Chemists & Chemical Technologists/Technicians

Learn about this occupation – including typical duties, education required, salary and job outlook information, job boards and more.

Chemists conduct research and analysis in support of industrial operations, product and process development, quality control, environmental control, medical diagnosis and treatment, biotechnology, nanotechnology and other applications. They also conduct theoretical, experimental and applied research into basic chemical and biochemical processes to create or synthesize new products and processes.

Chemical technologists and technicians provide technical support and services or may work independently in chemical engineering, chemical and biochemical research and analysis, industrial chemistry, chemical quality control and environmental protection.

These professionals are employed by research and development and quality control laboratories, consulting engineering companies, in chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and a variety of other manufacturing and processing industries, and by utilities, health, educational and government establishments.   

(National Occupational Classification)

Occupational profile

Find detailed information about the occupation, including typical duties and working conditions, in the links below:

Education

Chemical technicians and technologists usually require completion of a one, two or three-year college program in chemical, biochemical or chemical engineering technology or a closely related discipline. Some chemical technologists and technicians working in support of fundamental research in chemistry or biochemistry are university graduates. Certification in chemical engineering technology or in a related field is available through provincial associations of engineering/applied science technologists and technicians and may be required by employers. (National Occupation Classification)

Employment as a Chemist requires a minimum bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a related discipline. A master's or doctoral degree is usually required for employment as a research chemist (National Occupation Classification).

U of M Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar & Catalogue outlines program admission and course requirements. Use the left menu to navigate to a specific faculty and program. To determine which degree path suits your unique occupational goals, speak with a Career Consultant. For support with course registration and academic issues, speak with an Academic Advisor.

Faculty and Department Homepages
Visit the faculty and department homepage to learn about program application deadlines and processes, as well as additional in-house resources and opportunities.

Exploring Other Education Options

Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials - information for foreign-trained chemists and other related scientists

Labour market information

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Resources

Professional Associations
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Directories, Industry Associations, and Sector Councils
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Job Boards
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Other links

External resources that will provide you with additional information about the occupation, areas of work and opportunities to build experience:

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Last updated: June 6, 2022