Chemical Technician

Your Fit

Income

$57K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

3.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Chemical Technician?

A Chemical Technician works closely with chemists and chemical engineers to research, develop, produce, and test chemical products and processes. They play a critical role in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, energy, and manufacturing.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Chemical Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Chemical Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$38K per year	$46K per year	$57K per year	$73K per year	$93K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $8.69K above the national average.

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What does a Chemical Technician do?

Work environment

Chemical Technicians typically work in laboratories or industrial settings, such as chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing plants. Their work environment requires adherence to strict safety protocols due to the handling of hazardous materials and operation of complex equipment.

Quick task list

Assists in the development and testing of chemical products and processes.
Conducts experiments and analyzes substances using various laboratory techniques and equipment.
Prepares chemical solutions and materials for testing.
Maintains laboratory equipment and ensures compliance with safety standards.
Documents and reports experimental procedures and results.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Quality Control: Ensuring the quality and consistency of chemical products.
Process Development: Assisting in the design and optimization of chemical processes.
Research and Development: Supporting the creation of new chemical products and technologies.
Environmental Testing: Analyzing environmental samples for chemical contaminants.
Material Science: Studying and testing the chemical properties of different materials.

Description

Chemical Technicians are essential in bridging the gap between laboratory research and practical application in the chemical industry. They support chemists and engineers in various stages of research, development, and production. This role requires a strong foundation in chemistry and laboratory skills, as well as an ability to follow complex procedures accurately and safely.

In their day-to-day tasks, Chemical Technicians might be involved in setting up and conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results. Their work is crucial in translating scientific discoveries into tangible products and processes. Technicians must be detail-oriented, as they are often responsible for ensuring that experiments are carried out correctly and safely, and results are accurately recorded.

The career of a Chemical Technician offers a blend of hands-on laboratory work and analytical tasks. It appeals to those who are interested in science and enjoy working in a lab setting. Opportunities for advancement often exist, especially for those who continue their education or gain specialized skills.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a key role in the development and improvement of chemical products and processes.
Working in a dynamic field with diverse applications across various industries.
The intellectual challenge and satisfaction of solving complex problems.

You might make a good Chemical Technician if you are...

Fascinated by chemistry and its practical applications.
Skilled in working with your hands and operating laboratory equipment.
Detail-oriented, with a strong focus on accuracy and safety.
Comfortable with technical documentation and reporting.
Interested in a career that offers both laboratory and industrial exposure.

Pros:

Involvement in significant scientific research and development.
Diverse employment opportunities in various industries.
Potential for hands-on work with cutting-edge technology.

Cons:

Exposure to hazardous materials requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.
The need for continuous learning to keep up with technological advancements.
Potential for repetitive tasks in certain roles, particularly in quality control.

How to become a Chemical Technician

Typical education

An associate's degree in applied science or chemical technology is commonly required, typically taking about 2 years. Some positions may require additional certifications or on-the-job training.

High school preparation

Courses:

Chemistry and Biology to build a strong foundation in the sciences.
Mathematics, particularly Algebra and Statistics, for data analysis.
Computer Science for skills in data management and analysis.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in science clubs or fairs.
Engaging in laboratory internships or summer science programs.
Joining environment-focused clubs to understand the application of chemistry in solving real-world problems.

Preparation after high school

Pursuing an associate's degree in applied science, chemical technology, or a related field.
Obtaining certification in areas like laboratory technology or hazardous material handling.
Gaining practical experience through internships in chemical or pharmaceutical labs.
Continuing education for advancement opportunities or specialized roles.

More resources

American Chemical Society (ACS) - Provides resources and networking opportunities for professionals in the chemistry field.
National Association of Chemical Technicians (NACT) - Offers certification and support for chemical technicians.
Chemistry World - A leading resource for the latest news and developments in the field of chemistry.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides guidelines and resources for safety in the workplace, particularly for handling hazardous materials.
Lab Manager Magazine - Offers insights and resources for laboratory professionals, including chemical technicians.

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