Chemists
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
SOC: 19-2031.00
Common Job Titles
- Analytical Chemist
- Chemist
- Research Chemist
- Scientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign chemical experiments and analytical methods to develop new products or expand scientific knowledge, working independently or within research teams.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate strategies for troubleshooting experimental issues and optimizing analytical procedures by synthesizing data from multiple sources and applying systems analysis.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize information from scientific literature and experimental data to update knowledge base and develop innovative approaches to chemical challenges.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze qualitative and quantitative chemical data from experiments using spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry equipment in laboratory settings.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate advanced analytical instrumentation including HPLC, GC-MS, and NMR spectrometers following standardized protocols to ensure accurate results for quality control and research applications.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate experimental results and analytical data for compliance with quality standards in process control and product development environments, applying critical thinking and scientific principles.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply chemistry principles and mathematical calculations to solve complex problems in synthesis, formulation, and material characterization.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate scientific communication and documentation practices when preparing technical reports, presenting findings to interdisciplinary teams, and maintaining laboratory records.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess process efficiency and material properties through monitoring of chemical reactions, production processes, and quality control parameters.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate laboratory safety protocols and regulatory compliance standards when training colleagues, coordinating team activities, and managing hazardous materials.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform chemical syntheses and sample preparation techniques using laboratory glassware, balances, and safety equipment under controlled conditions.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Chemists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
83,250
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $53,210. 25th percentile: U.S. $63,930. 50th percentile: U.S. $84,150. 75th percentile: U.S. $120,210. 90th percentile: U.S. $154,430. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $53,210 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $154,430 |
| Workers on average earn | $95,940 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Chemistry4.9/5
- English Language4.0/5
- Mathematics3.8/5
- Production and Processing3.5/5
- Computers and Electronics3.4/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- C
- C++
- Extensible markup language XML
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Java
- SAP software
- Structured query language SQL
Technology Skills
- Accelrys Cerius2
- Accelrys DeCipher
- Advanced Chemistry Development ACD/1D nuclear magnetic resonance NMR processor
- Agilent ChemStation
- Apple iWork
- Apple iWork Keynote
- Apple iWork Numbers
- Apple iWork Pages
Tools & Equipment
- Air dryers
- Airfree/waterfree solvent purification systems
- Alcohol lamps
- Analytical balances
- Annealing ovens
- Atomic absorption AA spectrometers
- Automatic peptide synthesizers
- Autotitrators