Careers in Chemistry
What do the people on these pages have in common? They all use chemistry on the job. From toxicologists to firefighters, there are many exciting chemistry careers to choose from.


For: Career links

Firefighter
Firefighters are highly trained professionals who respond to fires, hazardous chemical spills, and medical emergencies. When responding to a fire or spill, firefighters have to know what effects different chemicals have in different situations.
Educational requirements: High-school diploma
Food Science Technician
Food science technicians help to ensure that the food you eat is healthful, safe, and flavorful. They use their knowledge of chemistry to develop new or better ways of preserving, processing, packaging, and storing foods. Some food service technicians analyze food content to determine levels of vitamins, fat, carbohydrates, or protein.
Educational requirements: Four-year college degree, majoring in chemistry
Forensic Chemist
Forensic chemists help law enforcement officials solve crimes. At a crime scene, a forensic chemist carefully gathers all the physical evidence and brings it back to the laboratory for analysis and identification. Physical evidence may include fibers, paints, glass, and stains.
Educational requirements: Master's degree in chemistry
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Nuclear medicine technologists apply their knowledge of nuclear chemistry to help diagnose diseases and disorders. They prepare and administer radioactive substances and use radiation detection devices to trace these substances in the body. Nuclear medicine technologists work directly with patients and closely with nuclear medicine physicians.
Educational requirements: Two-year community or junior college degree, or a one-year certificate in nuclear medicine technology
Pharmacist
A pharmacist dispenses drugs prescribed by physicians and dentists and gives information to patients about the drugs and their uses. Pharmacists understand the uses, effects, and composition of drugs, including their chemical properties and biological side effects.
Educational requirements: Two years of college, four-year college of pharmacy program, internship, and passage of a state board examination
Toxicologist
Toxicologists determine the effects natural and synthetic chemicals may have on people, other organisms, and the environment. Toxicologists conduct experiments to find out whether certain chemicals are dangerous or safe to use. They also determine how much of a given chemical could be harmful.
Educational requirements: Four-year bachelor of science degree, majoring in chemistry
 
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