A chemist analyzes chemical compounds and reactions to develop new materials, products, and processes. The work is research-driven, problem-focused, and requires a bachelor's degree. Here is what chemists do, what skills matter most, and how to enter the field.
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Chemists conduct experiments and analyze data to understand how substances interact and change. You document findings, identify patterns in test results, and use that information to solve problems or create new compounds. The work spans research labs, manufacturing facilities, and quality control settings. You stay current with new methods and technologies, communicate results clearly to colleagues, and often work on teams to develop everything from pharmaceuticals to materials science innovations. Your days involve hands-on lab work, data analysis, and decision-making based on evidence.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Chemists earn a median of $91,240 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations, with about 6,300 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You need a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field. During your studies, you will build knowledge in chemistry, mathematics, and computer systems, along with lab skills and scientific reasoning. Job Zone 4 preparation means considerable training and experience are expected. Many chemists pursue internships or research positions during their degree to gain practical lab experience. After graduation, you may start as an entry-level chemist and advance as you develop expertise. Some chemists later pursue graduate degrees to specialize or move into research leadership roles.
Most chemists enter through a bachelor's degree program, though some pursue graduate study for specialized research roles. The path depends on your career goals and timeline, so if you are exploring options, Pathly can map the chemist path that fits you and turn it into a step-by-step plan with your counselor.
Many chemists must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are drawn to investigative work that relies on curiosity, logic, and evidence. You enjoy analyzing complex information, thinking critically about problems, and discovering how things work at a molecular level.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).