Chemist
A chemist is a professional who applies scientific principles to study the composition, structure, and properties of substances, as well as their interactions. They work across various industries, including environmental science, forensics, medicine, and food safety, often engaging in research and development to create new products or improve existing ones. Chemists typically hold at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry, with many advancing to master's or doctoral levels for specialized roles. Their work environment mainly consists of laboratories and offices, where they conduct experiments and document findings, often requiring protective gear for safety.
Daily tasks can vary widely based on the area of specialization, which may include analytical, organic, or physical chemistry, among others. Chemists play a critical role in addressing real-world challenges, such as developing pharmaceuticals, ensuring food safety, and creating sustainable materials. The occupation is growing, with a median salary of about $87,180 per year, and a favorable job outlook. Successful chemists usually possess strong analytical skills, a passion for science, and the ability to work collaboratively or independently on complex projects.
Chemist
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Mathematics, science, technology, working with your hands, research
Earnings (Yearly Median): $87,180 per year $41.91 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 6% (Faster than average)
Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Chemists apply scientific principles and techniques and use specialized instruments to measure, identify, and manipulate changes in the composition of matter and improve the way the world operates. Chemists study the composition, structure, and properties of substances and the interactions between them and put this knowledge to positive use. Chemists work in a wide range of industries, including the environmental, forensics, industrial, hygiene, food, cosmetic, and medical fields, among others. Many chemists engage in research and development to help create new or better products. Others work as professors, teachers, or consultants to government agencies.
Work Environment. Most chemists work in laboratories and offices where they document findings from the lab. Oftentimes they work outdoors, especially when involved in collecting samples from the environment or from crime scenes. Others work in factories where they teach plant workers which ingredients to use to make a specific chemical. When working around dangerous chemicals, many chemists must wear protective clothing and follow strict safety rules. The field of chemistry is generally a well-compensated one but may require periodic travel for work-related conferences.
Occupation Interest. A strong interest in and aptitude for math and science is essential to chemists in their day-to-day work. Individuals attracted to the chemistry profession enjoy working with their hands, performing scientific experiments, and creating computer models. Chemistry can be an exciting field as it involves making discoveries that affect everyday life, especially in the subfield of research and development for chemical manufacturing companies and departments of the US government. For example, the work of chemists can lead to finding a new medicine to cure a disease or developing a chemical product that keeps the environment clean.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Typical daily tasks of chemists vary by area of specialization and education level. Some branches of chemistry include analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical and theoretical chemistry, macromolecular chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and materials chemistry. The very nature of chemistry leads to the discovery of new chemical disciplines, such as combinatory chemistry. Chemists conduct both basic research and applied research. In basic research, there is no specific goal beyond contributing to the field of knowledge about a topic. Applied research is conducted with a specific purpose in mind—perhaps a new therapeutic drug, a new fuel source, or a cheaper or more efficient product to solve an everyday problem.
Many chemists’ jobs are found in materials chemistry, working for chemical manufacturing companies and the government. Materials chemists conduct research and development in areas such as paints, soaps, plastics, synthetic rubber, and other polymers, as well as materials for computer circuitry. Much of their work results in improvements of daily-use items such as cosmetics, cars, and airplanes.
Other types of chemists perform tests and analyses of a wide variety of materials, including contaminated water and soil, pharmaceuticals, food products, blood drawn from humans and animals, as well as retail products such as soaps, shampoos, and clothing. Chemists also mix chemicals that compose some of the most common household products. Some chemists search for ways to save energy and reduce pollution.
The amount of time spent in the lab and the amount spent documenting lab results can vary. Chemists are often on their feet working at lab benches eight or more hours a day. At other times, they are in front of the computer researching scientific literature or documenting their work. On most days, it is a combination of both.
Organic Chemists (022.061-010). Organic Chemists study the chemistry of carbon compounds. They conduct research into agricultural products and foods and have a responsibility in the development of many commercial products, such as drugs, plastics, and fertilizers.
Inorganic Chemists (022.061-010). Inorganic Chemists conduct experiments on substances that are free or relatively free of carbon. They may also conduct research in relation to metals, ores, gases, heavy chemicals, and products such as glass.
Physical Chemists (022.061-010). Physical Chemists conduct research into the relationships between chemical and physical properties of organic and inorganic compounds. Their research often results in new and better sources of energy.
Biochemists (041.061-026).Biochemists study the chemical composition of living things.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Chemists work mostly in lab and office environments, standing up or sitting on stools at standard lab benches. In situations where chemicals should not be inhaled, chemists use fume hoods. Most labs contain various pressurized gases as well as special ion-free water. Chemists are required to wear personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, gloves, and lab coats. In some cases, they may need to wear face shields, respirators, or even full-body suits with supplied air to guard against biohazards or exposure to other toxic materials.
Human Environment. Depending on the situation, chemists may interact with other scientists and engineers in a team or may work independently. Some subfields of chemistry are more interdisciplinary and involve the collaboration of biologists, chemists, and physicists. In these cases, it is essential to be able to communicate well in a team environment.
Technological Environment. Most chemists work with highly sophisticated technologies inside both the laboratory and the office. They work with advanced analytical equipment and access the Internet to read scientific papers on topics they may be researching. They spend hours at computers using data acquisition, analytical, and presentation software to obtain, analyze, and document their lab findings. Strong computer skills and knowledge of a variety of software applications is a necessity.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students interested in becoming a chemist should pursue a college preparatory course, with an emphasis on math and science. They should be curious, enjoy investigating theories and testing them through experimentation, and have a strong aptitude for logical reasoning. Preparing for advanced-level studies in chemistry requires maintaining good grades overall. Some chemical companies make summer jobs or internships available to interested high school students.
Postsecondary. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry is the minimum requirement for employment; however, most chemistry jobs require at least a master’s degree. For those who desire career advancement in research and development or teaching, a doctorate is necessary. Postsecondary students interested in pursuing a career as a chemist will be immersed in math as well as in materials, inorganic, organic, and medical chemistry. They should also join university chemistry organizations, network with chemistry professors, and find internships where they can gain practical experience. Becoming a teacher’s assistant can be an advantage when applying to graduate programs.
Related Occupations
Bibliography
"Chemists and Material Scientists." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Dept. of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/chemists-and-materials-scientists.htm. Accessed 27 Aug. 2024.