As a chemical metallurgist, you'll need to: Design and control processes to separate metals from ore monitor and test for corrosion Develop ways to improve metals by making them stronger or more adaptable Test metals to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. Work with and analyse different reagents. Across all of the specialist areas, you'll need to: Interpret and understand design drawings and make recommendations Make manufacturing time-critical decisions Monitor quality standards in manufacturing and finishing Take responsibility for health and safety issues of staff and components in manufacturing carry out structural analysis using sophisticated computer software Write documents, manuals, metallurgical investigations, and reports in support of customer liaison discuss different solutions to problems with other technical staff Interpret customers' manufacturing design requirements and product application Install and commission processing equipment Research and develop test or repair technology and new products. What to expect Noise, dirt and heat are encountered in some metallurgical environments such as the heavy engineering sector. However, other environments, such as plasma spraying, require clean laboratories. In many environments protective clothing will need to be worn for some aspects of the work. If you work as a technical representative, you may need to spend time away from home at short notice. Travel is required in order to visit clients, and overseas travel may be required in multinational organisations. Qualifications Bachelor Degree in Metallurgical or Chemical Engineering, or a science Degree majoring in Metallurgy. Postgraduate studies may also be useful.