Group
Occupation
243131 Chemical Engineer
Latest release
Consultation draft: Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA)
Reference period
August 2026
Released
17/08/2026
First release
243131 Chemical Engineer
Designs and develops chemical process systems, equipment and specifications for the construction and operation of chemical plants and commercial-scale production, including transportation of chemicals, materials and energy. Supervises industrial processing and fabrication of products undergoing physical and chemical changes.
Registration or licensing may be required.
Specialisations
- Process Control Engineer
- Process Engineer (Chemical)
Skill level: 1
Main tasks
- Researches, designs, develops and improves chemical processes, process systems, reactions and materials
- Identifies ways to optimise performance of chemical equipment and processes while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations
- Develops operating procedures, safety protocols and methods to deal with by-products and waste materials, and troubleshoots problems with chemical manufacturing processes
- Collaborates with plant designers to develop chemical plant specifications, equipment and control instruments for the production process
- Supervises the fabrication and installation of equipment and systems for chemical processes and transportation
- Monitors and analyses data from processes, and conducts research and experiments to develop new chemical processes and improve existing ones
- Provides technical support and guidance to staff involved in chemical processes and plant operations
- May use computer models to identify cost-effective production methods while minimising risks