What does a Chemical Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A chemical technician is someone who works with chemicals and helps to prepare them for use. They may also work with other scientists in order to test the effects of certain chemicals.
Chemical Technician job duties include:
- Prepare and set up equipment for experiments
- Perform experiments and tests according to protocols
- Record data and observations during experiments
- Clean and maintain lab equipment
- Prepare solutions and reagents for experiments
- Calibrate lab equipment
- Perform quality control checks on lab equipment and supplies
- Train new chemical technicians on proper experiment procedures
- Assist chemists in research projects
Chemical Technician Job Requirements
A chemical technician is someone who works with chemicals and helps to prepare them for use. They may also be responsible for cleaning up after experiments and helping to maintain lab equipment. A high school diploma is typically the minimum education requirement for this position, although some employers may prefer or require an associate's degree in chemistry or a related field. Certification from the American Chemical Society (ACS) is also often preferred or required. Experience working in a laboratory is also helpful, as it can give technicians a better understanding of how to handle chemicals and how to work with lab equipment.
Chemical Technician Skills
- Analytical skills
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Computer skills
- Creativity
- Critical thinking
- Data analysis
- Experimental design
- Instrumentation
- Laboratory techniques
- Organizational skills
- Problem solving
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How to become a Chemical Technician
A chemical technician is someone who works with chemicals and helps to develop new products or processes. They may work in a laboratory, manufacturing plant, or research and development facility. To become a chemical technician, you will need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many jobs will require postsecondary education, and some may require a bachelor’s degree.
If you are interested in working with chemicals, you should take courses in chemistry and math. You should also consider getting experience through an internship or cooperative education program. Many employers also prefer to hire candidates who have certification from the American Chemical Society.
Once you have the necessary education and experience, you can start applying for jobs as a chemical technician. You may need to take a written exam and/or an oral interview as part of the application process. Once you are hired, you will likely receive on-the-job training to learn about the specific products or processes you will be working on. With experience, you may be able to advance to a supervisory or managerial position.
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