Process Engineer
On this page
- What's it like to be a Process Engineer?
- How to become a Process Engineer
- Latest Process Engineer jobs
- Top skills and experience for Process Engineers
- Process Engineer role reviews
What's it like to be a Process Engineer?
Process Engineers work in and with manufacturing facilities, particularly factories that deal with raw materials. They plan and track how raw materials are turned into industrial and commercial products ready to be sent on to consumers. Process Engineers need a thorough knowledge of all manufacturing and workplace processes, including safety, costings and labour utilisation. Their goal is to design and oversee efficient, cost-effective and high-quality manufacturing processes. While most of their day-to-day work takes place in an office, Process Engineers will sometimes be required on the factory floor to monitor or direct operations.
Tasks and duties
- Inspecting plant to ensure optimal performance and compliance with specifications.
- Being on call and attending callouts to continuous–process manufacturing plants.
- Identifying opportunities for increased efficiencies in processes and materials.
- Ensuring the safe, environment–friendly design and operation of manufacturing processes.
- Designing methods, machines and equipment to process raw materials into finished products.
- Reviewing current process performance, preparing reports and analysing costs and feasibilities.
- Establishing measurement protocols and analysing work processes and samples to determine labour utilisation.
- Overseeing and managing the delivery of raw materials and equipment.
- Establishing standards and policies for testing, quality control, quality assurance, inspection and maintenance.
- Determining specifications, materials, equipment, capacities and workflows.
How to become a Process Engineer
You typically need a bachelor degree in engineering or a related field to become a Process Engineer.
Complete a three-year bachelor degree in engineering, specialising in chemical and process engineering. Some industries may prefer candidates with a degree or specialisation in related fields such as geology, chemistry, or mining.
Consider completing a one-year honours year or a two-year Master of Engineering after your bachelor degree. This will improve your knowledge and skills in the field.
Consider becoming a member of Engineering New Zealand. This professional association provides community, support, and professional development opportunities for engineers in New Zealand.
