
Chemists
Also called: Analytical Chemist, Chemist, Forensic Scientist, Research Chemist
In the Navy:
Chemist; Weapons Technical Officer
What they do:
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
On the job, you would:
- Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.
- Conduct quality control tests.
- Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed.
Knowledge
Math and Science
- chemistry
- arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
- manufacture and distribution of products
Engineering and Technology
- computers and electronics
- product and service development
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Skills
Basic Skills
- using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems
- reading work related information
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
- measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
- figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Abilities
Verbal
- listen and understand what people say
- read and understand what is written
Math
- choose the right type of math to solve a problem
- add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Ideas and Logic
- make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
- use rules to solve problems
Hand and Finger Use
- put together small parts with your fingers
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Attention to Detail
- Analytical Thinking
- Integrity
- Dependability
- Adaptability/Flexibility
- Cooperation
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Data base user interface and query software
Presentation software
Analytical or scientific software
- Minitab
- Waters Empower Chromatography Data Software
Education
Job Outlook
Explore More
- Biochemists & Biophysicists
- Bioengineers & Biomedical Engineers
- Chemical Engineers
- Materials Engineers
- Medical & Clinical Laboratory Technologists
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