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Alabama Department of Labor

Labor Market Information Division
SOC: 19-2031 Chemists
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or chemical experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge. Exclude "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers" (19-2042) and "Biochemists and Biophysicists" (19-1021).
Default
Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
OJT: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Tasks: 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. Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests. Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis. Evaluate laboratory safety procedures to ensure compliance with standards or to make improvements as needed. Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions. Write technical papers or reports or prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests. Confer with scientists or engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop nonstandard tests. Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods. 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.
License: License not required.
Outlook: Satisfactory
Alabama Employment Outlook
Alabama Wage Data
Hourly Wage   Annual Wage
Entry $22.86   Entry $47,558.00
Mean $38.13   Mean $79,301.00
Experience $45.76 Experience $95,167.00

The data is based on the May 2017 Occupation Employment Survey employment and wage estimate file. The wages have been aged using the most current ECI factors reflecting wages as of June 2018.

Alabama Projections
Estimated Employment 2016Projected Employment 2026Annual Average OpeningsAnnual Growth Rate
68067060-.14
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Occupational Videos
19-2031.00 Chemists