The average salary of chemists has risen substantially in recent years, owing to the growth of the pharmaceutical sector and the increasing complexity of their job.
In the United States, the medical field is the most diversified sector and the accelerating growth in one field directly affects other fields, as the jobs are quite interrelated. Medicines are an integral part of the health care industry, and it’s no wonder that a major share of their revenue is derived from its sale. The salary has simultaneously increased in the recent years owing to factors like a rise in the number of pharmaceutical companies. Besides, the understanding and research of drugs and chemicals is another aspect that has helped in the proliferation of newer opportunities in the pharma industry. Chemists are involved in the research of new chemicals that are tested for efficacy as medicines in these pharmaceutical companies. They are also responsible for the management of the production and quality control programs in the chemical manufacturing plants.
Salary Ranges
The salary range for a work experience of around one year is between USD 30,000 to USD 44,000 annually. For work experience of more than one year and less than four years, it is between USD 38,000 to USD 50,000 annually. Those with a work experience of 5 to 9 years can get anything between USD 44,000 to USD 61,000. As they gain substantial work experience, their pay can go up to USD 70,000. Depending on their educational qualifications, individual work experience, nature of responsibilities, chemical specialty, and the size of the industry, the salary is decided. Generally, the pay scale is higher in the private sector than a government job.
So you should gather necessary information about the profession and must meet as many people as possible so that you can learn about the job and its profile from their experiences. The pay one earns comes after hard work and years of formal education. In the initial stages of your career, a bachelor’s degree in courses like chemistry can get you entry-level jobs in technical services or as an assistant to a senior chemist.
For better career prospects, it is advisable to go for a two-year master’s degree in a specialized field like inorganic, organic, or physical chemistry. You also have the option of teaching in schools, colleges, or universities depending on your qualification. Generally, a doctoral degree that requires four years of study is essential for teaching jobs at the college and university level. The annual income here can go as high as USD 80,000.
So next time you’re sitting in chemistry class thinking that this isn’t practical in everyday life, think again. It can turn into an exciting career one day.