Process Development Scientist

Also known as:

Scientist, Process Development

Introduction

Process development scientists research and develop ways to make products from raw materials. They solve problems and make improvements in existing processes.

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Work Activities

Process development scientists research and develop ways to make products from raw materials. They may solve problems and make improvements in the methods and technology used to manufacture existing products.

After an idea for a new product has been researched, the process scientist finds out how to standardise the item, and produce it on a large scale. They pilot test the most promising process, and, when a decision has been made, set up and supervise initial production ensuring that all relevant legislation and safety regulations are met.

Process development scientists often use sophisticated technology to monitor production and identify faults. They use equipment to measure and control conditions like pressure and temperature, for example, in metal and aerospace industries. They work closely with research scientists, discussing computer aided design (CAD) models and considering if materials are available to make the desired product.

Increasingly, process scientists take account of environmental issues. They consider ways to reduce the amount of energy used in the process, or the possibility of using materials that can be recycled. Scrap metal is often recycled in the steel making process.

Process development scientists sometimes need to wear protective clothing like gloves and masks.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

As a process development scientist, you must have an investigative and analytical mind, and a methodical approach to testing new processes. You will need to be creative and have good problem solving skills.

Process development scientists often work closely with research department specialists, so you must have good teamwork and interpersonal skills. The ability to write clear and accurate reports is essential. You may lead a team of technicians, so you must be able to organise and motivate people.

Many processes are being constantly improved, so you must be willing to learn and develop new knowledge, and keep up-to-date with technological advances. Increasingly, process development scientists need to be aware of environmental issues. You must also be willing to follow safety procedures closely.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for process development scientists vary depending on employer, role and responsibilities.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Process development scientists earn in the range of £21,000 - £26,500 a year, rising to £33,000 - £41,500. Higher earners can make around £52,500 a year.

They usually work a 39-hour week, Monday to Friday. Occasional late finishes may be required, especially as deadlines approach, and shift work is common in production work.

Employers are a very wide range of firms involved in manufacturing and processing, including metals, food and drink, colour technology, pharmaceuticals, motor and aerospace industries.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have skills and abilities gained working as a technician in a processing industry.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter a degree or HND course, you might be able to start one after completing an Access course, eg, Access to Science.

You don't usually need any qualifications to enter an Access course, although you should check this with the course provider.

Sponsorship for higher education study of science subjects is sometimes available from industrial organisations, some government departments and private companies.

• 4% of people in occupations such as process development science work part-time.
• 12% have flexible hours.
• 2% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as renewable energy or waste management.