Chemists
O*NET 19-2031.00 · SOC 19-2031
Chemist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $91k a year with +6.4% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 5,900 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Conduct chemical tests and analyses on substances and compounds
- →Synthesize new chemical compounds in a laboratory setting
- →Develop and refine chemical processes for industrial production
- →Document experimental procedures and results in laboratory notebooks
- →Ensure laboratory safety and proper handling of hazardous chemicals
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Chemist roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Chemist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Chemist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Chemist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Chemists is projected to grow 6.4% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·30% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Chemist make?
The median Chemist earns $91k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Chemist jobs?
Our model puts Chemist at 42 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 30% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Chemist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 6.4% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 5,900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Chemist?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Chemist roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Chemist?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Chemist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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