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Degrees and Schools
Technical institutions offer training for scientific technicians, however they typically provide less theory and general education than community colleges. Some school provide two-year programs in chemical technology and process technology. Some related programs are laboratory technology, science technology and chemical engineering technology. Some schools provide internships or cooperative-education programs. Also, chemical technicians working in research and development often have a bachelor's degree.
Classes
Students study subjects such as:
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Chemical engineering
- Science
- Applied chemistry
- Biochemistry
Good computer skills are usually important in the occupation.
Online Classes and Programs
There are some online chemistry bachelor's degree programs, however chemistry students can benefit from training provided in laboratories on-campus.
Prospective online students should look for schools which have received accreditation from agencies approved by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education.
Employment Requirements
Most employers seek candidates that have attended a college or technical institute for two or more years. Chemical technician jobs in research and development often require a bachelor's degree, however most chemical process technicians have a two year degree; typically an associate degree in process technology. Some companies provide on-the-job training to high school graduates.
Some of the major employment sectors are chemicals, rubber, drugs and steel. Chemical technicians are also employed by government agencies, professional, scientific and technical services firms, colleges and universities, and hospitals.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
While evaluating schools, prospective students should consider getting answers to the following questions:
- School's Reputation - Does the school have a good reputation with chemical manufacturing companies?
- Training - Does the program include externships? Does the school offer a variety of externships?
- Curriculum - Can students specialize in their area of interest?
- Job Placement - Does the school provide job placement services? How does the school's job placement rate for chemical technicians compare to other schools? Does the school provide job fairs?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Has the school been approved to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Has the school been accredited by an agency which has been approved by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Chemical Technicians Job Description
Chemical technicians are involved in developing and producing chemicals and related products. Some chemical technicians are involved in developing new chemical engineering processes and production techniques. They work with chemical engineers and chemists. Most chemical technicians work in research and development.
Process control technicians work in manufacturing and other industrial plants. These chemical technicians are often involved in quality assurance, developing new production techniques and monitoring production processes or product quality.
Research technicians work in experimental laboratories. Chemical technicians working in research and development perform routine and complex procedures.
Some of their responsibilities are shown below:
- Assist engineers in making final product designs
- Assist engineers in installing equipment
- Make sure raw materials, methods and finished products meet standards
- Set up and perform chemical experiments, tests and analysis
- Keep equipment in good condition
- Provide technical support and assistance to chemists and engineers
- Write technical reports and prepare graphs and charts to document experimental results
- Prepare chemical solutions for processes and products
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