A chemist's job involves conducting experiments, analyzing substances for composition and quality, developing new products or processes, and documenting findings, all while adhering to strict safety and quality standards in diverse settings like R&D, manufacturing, or forensics, requiring strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Key duties include preparing solutions, using instruments like chromatography and spectroscopy, troubleshooting equipment, and writing technical reports, often collaborating with scientists and engineers.
Core Responsibilities:
Experimentation & Analysis: Plan and execute experiments, prepare reagents, analyze organic and inorganic compounds, and test products for quality and composition.
Quality Control: Perform tests to ensure products meet safety and quality standards, often involved in refining formulas.
Research & Development: Investigate chemical properties, develop new materials, products, or analytical methods, and improve existing processes.
Data & Reporting: Accurately record observations, interpret data, write technical reports, and present findings.
Laboratory Management: Maintain and calibrate equipment, ensure compliance with safety protocols (GLP/GMP), and manage chemical storage.
Common Skills & Qualifications:
Education: Typically a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry or a related field.
Technical Skills: Proficiency with analytical techniques (GC, HPLC, Spectroscopy) and laboratory instrumentation.
Soft Skills: Strong analytical, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Attributes: Meticulous attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work safely with hazardous materials.