Top Jobs for Chemistry Degree Majors

Best Chemistry Careers

You've done the work: analyzed hundreds of samples, mastered the spectrometer and the fluorimeter, and learned the ins and outs of multistep synthesis. So, now that you've earned your hard-won chemistry degree, what's next?

It can be difficult to decide where to go after a degree in chemistry—but not because you have a lack of options to choose from. Chemistry graduates find success in a wide range of careers, both within the chemical sciences and beyond. In part, this is because a growing number of jobs require the technical abilities and scientific knowledge obtained during a bachelor's in chemistry. But, in part, it's because chemistry majors graduate with a broad range of transferrable skills that are valued across industries. They learn to collect and analyze numerical data, communicate their findings clearly, use complex technologies, and manage their time wisely.

Together, these qualities set chemistry majors up for success in a wide range of jobs. Let's take a look at a few of the most popular.

This article will be covering the following careers:

Career	Avg Salary	Satisfaction
Chemist	$89k	3.0/5
Food Science Technologist	$84k	3.0/5
Epidemiologist	$87k	3.4/5
Materials Scientist	$105k	3.2/5
Pharmacy Technician	$38k	2.8/5
Professor	$77k	3.7/5
Natural Sciences Manager	$156k	3.1/5
Technical Writer	$81k	2.8/5
Forensic Science Technician	$67k	3.6/5
High School Teacher	$70k	3.0/5

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1. Chemist

By far the most obvious job on the list, many chemistry students do go on to find work as chemists after their studies. Although some advanced positions require at least a master's degree, individuals with a bachelor's in chemistry are qualified for most associate or entry-level jobs. Many early-career chemists work directly under senior chemists, assisting them by preparing materials, organizing the lab, or reviewing chemical operating procedures.

A chemist studies the composition, structure, properties, and behavior of matter.

2. Food Science Technologist

Have you ever looked at the nutritional information on the back of your cornflakes box and wondered where those numbers came from? Most likely, a food science technologist was responsible. These meticulous professionals perform a wide array of tasks, including the analysis behind food labeling. They also test food quality and safety, develop recipes with recently discovered ingredients, assess shelf-life, and experiment with food modification. Chemistry graduates with an interest in this detail-oriented work should complete a relevant internship to increase their chances of getting hired.

A food science technologist specializes in the practical application of scientific principles within the food industry.

3. Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists play an essential role in the health of society by analyzing the incidence, spread, prevention, and treatment of diseases. These skilled professionals, plan and conduct studies about a wide range of public health issues, collecting and analyzing data from observations, surveys, interviews, and blood samples to understand why diseases occur and how they can be controlled. Although a master's degree is required for most epidemiology positions, chemistry graduates—with their knowledge of biochemistry and their laboratory training—possess the perfect foundation for a promising future in this specialized career.

Epidemiologists are public health scientists who investigate patterns, causes, and effects of diseases and other health-related conditions in specific populations.

4. Materials Scientist

Material scientists use their knowledge of chemistry and physics to create new, custom-made materials such as metals, ceramics, and rubbers. Armed with a thorough understanding of the structure, composition, and processes needed to synthesize and use materials, chemistry students are a natural fit for the profession. Although there are some opportunities for employment at the bachelor's level, most advanced positions require a master's or PhD. The work is challenging, technical, and constantly evolving, but—for many chemistry majors—extremely rewarding.

A materials scientist specializes in the interdisciplinary field of materials science, which involves the study and manipulation of the properties, structure, and applications of different materials.

5. Pharmacy Technician

For chemistry majors who enjoy working with people, a career as a pharmacy technician can be a natural fit. These professionals spend their days interacting with customers: preparing and filling prescriptions, answering questions, and offering information about side effects of various medications. They also perform administrative duties, such as managing the pharmacy inventory. While there is no set standard for how to become a pharmacy technician, completing a bachelor's of chemistry isn't a bad place to start. A pharmaceutical internship doesn't hurt either.

A pharmacy technician works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to support the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy.

6. Professor

Some chemistry undergrads complete their degree only to realize they'd love nothing more than to stay in school. As chemistry professors, they can make that dream a reality. Professional academics spend their days engaged in a mix of research, instruction, and community service. They teach chemistry courses, perform chemical studies, publish in academic journals, and supervise and support graduate students who are conducting basic or applied research projects.

A professor holds a high-ranking position within an educational institution, typically at the college or university level.

7. Natural Sciences Manager

Natural science managers are the backbone of many of the world's most innovative research projects. A supervisory role, natural science managers work closely with scientists and other professionals engaged in life sciences research to ensure the efficiency and quality of their work. They keep the research team in check, ensure all deadlines are met, and hire and train new staff when needed. Chemistry students with a knack for collaboration, organization, and leadership will thrive in this fascinating and important position.

A natural sciences manager is responsible for overseeing the scientific activities of a research and development team or department.

8. Technical Writer

For chemistry majors who are ready to leave the lab behind, a career as a technical writer can be an ideal fit. In this role, they can apply their knowledge of chemistry and the communication skills they developed during their degree to help others understand the intricacies of the field. Whether they are working on chemistry textbooks or pamphlets about immunology, they translate technical information into clear, engaging, accessible texts.

A technical writer specializes in creating clear and concise documentation to explain complex technical information.

9. Forensic Science Technician

Forensic science technicians are in high demand, as employment opportunities in this field are growing faster average. These skilled professionals work with crime investigation teams to help uncover information and clues. To do so, they gather, organize, analyze, and document physical evidence from the scene of the crime. Many work in labs, where they run tests on artifacts such as hair, fingerprints, and discarded weapons. Exciting and important work, this career path provides an unconventional way for chemistry majors to put their scientific training to use.

A forensic science technician, also known as a crime scene investigator (CSI), plays a vital role in collecting, analyzing, and preserving physical evidence from crime scenes.

10. High School Teacher

You know what they say: "If you can't do, teach." Individuals who love the subject of chemistry but aren't interested in practicing it themselves will excel as high school teachers. In this highly social role, they'll help others discover the wonders of chemical reactions, molecular structures, scientific theory, and more. A bachelor's in chemistry is the first step to entering the career. Professional teaching experience and, in some cases, formal training in education are also required.

A high school teacher is responsible for instructing and guiding students in grades 9 through 12.