Chemical Technicians
Chemical technicians conduct laboratory tests on solids, liquids, and gases to support scientists in analyzing materials and developing new products or processes. They work in research facilities, manufacturing plants, quality control departments, and environmental laboratories, performing hands-on testing and recording results that guide product development and ensure standards compliance.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against chemical technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A chemical technician's week typically involves preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, and running standardized tests on materials. Tasks include mixing compounds, measuring chemical reactions, recording data, and maintaining lab equipment and safety protocols. Technicians may spend time documenting results, troubleshooting equipment issues, and communicating findings to supervising scientists or quality assurance teams.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you enjoy investigative problem-solving and hands-on lab work with tangible materials. You're detail-oriented, comfortable following precise procedures, and interested in how chemical processes work in real-world applications like manufacturing or environmental monitoring.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $69,560 | $85,850 | $102,810 | 960 |
| Alaska | $56,680 | $79,380 | $86,470 | 100 |
| Delaware | $65,060 | $78,620 | $82,350 | 540 |
| South Carolina | $55,410 | $75,020 | $75,900 | 2,080 |
| Missouri | $52,540 | $68,550 | $84,400 | 720 |
| Massachusetts | $59,010 | $67,570 | $81,880 | 1,780 |
| Arizona | $54,480 | $65,860 | $82,300 | 390 |
| Vermont | $54,440 | $65,560 | $86,430 | 150 |
| Hawaii | $55,570 | $63,910 | $80,810 | 40 |
| Colorado | $51,210 | $63,770 | $80,640 | 1,180 |
| Nebraska | $53,890 | $62,640 | $65,090 | 280 |
| Texas | $49,580 | $62,580 | $85,910 | 6,090 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician - Level 1 — American Concrete Institute International
- Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician - Level 2 — American Concrete Institute International
- Masonry Laboratory Testing Technician — American Concrete Institute International
- Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade I (CFTT) — American Concrete Institute International
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against chemical technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.