BIOTECHNOLOGY
Chemical Technician
To be a successful Chemical Technician you should...
be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously; have a mechanical aptitude; be creative; have good observation skills; be a problem-solver/self-starter with the ability to think for yourself; work well with your hands, think analytically, and pay attention to detail; be willing to accept responsibility; be committed to finishing a project.
What will my job be like?
Chemical technicians work in every area of the chemical industry, from basic research to hazardous waste management. Research and development technicians work in experimental laboratories, and process control technicians work in manufacturing or other industrial plants. They conduct a variety of laboratory procedures from routine process control to complex research projects. Technicians also work in data management, quality control, and shipping to provide technical support and expertise to these functions.
Where could I work?
Most technicians work indoors, but a few work outdoors taking samples and measurements. Chemical technicians are vital members of self-directed work teams. They sometimes work independently. Most follow the normal 5-day, 40-hour week except when processes or tests must be completed without interruption. Chemical technicians tend to be on the move during the day, with a variety of responsibilities. Chemical technicians usually work under the direction of a chemist, chemical engineer, or laboratory supervisor. They are employed in research, development, process control, production, and sales.
Other workplace settings:
- Hospitals
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Governmental Agencies
- Equipent Manufacturer
Average Annual Salary
$56,750 per year
What is the future of this career?
Employment of chemical technicians is projected to grow 5 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 7,300 openings for chemical technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Type of Education/Training
Chemical technicians receive their education through academic programs at community colleges, colleges, and universities. Some companies hire chemists with a bachelor’s degree as technicians, but in many cases, employers say a 2-year associate degree is acceptable.
Where could I get the education/training?
- Albertus Magnus College
- Sacred Heart University
- Southern Connecticut State University
- University of Saint Joseph
Licensing/Certification
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
More Information
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
6120 Executive Boulevard, Suite 230
Rockville, MD 20852
https://www.asbmb.org
