With all of the potential careers with a chemistry degree, it can be tricky to narrow down your options. As you consider various careers, think about your strengths and personal characteristics. You might determine, for example, that a career as a natural sciences manager, food science technician or forensic science technician interests you. Keep in mind that some of the following career options may have job requirements beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Natural sciences managers may work in areas such as agriculture, food and natural resources. They are responsible for planning, directing and coordinating research, development or production activities. They may be charged with any of the following tasks:
- Testing for the purposes of quality control
- Hiring, training and supervising staff members
- Establishing goals, strategies and budgets for their department
- Ensuring that the labs are properly stocked and equipped
- Liaising with management and clients about project proposals and research findings
Chemists are responsible for analyzing the chemical properties of various substances with the intent of developing new knowledge in the field or new products. They work in a lab, preparing samples, conducting tests and analyzing the results. Some of their tasks can include:
- Planning and implementing research projects
- Supervising lab technicians
- Conducting tests to ensure quality and safety standards are met
- Developing reports that explain their findings
Food science technicians assist food scientists with their research and testing requirements when working on food and beverage products. They may investigate new processing techniques or inspect various chemicals, foods and additives to ascertain safety and quality. Some of their typical tasks include:
- Collect, prepare and store samples of foodstuffs and beverages
- Test food samples, additives and food containers
- Analyze chemical properties of foods
- Maintain the laboratory environment
- Prepare reports detailing findings
Chemical technicians work in labs in a support role for scientists. They are responsible for setting up, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, as well as monitoring chemical processes. Other tasks can include:
- Prepare chemical solutions
- Test product quality
- Conduct tests and interpret the results
- Prepare reports explaining findings
If you’re interested in career opportunities in chemistry that intersect with the law, you might consider pursuing a job as a forensic science technician. Forensic science technicians play a support role in criminal investigations. They may work at crime scenes, where they analyze the scene, take photographs, make sketches and take samples. They may also work in labs, performing tests on samples taken from crime scenes and analyzing the results.
Chemistry careers extend to the education field. As a chemistry teacher, you would teach chemistry classes in universities or high schools. It is important to note that in order to be a K12 chemistry teacher, you will need to pursue a program that leads to initial teacher licensure. Some of your responsibilities may include the following:
- Developing class curriculum, lessons and assignments
- Giving lectures and facilitating classroom discussion
- Grading essays and other assignments
- Working with students one-on-one during office hours
- Attending departmental meetings
Environmental engineers apply engineering principles toward solving environmental problems, which can include site remediation, pollution control and waste treatment. They may design systems or processes that protect the environment and also promote human health. Some of their tasks can include:
- Inspecting industrial and municipal facilities to check for compliance
- Providing support for environmental remediation projects
- Advising companies and other organizations about the environmental impact of projects
- Monitoring environmental improvement programs
Some career opportunities in chemistry involve occupational health and safety. Health and safety engineers, aside from those who work on mine inspections, are responsible for promoting worksite or product safety for a range of workplaces. They ensure that workplaces are in compliance with regulations and that industrial processes do not jeopardize safety. Some tasks can include:
- Reviewing plans for new equipment and machinery
- Inspecting facilities, machinery and safety equipment
- Overseeing the installation of safety devices
- Investigating industrial accidents
