List of Jobs in Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of the chemicals composition of everyday things. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the demand for chemists will increase by three percent through 2018, resulting in the creation of 3,300 new jobs. A bachelor's degree in chemistry is necessary to assist in the field, while independent research usually requires a Ph.D. Those who pursue a career in chemistry may elect to work in a variety of fields within the discipline.
Analytical Chemists
Analytical chemists study the chemical composition of various materials, using a variety of methods. These include weighing, mixing materials with known chemicals (titration) or the use of electrical current, magnetic radiation or solar energy. Analytical chemists often find work in the pharmaceuticals industry studying chemicals used to make new drugs, or in government agencies or other organizations identifying pollutants in soil or water.
Organic Chemists
Organic chemists study the compounds in living things that contain an element known as carbon. Using known reactions between molecules, organic chemists work to develop new carbon-based compounds. These innovations are then used by a variety of industries, such as pharmaceuticals and manufacturing. The various forms of plastics currently available for making products are examples of advances made by organic chemists, reports the U.S. Bureau of .
Physical Chemists
Physical chemists study the energy involved in chemical reactions and in how chemical compounds form. The field combines the principles of chemistry with those of physics and requires a grasp of college-level mathematics. Physical chemists develop new methods of producing energy as well as processes for creating drugs, plastics, ceramics, electronics and personal care items, according to the American Chemical Society.
Materials Scientists
Materials scientists combine a background combine chemistry and biology to study the products of a company and look for ways to improve or replace them with more advanced products. Advancements in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, cleaning products, personal care items, plastics, fabrics and other products typically come from the work of materials scientists working in the research and development departments of manufacturers. While the average annual salary for other types of chemists was $71,070 in May 2008, material scientists averaged higher rates of pay at $81,600, reports the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Secondary School Educators
Some chemists opt for careers in secondary education, teaching chemistry to high school students, which requires earning a teaching certificate or license in their state of residence. While licensing requirements vary from state to state, typically experience student teaching, a specific number of hours of post-secondary education in teaching or a bachelor's degree in the field and the completion of a written examination of chemistry are necessary. The average salary for secondary school educators, as of May 2008, was $54,390, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Post-Secondary Educators
Chemists may also elect to teach at the post-secondary level. Those with master's degrees may teach at community colleges or as teaching assistants at traditional universities, while full professorships require a Ph.D. Chemistry professors prepare lectures, grade assignments and may also conduct research using university facilities. As of May 2008, post-secondary chemistry educators averaged annual salaries of $76,310, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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