Explore This Path

Chemist

💰 Earn $74K-$128K

📚 Bachelor Degree

⏱️ 24–48 Month Training

📈 4.9% Job Growth

Perfect for those curious about the building blocks of matter and innovation.
Drive advancements in medicine, energy, and materials through chemical discoveries.
Unlock the secrets of substances using cutting-edge analytical techniques.

What Chemists DoConduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.

Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.
Conduct quality control tests.
Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed.
Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests.
Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.

Chemists Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationBachelor Degree

Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training Time2 to 4 years

Job Openings6,300 Annually

Median Earnings

$97,010 in California

$84,150 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@theebiocurlistphd

@ashleypposts

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Job security

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Science
Mathematics

Go Deeper: Chemists Explained

ChemistExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

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