Chemists
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
Median pay: $91,240/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +4.9% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 6,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• 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.
• Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed.
• Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests.
• Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions.
What's the median pay for Chemists?
The median pay for Chemists is $91,240 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Chemists?
Employment for Chemists is projected to change +4.9% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Chemists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Chemists?
About 6,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.