How to Become a Chemist
Run the analyses and experiments behind new products, quality control, and scientific discovery. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $91,240 per year and faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$91,240/yr
Job growth
5%
Openings / yr
6,300
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Laboratory Technique
- Analytical Chemistry
- Science
- Critical Thinking
- Technical Writing
Helpful certifications
- ACS-approved degree program
- Lab safety certifications
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Related careers
- Physicist$172,250 median
- Natural Sciences Manager$167,220 median
- Biochemist$127,410 median
- Biostatistician$105,650 median
- Statistician$105,650 median
- Biomedical Scientist / Researcher$103,410 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Chemist make?
The median pay for a Chemist is $91,240 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Chemist?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Chemical Engineering.
Is Chemist a growing field?
The BLS projects faster than average demand for this role, about 5% over the decade, with roughly 6,300 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Chemist use most?
Common skills for this role are Laboratory Technique, Analytical Chemistry, Science, Critical Thinking, and Technical Writing.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.