How to Become a Chemical Technician?
Explore the essential steps, skills, and opportunities for aspiring chemical technicians. Your comprehensive guide to building a successful career in chemistry!
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Chemical Technician
"Chemistry is the art of understanding the world at its most fundamental level. A chemical technician transforms theory into practice, making discoveries that drive progress and innovation." – Dr. Richard R. Schrock
Chemical technicians perform testing on various substances and materials in research and analytical facilities. They focus on environmental impact, quality control, compliance, and maintenance. Specializing in a particular sector, they manage chemical orders, process requests, and document procedures and issues. Their work involves preparing scientific equipment, cleaning workstations, and safely handling hazardous materials.
Steps to Become a Chemical Technician:
Step-1
Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, focusing on chemistry, biology, and mathematics.
Step-2
Pursue a degree in chemistry or a related field from a recognized institution.
Step-3
Acquire hands-on experience through internships, lab assistant roles, or related work during or after your degree.
Step-4
Although not always required, obtaining certification from professional organizations like the American Chemical Society (ACS) can enhance job prospects.
Step-5
Start applying for entry-level jobs in laboratories, manufacturing plants, or research facilities.
Step-6
Acquire and hone skills relevant to your specific field or sector, such as quality control or environmental testing.
Step-7
Stay updated with industry advancements and consider further education or training to advance your career.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade from a recognized institution |
| Educational Background | Preferred subjects are chemistry, physics, and biology. |
| Undergraduate Degree | Earn a B.Sc or B.Tech degree, or a relevant diploma, to start your career. |
| Postgraduate Degree | An M.Tech in a related field can provide advanced knowledge and open up more career opportunities. |
| Entrance Exams | Valid score in entrance exams such as JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CEE, HITSEE, GATE, etc. Some institutions have their own entrance exams in addition to national ones. |
- Must have at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade with chemistry, physics, and biology from a recognized board. Cut-offs vary by college.
- Obtain a valid score in Entrance exams after 12th like JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, or GATE. Some colleges have their own exams.
- Earn a B.Sc/B.Tech degree or diploma in a relevant field
- An M.Tech in Forensic Science can enhance career prospects and advanced learning.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as a Chemical Technician:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Chemical technicians require a diverse range of skills to excel in their positions. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Understanding chemical principles, reactions, and processes. | Knowledge of standard lab techniques and safety protocols. |
| Proficiency in methods such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and titration | Understand the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials. |
| Familiarity with lab equipment and instrumentation used for testing and analysis. | Skilled in performing calculations and analyzing data related to chemical processes. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Analytical Skills | Attention to Detail |
| Communication Skills | Problem-Solving Skills |
| Time Management | Manual Dexterity |
| Organizational Skills | Safety Awareness |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Chemical Technician.
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job roles offered for a Chemical Technician:
Once you procure the required qualifications for becoming a Chemical Technician, a myriad of options is open to you. There are multiple projects you can undertake throughout this line of work, and there are many other fields you can branch out to as well.
Performs studies to analyze the chemical composition of materials using advanced equipment and techniques. They prepare detailed technical reports and may collaborate with researchers and professionals.
Examines substances to establish their chemical makeup, following specific guidelines. They work in labs, sometimes requiring overtime, and are involved in product development and quality assurance.
Manages concrete for various applications, overseeing mixing and setting processes. They ensure quality and safety, stay updated on industry advances, and collaborate with construction teams.
Design and manage pyrotechnic displays, using reactive chemicals. They need expertise in chemistry, mathematics, and biology to create safe and effective pyrotechnics for events or media.
Identifies and analyzes materials at crime scenes, conducting tests to determine their origin. They assist investigators by providing crucial information about evidence collected.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career Opportunities for a Chemical Technician:
Chemical Technicians can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals | GAIL | GHCL |
| Oil and Natural Gas | Hindustan Petroleum | Shree Cement |
| Rajat Minerals | Indian Oil | Color-Chem |
| Reliance Industries | Honeywell |
Colleges offering courses for Chemical Technician:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai | Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi |
| Chandigarh University, Chandigarh | Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai |
| Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur | Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur |
| Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee | Parul University, Vadodara |
| Birla Institute of Technology And Science, Pilani | Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati |
End Note
A career as a chemical technician opens doors to a world of scientific discovery and practical application. With the right education and hands-on experience, you can become an integral part of cutting-edge research and industry processes. Ready to take the next step? Connect with our experts at SetMyCareer to guide you through Career counselling after graduation help you achieve your career goals.
In this Career Outline
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