What Chemical Technicians Do
Chemical technicians assist chemists and chemical engineers in testing and developing chemical products. Specifically, they help set up laboratory equipment and prepare chemical solutions. After the tests are conducted, they analyze the results and create graphs and presentations.
In terms of their work environment, chemical technicians can work in a variety of places. The majority of them work in testing laboratories, but they can also work at pharmaceutical and manufacturing companies, wholesale trade companies, and colleges.
How to Become a Chemical Technician
To become a chemical technician, an associate's degree in applied science or chemical technology is needed. This degree can be obtained at many technical or community colleges. Some of the required classes are math, physics, biology, and chemistry. Another important aspect of becoming a chemical technician is laboratory work and on-the-job training. This will allow you to work with the equipment and chemicals hands-on which is beneficial experience.
Not only is it important to receive an associate's degree and on-the-job training, but it is also helpful to have a variety of other skills. Some of these skills include analytical skills, critical-thinking skills, and observation skills.
Pay and Job Outlook for Chemical Technicians
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for chemical technicians is $49,260. It is also stated that the lower end is $31,110, and the higher end of earnings is $80,350.
In terms of job outlook, the percent of chemical technicians employed is predicted to grow three percent in the next ten years. The demand for chemical technicians is growing because more of them are needed to test new products developed by chemists and chemical engineers. Another area of demand is in environmental issues and sustainability. Overall, the projected number of chemical technicians employed in 2029 is 70,000.
Sources
Information from:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Chemical Technicians,
on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/chemical-technicians.htm (visited September 02, 2020).
Picture from:
ASVAB Career Exploration Program. (n.d.). Retrieved September 06, 2020, from https://www.asvabprogram.com/occufind-occupation-details/19-4031.00