This occupation is part of Life, Physical, and Social Science
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About the Job
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
It is also Called
- Wet Chemistry Analyst
- Water Chemist
- Textile Chemist
- Soil Chemist
- Senior Chemist
- Scientist
- Sanitary Chemist
- Rubber Chemist
- Research Chemist
- Research and Development Chemist
What They Do
- Study effects of various methods of processing, preserving, or packaging on composition or properties of foods.
- Purchase laboratory supplies, such as chemicals, when supplies are low or near their expiration date.
- Direct, coordinate, or advise personnel in test procedures for analyzing components or physical properties of materials.
- Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods.
- Confer with scientists or engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop nonstandard tests.
- Write technical papers or reports or prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests.
- Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions.
- Evaluate laboratory safety procedures to ensure compliance with standards or to make improvements as needed.
- Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.
- Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests.
Interests
People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: IRC.
This means people who work in this occupation generally have Investigative interests, but also prefer Realistic and Conventional environments.
Work Values
People who work in this occupation generally prize Achievement, but also value Independence and Working Conditions in their jobs.
Things They Need to Know
- Chemistry - Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
- Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
- Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
- English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Things They Need to Be Able to Do
- Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Education Required
Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Wages
In 2017, the average annual wage in Pennsylvania was $74,680 with most people making between $42,780 and $114,710
Outlook
During 2014, this occupation employed approximately 5,920 people in Pennsylvania. It is projected that there will be 6,290 employed in 2024.
This occupation will have about 37 openings due to growth and about 133 replacement openings for approximately 170 total annual openings.
Education & Training
- Find Institutions Chemistry, General
- Find Institutions Analytical Chemistry
- Find Institutions Inorganic Chemistry
- Find Institutions Organic Chemistry
- Find Institutions Physical Chemistry
- Find Institutions Polymer Chemistry
- Find Institutions Chemical Physics
- Find Institutions Environmental Chemistry
- Find Institutions Forensic Chemistry
- Find Institutions Theoretical Chemistry
- Find Institutions Chemistry, Other
- Find Institutions Materials Chemistry
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