You can do a foundation degree, higher national certificate or degree in:

• chemistry
• chemical sciences
• chemical engineering
• biochemical engineering

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including chemistry

You can take a college course before applying to a company for a trainee technician job. 

Courses include:

• applied science
• chemistry
• T Level in Science (laboratory sciences option)

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

You could apply for a place on a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship to get into this job, such as:

• Laboratory Technician
• Science Manufacturing Technician
• Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician

With experience, you might also go on to do a Technician Scientist Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship.

These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

You'll need:

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• maths knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• complex problem-solving skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As a chemical engineering technician, you could:

• help to design, build or install production plant equipment
• research new products and processes in the laboratory
• monitor production processes and machinery
• record data and make adjustments to instruments
• follow safety procedures and regulations
• carry out quality control checks

We've identified this as a potential green job

For a chemical engineering technician to be a green job, you could:

• develop alternative fuels like hydrogen to reduce reliance on petrochemicals
• investigate ways to reduce waste plastic
• research more efficient and sustainable ways to manufacture batteries

Find out more about green careers

You could work at a manufacturing plant, in an office or in a laboratory.

Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.

You may need to wear protective clothing.