Chemists

Job opportunities for chemists are expected to grow by 8 percent through 2033, faster than the average for all careers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). There will continue to be good opportunities for chemists who can help the chemical manufacturing industry develop technologies and processes that reduce pollution and improve energy efficiency, monitor pollution levels at manufacturing facilities, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Chemists will also be needed to improve battery technologies, develop nanotechnology for medicinal uses, find ways to remanufacture recycled materials (especially plastics), and develop alternative energy sources. Chemists will also be needed to improve products and processes for new medicines and food safety methods.

Opportunities for chemists in some manufacturing sectors have declined as these companies outsource research and development and manufacturing to foreign countries where chemists earn lower salaries than those who are employed in the United States. However, as the economy improves and the expansion in domestic natural gas production lowers the cost of energy and raw inputs, manufacturers may have less of an incentive than they have in the past to outsource their research and development (R&D) activities.

Aspiring chemists will do well to get advanced degrees—particularly those with a Ph.D.—to maximize their opportunities for employment and advancement.

Those wishing to teach full time at the university or college level should find opportunities but also stiff competition. Many of these institutions are choosing to hire people for adjunct faculty positions (part-time positions without benefits) instead of for full-time, tenure-track positions. Nevertheless, a well-trained chemist should have little trouble finding some type of employment.