ANZSCO Work Type Detail Sheets

1,256 sheets 774 with career data
← Back to search

Chemist

234211 · Light
Career data Verified

Chemists study and do laboratory experiments with chemicals. They also develop new and improved chemical products and test the quality of manufactured goods.

Most common salary $66k – $108k
Upper salary up to $141k
Training 3-5 years
View on Tahatū ↗ Data: Tahatū Career Navigator, CC BY 4.0
Related careers
Biochemist ↗

Biochemists study the chemical structure and function of animals, plants and micro-organisms like bacteria and viruses. They use this research to develop medical, industrial and agricultural products.

$74k – $129k
Materials scientist ↗

Materials scientists study the structural and chemical properties of materials to develop new or improved products.

$76k – $119k
Data: Tahatū Career Navigator, CC BY 4.0

Description

Studies the chemical and physical properties of substances, and develops and monitors chemical processes and production.

Typical work tasks

  • Conducts experiments and tests to identify the chemical composition and reactive properties of natural substances and processed materials; analyses and conducts research to develop theories, techniques and processes, and tests the reliability of outcomes under different conditions; develops practical applications of experimental and research findings.

Typical work environment

  • Works indoors in offices and laboratories.
  • Work outdoors is unlikely to be required.
  • Work in adequately heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained workspaces.
  • May work with a range of hazardous chemical or other substances that may be explosive or give off harmful gases or emissions, protective clothing therefore may be required.

Typical physical and mental demands

  • Light physical demand. Frequently sits stands and walks in office and laboratory area.
  • Occasional lifting, carrying or pulling may be required to move or assemble research equipment and materials this is unlikely to exceed light physical demand.
  • Bending, squatting or crouching is not a significant component of the job.
  • Occasional stretching may be required when adjusting equipment.
  • Twisting, climbing is not a significant component of the job.
  • Frequent contact with skin irritants and/or water or chemicals is likely, however protective clothing can be utilised.
  • Occasional to frequent repetitive hand and finger movements are required when using hand tools including laboratory and measuring equipment, writing and drawing instruments, calculators and computers.
  • Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with technical, chemical handling, computing, report writing, communication, interpersonal, planning, organisational, problem solving, critical thinking and decision-making capabilities.
Entry signal Reviewed

Requires a substantial formal qualification.

Entry barrier Formal qualification
Licence / registration No licence required
ANZSCO skill level 1
Next-day ready No

How this was determined (model-generated): Tertiary qual or 5yrs experience; chemistry degree-level, no licence.

Entry Requirements

  • A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

Further Comments

  • There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.