Working as a Chemical Engineer
Industry Overview
There are approximately 1,050 people working as Chemical Engineers in British Columbia. Job prospects are expected to be moderate for the 2023 to 2025 period. Almost 80% of chemical engineering jobs are in the Mainland/Southwest region of the Province. Job prospects are considered very good in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Environmental protection is an area with considerable potential for employment growth. This specialization is relatively new and is still undergoing development.
More information:
Job Outlook in BC
Employment Outlook Chemical Engineers
Chart from WorkBC
WorkBC provides job openings in BC regions:
| Region | Employment in 2023 |
Average Annual Employment Growth 2023-2033 |
Expected Number of Job Openings 2023-2033 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver Island | 45 | 0.0% | 20 |
| Lower Mainland /Southwest | 810 | 1.2% | 240 |
| Thompson-Okanagan | 75 | 0.8% | 40 |
| Cariboo | 25 | 0.7% | 10 |
| Kootenay | 40 | -0.3% | 20 |
Types of Employers
Chemical Engineers are employed in a wide range of organizations including:
- manufacturing and processing industries
- consulting firms
- government
- research organizations
- educational institutions
- professional, scientific or technical businesses
You can work for companies ranging from huge oil refineries to small breweries.
Salary
The median annual salary for chemical engineers working full-time in BC is $99,650. Your salary depends on experience, level of education, location, and employer.
In addition to a salary, most full-time engineers receive health and dental benefits, paid sick days, and paid vacations.
Sources: WorkBC & Career Cruising
In BC regions, you can expect to make:
Source: Job Bank, Wage Report
Working Hours
Chemical engineers usually work full-time, 8 to 9 hours a day, and 40 to 50 hours a week.
Evening and weekend work is rare but may be required in emergencies.
Source: Career Cruising