3 Things You Need to Know About Chemistry Jobs
When you search for chemistry jobs, it is important to know what to expect. Otherwise, you could be sorely disappointed or go into a job with unrealistic expectations. When searching for chemistry jobs, most people focus on several key attributes including: Earnings, Job Outlook, and Advancement. By understanding all of these attributes, finding chemistry jobs that will fit your expectations will be much easier.
1. Earnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wages of a chemist is $66,230. If you are on the lower end, you could earn less than $40,000 and if you are on the highest end, you could earn more than $115,000. These figures vary widely, based upon what industry you are working in. The Federal Executive Branch holds the highest median income at more than $95,000 which is followed by working for scientific research and development services which posts a median of $76,450. The lowest paying industries are engineering and architectural related services at $51,180 and basic chemical manufacturing which has a median income of $63,630. If you are just leaving college, then the average beginning offer is just under $40,000.
As you can see, the sector and industry that you work in, will have a huge impact on what you will make.
2. Job Outlook
Some people think that being aware of the job outlook is only for people who are searching for chemistry jobs for the first time. However, this information is important for a variety of reasons. First, it is important if you are thinking about changing careers or even switching companies. Second, it is important to know because it can give you leverage when negotiating a new contract.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that between 2008 and 2018, there will only be minimal growth for chemists and material scientists. They will see an increase of less than 3%, which is just over 3,000 new jobs. If you look only a chemists, the employment opportunities are estimated to only increase 2% (2,100 jobs) between 2008 and 2018. From this data, it should evident that the growth in chemistry jobs will be minimal over the next decade. That means that if you are planning on changing jobs, it is a good idea to have a new job lined up before leaving your current position.
3. Advancement
For chemists, advancement is often seen in a different way than in other professions. An advancement does not always come with a new title, but rather an increase in budget and greater independence within the work environment. Another option is to move to management level positions.
When it comes to chemistry jobs, several important facts seem evident. The first is that your rate of pay will vary greatly based upon the sector that you choose to work in. Second, there is a small but stable growth in the job arena, which means that it may not be easy to simply switch jobs. Finally, advancing within a company does always come with a new title, but rather more independence and a bigger budget.