Research and Development Chemist
Quick Facts
Median Salary$81,399
Most Common EducationBachelor's degree
Projected 10-Year Growth+12.31%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment
What They Do
A Research and Development Chemist studies chemical compounds and uses research to support the development of products, including manufactured products, or processes, including industrial processes.
Core Tasks:
- Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods.
- Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.
- Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.
- Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed.
- Conduct quality control tests.
- Write technical papers or reports or prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests.
- Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests.
- Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions.
- Confer with scientists or engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop nonstandard tests.
- Evaluate laboratory safety procedures to ensure compliance with standards or to make improvements as needed.
- Direct, coordinate, or advise personnel in test procedures for analyzing components or physical properties of materials.
- Purchase laboratory supplies, such as chemicals, when supplies are low or near their expiration date.
What to expect as a Research and Development Chemist
1Earn a Bachelor's degree
72% of people achieve this level of education.
2Gain skills and experience
See Research and Development Chemist related courses on Tallo
3Land a job
298 openings for Research and Development Chemists
Career Progression
in United States (Nation)
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