Case Study - Chemical Process Engineer

Name: Ruth Clancy
Job: Chemical Process Engineer  (www.dairygold.ie)

I’m working in Dairygold Food Ingredients at Castlefarm in Mitchellstown at the moment.

I always liked maths and so I wanted to study a course that involved using logic for problem solving on a practical level. The idea of working in a lab never appealed to me as I imagined it would be repetitive and boring.  I envisaged engineering to be much more hands-on and practical, which it is in Dairygold. My career path can be as versatile as I want it to be, and if I want I can combine it with travelling in the future.

I completed a B.Eng (Hons) in Chemical and Process Engineering in Cork Institute of Technology and I’m currently studying for Diploma n Management. My qualification means that job opportunities are very good, because I am not restricted to working in any one location. Process engineers can work in industries such as pharmaceutical, dairy, food and beverage, IT, project management, research and development. This course is only done in three locations in Ireland; therefore graduates are in short supply and demand of graduates is high.

The pharmaceutical industry is at a slight downturn at the moment, which means process engineers have to consider other, less lucrative, sources of employment.

Dairygold is a fast growing company with excellent project opportunities; some of which I’ve been lucky to be involved in. I am currently working on an effluent plant upgrade, and ensuring adherence to environmental limits with the current set-up.

Chemical engineering is demanding and generally competitive. To achieve a good qualification you must be have a practical and logical approach to work and be able to work in a pressurised environment. Employers look very favourably on graduates that are enthusiastic and willing to travel, so that is something to bear in mind.