Process engineer
Title: FCC Process engineer
Time with BP: 5 years
Typical day
There really isn’t much of a “typical” day per se, each day is truly different. I go through the current site support efforts that are currently on the slate, i.e. upcoming unit turn-around support, building of new monitoring tools, etc. Other days, I am traveling to sites for direct turnaround or troubleshooting support. The job supports all our FCC units overseas and in the US.Job rewards
Whether it is supplying the appropriate resources from other places in the company, finding a missing trend in the data, or offering other technical support, it’s great to feel like you have helped in a troubleshooting effort. Plus, it’s nice to work closely with very experienced experts – you learn a great deal each day.Prior BP positions
I worked previously as an Asset support engineer on multiple units. I have covered a hydrocracker, reformer, hydrogen plant, H2SO4 alkylation units, gas plants, crude vacuum unit, FCC, and amine system. I participated in two major turnarounds and lead catalyst changeouts on the hydrocracker, two hydrotreaters, reformer, and multiple vessels in the hydrogen plant.What’s next?
Ideally, the next step in my career will take me back to a refinery in a more senior technical position or management role. My current manager is very helpful when we review my Personal Development Plan. Although I make my own plan, it’s helpful to have the additional guidance in identifying gaps in my development.Background
I’ve already been promoted once since moving into my current role. BP is great about providing training. I was able to complete my Masters in Chemical engineering by taking day classes while still working. My manager allowed me to flex my schedule around my classes.BP environment
There is a very open environment. Where I sit, we have an open office plan consisting of a large room full of desks not cubicles. It’s great for fostering conversations while still providing a quiet workspace. Plus, we all have a similar desk setup which reduces the feel of hierarchy in the workplace, and promotes communication across all levels.My team
The team I work in is very experienced in FCC technology. Between our members, our team has 162 years of FCC experience. It’s nice to work with so many experienced mentors to learn from each day.What would you do if you weren’t at BP?
If I weren’t at BP, I would probably still be a chemical engineer elsewhere in the industry. I enjoy the challenge of chemical engineering work.Advice
BP is great company for a young engineer looking to get the challenges that refining and chemical engineering offer while enjoying the freedom of sculpting your own career path. Since BP is such a large, diverse company, the opportunities are seemingly endless.BP extracurricular
I participate in the BP running club in the Chicago area. It’s nice because there are small teams in your work groups and the requirements are flexible enough that you can still participate despite your work travel schedule. I have recently also started to become more active in the BP SWE team.Hobbies
I enjoy spending time with my husband and dog as well as traveling for fun around the US. I like to jog and try to play most sports. I am a huge football fan and also enjoy working on home improvement and decorating projects.Find a job
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