People who graduated as chemical engineers in the recent years, what are you upto?

[u/crabgo6]

Hello, I am currently a year 12 international student in Australia considering choosing chemical engineering as a major. For context, I’ve already heard a lot of people telling me not to specialise so early and choose mecheng or electricaleng instead. But the thing is, I’ve never really been that interested in either of these two ( I love quantum physics and Chemistry however ). Since I am also a fee-paying International student with not-so-rich parents, I have to work and pay off at least 30% of the course fees myself ( assuming I get a scholarship ) so, I do not want to make a decision that sets me back after I graduate.

I prefer to work in Australia as I eventually want to get PR but if I must move to find a job, I don’t really mind.

Here are my questions for you:

1, How is the job market for chemical engineers currently?

2, is it worth pursuing for job and financial security in the future compared to other eng degrees?

3, What is the base pay for a chemical engineer and what is the most profitable sector in Australia?

4, Do you enjoy your job and pursue it or did you take another pathway after graduating?

4, Is it worth doing a phd and eventually becoming a professor ( as a later goal )?

I would also love insight on certain universities that I have to keep an eye on! ( currently thinking of Monash and uni of Melbourne )