Chemists
What is a Chemist?
A chemist is a scientific professional who specializes in the study of matter, its properties, composition, structure, and changes it undergoes during chemical reactions. Chemists play a vital role in understanding and manipulating the interactions of various substances at the molecular and atomic levels, which enables them to develop new materials, pharmaceuticals, and chemical processes. They work in diverse fields such as laboratories, industry, academia, and government institutions, conducting experiments, analyzing results, and contributing to innovation in areas like environmental science, health care, and materials science. Their work not only advances scientific knowledge but also has practical applications that impact everyday life, from improving food safety to developing sustainable energy solutions.
Tasks
- Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods.
- Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.
- Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.
- Conduct quality control tests.
- Write technical papers or reports or prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests.
Technology Skills
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Data base user interface and query software
- PerkinElmer ChemOffice+ Professional
- Microsoft Access 365
- Molsearch Pro
- Structured query language SQL
- Presentation software
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Analytical or scientific software
- Agilent OpenLab CDS
- Minitab Statistical Software
- Vogel Scientific Software Group CALACO
- Waters Empower 3
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Graphics or photo imaging software
- Digital imaging software
- Graphics software
- MolDraw
- Development environment software
Tools Used
- Lasers
- Titration equipment
- Benchtop centrifuges
- Calorimeters
- Spectrometers
Knowledge
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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.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
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Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Skills
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Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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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.
Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Doctoral degree
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Master's degree
Work Activities
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Develop new or advanced products or production methods.
- Analyze chemical compounds or substances.
- Establish standards for products, processes, or procedures.
- Maintain laboratory or technical equipment.
- Prepare compounds or solutions for products or testing.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$52950.0 - $149550.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.