Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses pertaining to the chemical and physical properties and compositional changes of substances. Work may include providing instruction in the methods of qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Common Job Titles
- Assistant Professor
- Chemistry Instructor
- Chemistry Professor
- Professor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign chemistry curriculum and course materials integrating qualitative and quantitative analysis methods for undergraduate and graduate instruction in postsecondary settings.Advanced
- KnowledgeEvaluate student research proposals and experimental designs independently, applying advanced knowledge of chemical principles and research methodology.Advanced
- MindsetModel scientific inquiry and ethical research practices in classroom, laboratory, and mentorship interactions with undergraduate and graduate students.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize emerging research findings across chemistry subdisciplines into instructional content to maintain currency in rapidly evolving fields such as materials chemistry and biochemistry.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate original research questions and experimental protocols in specialized chemistry areas for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at professional conferences.Advanced
- KnowledgeInterpret complex chemical phenomena and spectroscopic data for diverse student audiences using visual aids and interactive technologies.Proficient
- Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of advanced analytical instrumentation including NMR spectrometers, mass spectrometers, and HPLC systems during laboratory instruction and student training sessions.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess student learning outcomes and competency development using formative and summative evaluation methods aligned with institutional and program standards.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate pedagogical best practices with disciplinary expertise to foster inclusive learning environments that accommodate diverse learner needs and backgrounds.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze quantitative chemical data using statistical methods and computational tools to guide student interpretation of experimental results and troubleshoot laboratory procedures.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for laboratory safety protocols and responsible chemical handling practices ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory standards in all instructional activities.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop collaborative research partnerships with interdisciplinary teams leveraging expertise in chemistry to address complex scientific problems spanning biology, physics, and engineering.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
20,390
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $52,870. 25th percentile: U.S. $64,980. 50th percentile: U.S. $86,220. 75th percentile: U.S. $125,920. 90th percentile: U.S. $171,600. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $52,870 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $171,600 |
| Workers on average earn | $103,030 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Chemistry4.8/5
- English Language4.5/5
- Mathematics4.5/5
- Education and Training4.5/5
- Biology3.6/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Auto3DEM
- Blackboard Learn
- CCP4
- Calendar and scheduling software
- Collaborative editing software
- Course management system software
- DOC Cop
- Desire2Learn LMS software
Tools & Equipment
- Atomic absorption AA spectrophotometers
- Atomic emission spectroscopes
- Automated polarimeters
- Benchtop muffle furnaces
- Benchtop orbital shakers
- Benchtop ultracentrifuges
- Capillary electrophoresis systems
- Carousel slide projectors