21st Century Jobs for Chemistry Majors

There are plenty of job opportunities for college students who are Chemistry majors. Education experts has put the word out that America is behind other countries in producing graduates in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) areas. In response, the President and industry groups have called on colleges to graduate 10,000 more engineers a year and 100,000 new teachers with majors in STEM - science, technology, engineering and math.for Chemistry majors. For Chemistry majors, some of these jobs have a really bright outlook for the 21^st century. College students interested in the sciences, particularly in being a Chemistry major, should consider these occupations.

Biochemical Engineers solve problems related to materials and research and develop usable, tangible products, using knowledge of biology, chemistry, or engineering. Considerable preparation is needed for this industry. In 2010, seventy one percent of these professionals had at least a bachelors degree. Median hourly wage in 2010 was $43.40.

Chemical Engineers will continue to be in demand. These engineers design chemical plant equipment, conceive processes for manufacturing chemicals and products, like gasoline, synthetic rubber, plastics, paper, and pulp. Median hourly wage in 2010 was $43.42.

Chemical Technicians assist scientists in analyzing solids, liquids, and gaseous materials in the research and development of new products or processes. Although, this job does not require a bachelors degree, 50 percent of chemical technicians have some college credits or an associate's degree. Median hourly wage in 2010 was $20.21.

Soil and Plant Scientists conduct research related to the breeding, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock. Their research is about control of pests and they study the composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop growth. All professionals in this occupation are expected to have at least a bachelors degree. Median hourly wage in 2010 was $27.57.

Chemists conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories or develop new products or knowledge. Seventy six percent of Chemists have a bachelor's degree. Median hourly wage for chemists in 2010 was $32.85.

Materials Scientists conduct research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials such as metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. 85% of these professionals held Masters degrees in 2010 and had a median hourly wage of $40.73.

Post Secondary Chemistry Teachers earned a median income of $70, 520 in 2010. This is one of the professions where growth is expected to be faster than average, growing 14% to 19% every year until 2018. Significant training is required for Masters and Doctoral degrees.

Nuclear Monitoring Technicians collect and test samples in order to monitor results of nuclear experiments and study contamination and impact on humans, facilities, and environment. 48% of these technicians have an associates or bachelors degree. Median hourly wage in 2010 was $32.73.

Architectural and Engineering Managers plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or conduct research and development in these fields. Extensive skills and knowledge are required for professionals in these occupations and a graduate degree will be necessary. Median hourly wage in 2010 was $57.34.

Source: Why Science Majors Change their Minds. (It's just so darn hard)