And the federal government needs hundreds of patent examiners with expertise in chemistry. Jonathan Bleyhl, a new hire, works with supervisor Rongshi Li at ChemRx's new labs in San Diego. The job outlook for 2000 does appear to be bright, but sudden changes in the booming U.S. economy could alter hiring practices in a flash. Page 38 Hiring in 1999 did not shape up as well as predicted, but the job market in 2000 may be one of the best in a decade. Competition is fierce for top candidates in pharmaceutical and biotech firms and at many universities.
Small companies remain a good source of jobs for new graduates.
Page 47 Chemists who are employed enjoyed healthy salary gains, but joblessness remains relatively high considering the booming U.S. economy. Whether they produce polyethylene or penicillin, companies are facing greater competitive pressures. To help them cut through the bureaucracy and unleash synergies, more companies are forming multifunctional teams. Although finding jobs for two scientists in one location is sometimes discouraging, often frustrating, and always time-consuming, it can be done. Page 65 People who excel at their work aren't necessarily happy in their jobs.