of Becoming a Chemical Engineer
- Hazardous working environment: Chemical engineers may have to deal with gasses, and liquids on a day-to-day basis. As a result, failing to take necessary precautions can be hazardous to health.
- Long working hours: The area of chemical engineering is ever-evolving. Thus, chemical engineers must remain at the top of their game and they have to work for very long hours.
Top Recruiters for Chemical Engineers
Some of the major recruiters that hire fresher as well as experienced Chemical Engineers are tabulated below for your reference,
Gas Authority of India Ltd. (GAIL) | Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) | Reliance Industries Ltd. |
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) | Indian Oil Corporation Limited(IOCL) | Essar Oil Limited |
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) | Coal India Limited (CIL) | Nippon paints |
Salary of a Chemical Engineer
According to Glassdoor, the average salary of a Chemical Engineer ranges between INR 5.26 L- 8.41 LPA. However, the salary of a chemical engineer is also dependent on many factors such as skills, experience, company, etc. Read More: Chemical Engineer Salary
The table below discusses the average salary of a Chemical Engineer across various companies for your reference,
Name of the Companies | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
---|---|
GAIL | 6.06 L |
Indian Oil Corporation | 7.80 L |
Reliance Industries | 5.71 L |
Steel Authority of India | 6.20 L |
Essar Oil Limited | 5.11 L |
How to Become a Chemical Engineer: FAQs
Ques. What do Chemical Engineers do?
Ans. The role of Chemical engineers include:
- Conducting research to develop new and improved manufacturing processes
- Work Safety procedures for working with chemicals
- Estimate the cost of chemicals, drugs, etc.
Ques. What Courses to pursue to become Chemical engineers?
Ans. The courses to pursue to become Chemical Engineers are:
- B.Sc in Chemical Engineering
- B.E in Chemical Engineering
- B.E. in Materials Engineering
- B.Tech in Biochemical Engineering
Ques. Name the diploma courses to pursue Chemical Engineering?
Ans. Some of the diploma courses to pursue Chemical Engineering are:
- Diploma in Chemical Engineering
- Executive Diploma in Chemical Engineering
- Post Graduate Diploma in Chemical engineering
Ques. What are the areas of recruitment for Chemical engineers?
Ans. The chemical engineers work in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, design , construction, petrochemicals, food processing, electronic and advanced materials, biotechnology, environmental health and safety, etc.
Ques. What are other career options after pursuing chemical engineering?
Ans. The career options after completing chemical engineering courses are:
- Chemical Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Market Analyst
- Analytical Chemist
- Supervisor
- Lecturer
Ques. Who are the top recruiters for Chemical Engineers?
Ans. The top recruiters in the field of Chemical Engineering are:
- Government Organizations
- PSUs
- Narcotics Control Bureau
- Hindustan Copper Limited
Ques. Do Chemical Engineers earn a good salary?
Ans. The salary package of Chemical Engineers depends upon the performance and the years of experience. The starting salary of a chemical Engineer is around INR 4.20 LPA. Engineers with an experience of 5 years or above earn around INR 7.80 LPA.
Ques. Name Top diploma in Chemical Engineering Colleges in India?
Ans. The top colleges are:
- GLA University
- Galgotias University
- Government Polytechnic, Punjab
- Mewar University
Ques. Is Chemical Engineering a good job?
Ans. Chemical engineering provides some great opportunities for travel and working in different countries. They are in high demand inPharmaceutical companies, Food Processing Companies, etc. With the advancement of technology the demand for chemical engineers is increasing.
Ques. What is the duration of diploma courses?
Ans. The duration of diploma courses in Engineering is 3 years. For pursuing Diploma Courses, the candidate must have passed class 10th board exams with 45 % in Math and Science