Chemist
Research, develop and analyse chemicals and materials - in pharma, energy, food or manufacturing.
This UK chemist career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £24,000 - £32,000
- Mid-career salary
- £35,000 - £55,000
- Senior salary
- £60,000 - £95,000+
- Work environment
- Lab and office, regulated industries
- Time to entry
- 3 - 5 Years
- Degree required
- Yes (chemistry degree, often with MSc/PhD)
- Category
- Education, Science and Research
What a Chemist does
Research, develop and analyse chemicals and materials - in pharma, energy, food or manufacturing.
- Analytical Chemist - Test composition and quality of materials and products.
- Medicinal Chemist - Design and synthesise new drug molecules.
How to become a Chemist
- Look up Chemist roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Chemist - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Lab technique
- Analytical instruments
- Statistics
- Health and safety
- Report writing