Chemistry has always been considered one of the hardest subjects to study at the university level. The reason is that it requires a high degree of creativity and problem-solving skills. This makes it very attractive to employers looking to hire talented individuals.
There are currently over 2 million students studying chemical sciences around the globe. Chemistry grads are highly sought after because they possess a wide range of knowledge and skills. They are also able to apply their expertise across multiple industries.
Here are some of the top-paying jobs and careers for chemistry grads.
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1. Pharmacologist
The demand for pharmacologists grew by 6% per annum between 2010 and 2020. As more people become aware of the benefits of taking daily supplements, there is an increased need for pharmacists who can create unique formulations.
In addition to this, there’s also a growing trend in alternative medicine. This means that pharmacologists could find work in developing new drugs from natural. In addition, many pharmaceutical companies have begun hiring pharmacologists to create new drugs or improve existing ones.
Pharmacology graduates earn anywhere from $60k to $100k, depending on where they work.
2. Chemical engineer
Chemical engineers are responsible for developing new products or improving existing ones. There’s much variety in this field, as chemical engineers can be involved with everything from creating household cleaning products to designing oil rigs.
A chemical engineer usually needs a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. After obtaining a job offer, most chemical engineers will spend two years completing a master’s degree in chemical engineering (MEng). They may even meet a Ph.D. in chemical engineering afterward.
This job pays up to $120k per year. However, if you want to get into research, you can earn even higher salaries.
3. Chemical technicians
If you don’t mind working in a laboratory environment, then becoming a chemical technician might be right. You’ll need a science or technology diploma and several years of experience handling chemicals.
Once you’ve completed your studies, you’ll need to obtain a license. This allows you to safely carry out tasks such as mixing chemicals or using gas cylinders. It’s important to note that not all countries require appointments, so make sure to check beforehand.
After getting licensed, you can expect to earn between $35k-$80k per year.
4. Forensic scientists
Forensics involves the use of scientific methods to investigate crimes. This includes analyzing blood samples, fingerprints, hair, fibers, soil, and other materials. Forensic scientists often work alongside police officers during investigations.
They may also assist prosecutors by providing expert testimony in court cases. If you’re interested in forensic science, consider enrolling in a postgraduate course. These courses typically last three months and include specific modules related to forensics.
You may be required to pass exams before graduating. Once you do, you can expect to earn between $50k-$70k per year.
5. Synthetic chemists
Synthetic chemistry involves the creation of new compounds, including medicines, plastics, dyes, and pesticides. A synthetic chemist requires a bachelor’s degree and several years of relevant work experience.
It’s possible to study for a Master’s degree after obtaining employment. Most students take a one-year MSc program focusing on organic synthesis. This allows you to learn about different techniques used in organic chemistry.
It’s possible to earn around $55k per year when you graduate.
6. Chemistry teacher
Teaching is another great career choice for those who enjoy helping others. Teaching chemistry works well because there’s always a demand for teachers.
You could teach high school or college-level classes. Many universities also hire chemistry tutors to help their students prepare for exams.
Salaries vary depending on location and subject taught. The average pay is between $40k and $60k per year.
7. Organic chemist
An organic chemist uses the principles of chemistry to create new compounds. Some examples of these are pharmaceutical drugs, food additives, and fragrances.
To become an organic chemist, you must have a bachelor’s degree in either chemistry or biochemistry, along with several years of professional experience.
Many employers prefer applicants to have a Ph.D. in chemistry, but this is optional. Organic chemists generally earn between $45k and $65k per year.
8. Quality control chemist
A quality control chemist checks products to ensure they meet certain standards. They may test items like clothing, toys, food, and cosmetics.
Education requirements depend on where you live. In some places, it takes 5+ years of education to qualify. Other programs focus more heavily on hands-on training.
Most companies prefer candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry alongside several years of industry experience. Salaries range from $42k to $60k per year, depending on location and company size.
9. Analytical chemists
Analytical chemists perform tests that reveal chemical composition. They may look for impurities or measure levels of chemicals.
Some analytical chemists specialize in particular areas, such as medicine, biology, or environmental testing. Others conduct research into new technologies.
The job title usually implies a doctorate in chemistry. However, many people complete a master’s degree instead. Analytical chemists make between $55k and $80k per year.
10. Toxicologists
Toxicologists study how substances affect living organisms. Their goal is to determine what types of harm might occur if humans were exposed to them.
This field has expanded over recent years to include a variety of other topics. Toxicologists often investigate the effects of toxic substances on plants, animals, and humans.
A minimum educational requirement is a bachelor’s degree in science or health-related fields. It can be combined with work experience.
Salary depends on location and type of employer. The average annual salary is approximately $50k.
11. Wastewater operator
Operating wastewater treatment facilities helps keep our water safe. Wastewater operators typically collect sewage from homes and businesses. Then they treat the waste using filters and other methods.
They monitor the process by measuring things like pH levels and oxygen content. This allows them to detect problems before they get out of hand.
A typical wastewater operator earns about $46k annually. Most jobs require at least two years of college-level studies.
12. Hazardous waste chemist
Chemists use their knowledge of chemistry to help prevent hazardous materials from harming people. Hazardous waste chemists identify dangerous chemicals and then find ways to neutralize them.
They also prepare reports that evaluate the safety of different substances. Many hazardous waste chemists work for government agencies or large corporations.
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry is required for most positions. A few schools offer graduate degrees in this area.
Salary varies based on experience. Chemists earn an average of $56k per year.
13. Geochemist
Geochemical engineers use geology to find natural resources. Geochemists are one of these experts.
They search for minerals and metals underground. They also analyze samples collected by drilling and mining. Some geochemists specialize in specific areas like oil exploration or mineral processing.
An associate’s degree in geoscience is generally sufficient. But some employers will hire those without any formal training.
Geochemists earn an average of around $60k per year.
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Conclusion
Many doors can be opened for you if you study chemistry in college. Some potential careers include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. One other option is to enter the field of scientific research.
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry is essential for any profession. Learn as much as you can about organic chemistry.
You should also enroll in biology, physics, and mathematics classes. In the end, acquiring marketable abilities like problem solving and computer programming is important.
All of these skills should be highlighted in your resume. If you don’t, you might forget about getting that job. If you’re having trouble writing a resume, our team of experts is here to help.
