Average ChemE salaries up 9% across UK and Ireland

Chemical Engineers have enjoyed a 9% pay rise since 2006, according to new statistics published by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)

The 2008 IChemE Salary Survey reveals that the median salary for chemical engineers in the UK and Ireland has risen to GBP47,000pa.

Dr David Brown, IChemE Chief Executive, welcomed the news and said that there has never been a better time to be a chemical engineer: "Not only are the salaries of experienced chemical engineers on the up, the average chemical engineering graduate salary is now GBP26,000pa.

"There is a growing demand for chemical and process engineers.

The impact of climate change is a matter of international concern and it will be chemical and process engineers who are responsible for finding the solutions" said Brown.

Chemical engineering salaries have risen by over 50% since 1996 and those choosing to work towards chartered status are reaping further rewards.

A chartered chemical engineer in their 30s can expect to earn 17% more than a non-chartered professional of the same age, rising to 38% for a chartered professional in their 50s.

IChemE has conducted a survey of its members biennially since 1980.

To reflect the growing international membership of IChemE, the survey was extended to include members in Australia and Malaysia for the first time this year.

For more information about the 2008 IChemE Salary Survey or to use the online salary calculator, visit the website.

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