Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or chemical experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
Significant Points
- A bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related discipline is the minimum educational requirement; however, many research jobs require a master's degree, or more often a Ph.D.
- Slower-than-average growth in employment is projected.
- Job growth will be concentrated in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing companies and in professional, scientific, and technical services firms.
- Graduates with a bachelor's degree will have opportunities at smaller research organizations; those with a master's degree, and particularly those with a Ph.D., will enjoy better opportunities at larger pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms.
National Outlook
| 2004 Total Employment | 82,000 |
| 2014 Expected Employment | 88,000 |
| Change (Percent) | 5,000 ( 7.3) |
| Total Openings | 32,000 |