Chemists

The work

Core tasks

1. 01Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods.
2. 02Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.
3. 03Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.
4. 04Conduct quality control tests.
5. 05Write technical papers or reports or prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests.
6. 06Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed.
7. 07Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests.
8. 08Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions.
9. 09Confer with scientists or engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop nonstandard tests.
10. 10Evaluate laboratory safety procedures to ensure compliance with standards or to make improvements as needed.
11. 11Direct, coordinate, or advise personnel in test procedures for analyzing components or physical properties of materials.
12. 12Purchase laboratory supplies, such as chemicals, when supplies are low or near their expiration date.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading