O que buscam as empresas? Mapeamento de habilidades e competências do engenheiro químico em Fortaleza e região

Abstract

The job market for chemical engineers is quite broad, offering professionals the opportunity to work in various areas and sectors of the industry, such as food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and others. However, this variety of possibilities requires professionals who are increasingly well-qualified, with technical and behavioral skills that go beyond the basic training of the course. Thus, in the current scenario of growing competition and technological advancements in the world we live in, it is essential for students to understand which skills are most valued by large companies. This is a simple yet crucial step, as it can guide them to tailor their academic training to the position they aspire to in the future from the very first semesters of college. Therefore, this study aims to map the most sought-after skills and competencies for chemical engineers in the recruitment processes of large companies located in Fortaleza and the surrounding region, providing greater visibility into which aspects should be emphasized in the training of these professionals. The research covers internship and entry-level job positions, such as assistants and analysts, available in Fortaleza and posted on job platforms. This topic was chosen due to the growing need to understand what the job market demands from professionals and to align academic training with companies' expectations, especially because chemical engineers take on diverse roles in different sectors and must maintain a competitive professional profile. The methodology used is based on document analysis of job descriptions posted on employment websites such as LinkedIn, Gupy, Indeed, Glassdoor, and, in some cases, the company's official website. Additionally, conversations were held with recruiters from some companies, and a questionnaire was sent to students—future chemical engineers—to provide a broader view of the topic. After collecting this data, it was possible to identify the most valued skills and competencies in today's job market. As a result of this research, we expect to map the most in-demand competencies for hiring chemical engineers, serving as an information source for companies to adjust their selection processes and for universities and students to align themselves with market demands. Furthermore, the study also aims to contribute to the professional development of students by providing a knowledge base to increase their chances of securing a job in the Fortaleza region.