Biochemists, whose work encompasses both biology and chemistry, are not included in this report. Working Conditions Chemists usually work regular hours in offices and laboratories. Some are exposed to health or safety hazards when handling certain chemicals, but there is little risk if proper procedures are followed. Employment Chemists held over 84,000 jobs in 1990. Chemists also work for State and local governments, primarily in health and agriculture, and for Federal agencies, chiefly the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Resources, and Agriculture.
Smaller numbers work for nonprofit research organizations.
In addition, about 19,500 persons held chemistry faculty positions in colleges and universities. Chemists are employed in all parts of the country, but they are concentrated in large industrial areas. Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement A bachelor's degree with a major in chemistry or a related discipline is sufficient for many beginning jobs as a chemist. However, graduate training is required for most research jobs, and most college teaching jobs require a Ph.D degree. Beginning chemists should have a broad background in chemistry, with good laboratory skills.