Chemical Technicians


Overview

Chemical Technicians

Introduction

Chemical technicians assist chemists and chemical engineers in the research, development, testing, and manufacturing of chemicals and chemical-based products. Their work involves experimental, theoretical, and practical application of chemistry and other connected physical and natural sciences. Chemical technicians conduct chemical and physical laboratory tests to assist scientists in producing qualitative and quantitative analyses of solids, liquids, and gaseous materials for, among other purposes, research and development of new p...

Quick Facts


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Median Salary

$56,750

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Employment Prospects

Fair

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Minimum Education Level

Some Postsecondary Training|Associates Degree


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Experience

Internships or co-ops


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Skills

Math|Mechanical/Manual Dexterity|Scientific


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Personality Traits

Conventional|Hands On|Technical

Earnings

Earnings for chemical technicians vary based on their education, experience, employer, and location. The U.S. Department of Labor reports the median wage for chemical technicians as $27.29 per hour, or $56,750 annually, in May 2023. The highest paid 10 percent earned $44.88 per hour (or $93,340 annually) or more. The lowest paid 10 percent earned $18.39 per hour ($38,240 annually). Salaries ten...

Work Environment

The chemical industry is one of the safest industries in which to work. Laboratories and plants normally have safety committees and safety engineers who closely monitor equipment and practices to minimize hazards. Chemical technicians usually receive safety training both in school and at work to recognize potential hazards and to take appropriate measures.

Most chemical laboratories are ...

Outlook

Job opportunities for chemical technicians are expected to about as fast as the average for all careers through 2032, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The American Chemistry Council foresees positive prospects for the U.S. chemistry industry in the coming years, with a resurgence in chemicals manufacturing, due to initiatives for clean energy, infrastructure, and a strong domestic man...