How much does a chemist make?

In the United States, chemists with more experience or advanced education may earn more. Pay also differs by location and employer industry—government, research, chemical manufacturing, and testing labs have different pay patterns.

Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge. Excludes “Biochemists and Biophysicists” (19-1021) and “Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers” (19-2042).

What's a typical day like?

A chemist may measure and mix solutions, then use lab instruments to test a sample and check its safety or quality. They record and analyze results, write reports, and share findings with teammates.

In the U.S., most chemists earn a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related science after high school, often starting work in their early 20s; lab internships help. Research jobs may require a master's or Ph.D.

Usually a bachelor's degree (preparation level 4 of 5)

Good for people who like figuring things out and building and doing.

Forensic chemists often don't know what a sample is before testing it—they must figure it out in the lab.