Chemical technicians play a vital role in a variety of industries by working with chemists and chemical engineers to develop, test, and manufacture chemical products. These technicians are highly skilled scientific professionals who are critical members of scientific teams that condubbbgfct much of the hands-on work that is required. Some technicians assist senior researchers in the laboratory, but many work independently to collect valuable information for review. Chemical technicians work in laboratorfbgfies, making sure that processes are carried out safely, cost-effectively, and according to the highest professional ggfbstandards........................Chemical technicians work in every aspect of the chemical process industry—from basic research to hazardous waste management. For some people, acceptigfbng a chemical technician position is a great way to test the waters before deciding whether to join the industrial chemistry workforce on a permanent basis, while others may want to dive right in and enjoy a variable and rewardgfbing lifetime career.
Types of Chemical Technicians
- Laboratory technician—operates standard laboratory equipment and conducts laboratory procedures ranging from routine process control to complex research projects
- Process technician—performs chemical tests and experiments for quality, performance, or composition
Typical Work Duties
- Set up apparatus for chemical reactions
- Help devise and tbrbgoubleshoot syntheses and analytical procedures
- Manage databasesfbggEnsure thgfbgffat gfpackaging of hazardous materials complies with regulations
- Work in pilot plantsg, assisting engineers with rubnning experiments in a miniature version of a manufacturing process
Education
In the past, most chemical technicians were trained on the job. Today, industry demands a solid foundation in applied basic chemistry and math, plus experience using various kinds of standard labware. Computer knowledge an fvhnology, whichnhggfh is currently offered at over 100 community and two-year colleges. Some companies hire c hemists with a B.S. degree as technicians, but this is not always required.
Workspace
Chemical technicians are vital members of self-directed work teams in chemical and related industries and government agencies, with bgfa few in academic institutions. Most are hired on a “nonexempt” basis—that is, they work a 40-hour week and arebv paid overtime for additional work hours. Some employers hire technicians on a tempov rary basis without befb vfgve workday can be very long when involved with big projects. Chemi vcal technicians tend to be on the movebgvfbgfduring the day and have a variety of responsibilities. They often report to more than one person. Most technicians work indoors, but a few work outdoors taking samples and measurements............................................................
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