Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Chemist is a scientist who studies the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, especially of atomic and molecular systems. They apply their knowledge to develop new products, processes, or materials and to understand and control chemical reactions.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 6.2% (above average)
Annual job openings: 6,300
Direct AI exposure: 28% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 52% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $91K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $58K per year | $70K per year | $91K per year | $126K per year | $161K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $40K above the national average. | ||||
Chemists typically work in laboratories, where they conduct experiments and analyze substances. They may also work in offices when doing theoretical work or writing reports. Their work settings can vary from research institutions and government agencies to industries like pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and environmental services.
Chemistry is often known as the central science because it bridges other natural sciences, including physics, geology, and biology. Chemists use their expertise to solve problems in many areas of science and technology, developing products and processes that improve our lives. Their work can lead to advancements in medicine, energy, food, and materials, among others.
In their day-to-day work, chemists perform experiments to understand the properties of different substances and how they react with one another. This requires a strong foundation in science, meticulous attention to detail, and excellent analytical skills. They must also be adept at using various scientific instruments and techniques for analysis and synthesis.
The career of a chemist is characterized by lifelong learning and adaptation. The field of chemistry is continuously evolving, with new discoveries and technological advancements regularly emerging. Therefore, chemists must stay updated with the latest scientific literature and developments in their field.
A bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field is the minimum requirement, typically taking 4 years. For research positions, a master's or Ph.D. in chemistry or a related discipline is often required, which can take an additional 2-6 years.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
