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Career Details : Chemists

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Description

Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or chemical experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.

Experience

A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Tasks

  • Analyzes organic and inorganic compounds to determine chemical and physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, and reactions, utilizing chromatography, spectroscopy, and spectrophotometry techniques.
  • Develops, improves, and customizes products, equipment, formulas, processes, and analytical methods.
  • Studies effects of various methods of processing, preserving, and packaging on composition and properties of foods.
  • Confers with scientists and engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop nonstandard tests.
  • Prepares test solutions, compounds, and reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct test.
  • Directs, coordinates, and advises personnel in test procedures for analyzing components and physical properties of materials.
  • Writes technical papers and reports and prepares standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, and tests.
  • Compiles and analyzes test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency and to diagnose malfunctions.
  • Induces changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, and chemical catalysts for quantitative and qualitative analysis.

    Related Careers

    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

    Important Skills

    Frequent Work Context

    • Consequence of Error
    • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
    • Job-Required Social Interaction
    • Objective or Subjective Information
    • Coordinate or Lead Others

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