Chemical Technician

To be a successful Chemical Technician you should…

• be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• have a have 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

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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
• Equipment Manufacturers

What is the average annual salary?

$52,100

What is the future of this career?

Employment of chemical technicians is projected to grow 4 percent from 2016 to 2026, slower than the average for all occupations. Graduates of applied science technology programs who are trained to use equipment typically found in laboratories or production facilities should have the best opportunities.

Declines in the employment of chemical technicians are projected in all chemical manufacturing industries, including pharmaceutical manufacturing. Many chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturers are expected to outsource their scientific R&D and testing operations to professional, scientific, and technical services firms that specialize in these services. However, due to the development of cheaper energy and raw materials sources such as shale gas, some chemical manufacturing is expected to return to the United States. This should generate more demand for these workers in the next decade.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

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 can I get the education and/or training?

• Albertus Magnus College, New Haven
• Sacred Heart University, Fairfield
• Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven
• University of St Joseph, West Hartford

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.

Where can I get more information?

American Chemical Society
1155 Sixteenth Street, NW
Washington, DC   20036
800-333-9511
www.acs.org