9 Science Careers

Make a difference in the world

BY DAWN ROSENBERG MCKAY
https://www.thebalancecareers.com/science-careers-525645

March 05, 2018

Imagine a world without scientists. Disease would run rampant, advances in technology
would be non-existent, and the environment would be a disaster. People who work in
science careers are responsible for many of the things we, as a society, benefit from every
day.

To prepare for a science career, you will have to study either a life or physical science. Life
sciences involve learning about living organisms and include subjects like biology,
biochemistry, microbiology, zoology, and ecology.

Physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology are all physical sciences, which deal with the
study of non-living matter.

Here are nine high paying science careers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
predicts that employment in most of these occupations will grow at least as fast as the
average for all occupations through 2026. Only one is predicted to have job growth that is
slower than average. You may also be interested in learning about STEM careers, health
professions, and health technology careers.

Biochemist or Biophysicist

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical properties of living things and
biological processes. To work in this field, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in
biochemistry, biology, chemistry or physics. This will qualify you for an entry-level job. You
will need a doctorate if you want to do independent research or get a job in development.

Biochemists and biophysicists earned a median annual salary of $82,180 in 2016. The
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment will grow faster than the average for all
occupations, with 3,600 new jobs added between 2016 and 2026.

Chemist

Chemists study chemicals and how they can be used to improve our lives.

You will need a master's degree or a Ph.D. in chemistry for most jobs. You might be able to
find a position with a bachelor's degree, but your choices will be limited. Chemists earned a
median annual salary of $73,740 in 2016. The job outlook is slightly lower than average with
employment expected to grow about six percent between 2016 and 2026. The more
advanced your degree, the better your job prospects will be.
Conservationist

Conservationists help landowners and governments find ways to protect natural resources
such as soil and water. To get a job in this field, you will have to earn a bachelor's degree in
ecology, natural resource management, agriculture, biology or environmental science. In
2016, conservationists made a median annual salary of $61,810. The BLS
predicts employment growth through 2026 that is as fast as the average for all occupations.

Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists identify, reduce, and eradicate pollutants and other hazards that
threaten the environment or the population's health. You can get an entry-level job with a
bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, engineering, chemistry or physics, but if
you hope to advance, you will need a master's degree.

Environmental scientists earned a median annual salary of $68,910 in 2016. If you are
looking for an occupation with an excellent outlook, the BLS predicts this one will experience
growth that is faster than the average for all occupations through 2026.

Environmental Science and Protection Technician

Environmental science and protection technicians—sometimes called environment

technicians—monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution and work under
environmental scientists' supervision. You will have to earn an associate degree or a
certificate in applied science or science-related technology, but some jobs require a
bachelor's degree in chemistry or biology. In 2016, environmental technicians earned a
median annual salary of $44,190. Employment is predicted to grow faster than the average
for all occupations through 2026 as it is for environmental scientists.

Forensic Scientist

Forensic scientists—also known as forensic science technicians or crime scene

investigators—investigate crimes by collecting and analyzing physical evidence. Many
employers prefer applicants who have at least two years of specialized training or
an associate degree in applied science or science-related technology. Others will only hire
those who have a bachelor's degrees in chemistry, biology, or forensic science. Forensic
scientists earned a median annual salary of $56,750 in 2016. The BLS predicts employment
for forensic scientists will grow much faster than the average for all occupations through
2026.

Geoscientist

Geoscientists search for natural resources or help environmental scientists clean up the
environment. To get an entry-level research position you will need at least a bachelor's
degree in geoscience or earth science, but most research positions require a doctorate.
Geoscientists earned a median salary of $89,780 in 2016. Employment is predicted to
grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2024. Individuals with a master's
degree will have their choice of jobs.

Hydrologist

Hydrologists study bodies of water, both on the earth's surface and underground. They look
at their circulation, distribution, and physical properties. To work in this field, you will need a
master's degree in geoscience, environmental science or engineering with a concentration in
hydrology or water sciences. Hydrologists earned a median annual salary of $80,480 in
2016. The BLS predicts job growth that is faster than the average for all occupations through
2026.

Medical Scientist

Medical scientists do research to determine the causes of disease. They also look for ways
to prevent and cure them. To work as a medical scientist, you will need a doctorate in a
biological science, a medical degree (M.D.) or both. Median annual earnings were $80,530 in
2016. Job growth is predicted to be faster than average for all occupations through 2026.

Comparing Science Careers

Median Predicted Job
Preferred Education Salary Growth 2016-
(2016) 2026
Biochemist or
Doctorate in Applied Science $82,180 11%
Biophysicist
Chemist Master's Degree or Ph.D. in Chemistry $73,740 7%
Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Ecology, Natural
Conservationist Resource Management, Agriculture or $61,810 6%
Environmental Science
Master's Degree in Environmental
Environmental
Science, Biology, Engineering, Chemistry or $68,910 11%
Scientist
Physics
Environmental Associate Degree or Certificate in Applied
$44,190 12%
Technician Science or Science-Related Technology
Associate Degree or Two Years of Specialized
Forensic Scientist Training in Applied Science or Science-Related $56,750 17%
Technology.
Master's Degree or Ph.D. in Geology or Earth
Geoscientist $89,780 14%
Science
Master's Degree in Engineering, Geoscience or
Hydrologist Environmental Science With a Concentration in $80,480 10%
Hydrology or Water Sciences
Ph.D. in Biological Science and/or M.D. (Medical
Medical Scientist $80,530 13%
Degree)
50 STEM Careers

Many careers can utilize the skills and knowledge acquired through education in a
STEM discipline. Here are 50 of them:

 Actuary: An actuary uses database software, statistical analysis and modeling

software to evaluate the probability of an event occurring in order to minimize
its impact on his or her employer.
 Architect: An architect designs buildings and other structures, making sure they
are functional, safe and meet the needs of those who inhabit them.
 Biochemist and Biophysicist: A biochemist and a biophysicist both study living
organisms and their relationship to the environment.
 Biomedical Engineer: A biomedical engineer solves problems having to do with
biology or medicine.

 Cardiovascular Technologist: A cardiovascular technologist uses non-invasive

or invasive procedures to help doctors diagnose and treat cardiac and vascular
problems.
 Chemist: By searching for and using new knowledge about chemicals, a
chemist creates processes and develops products that improve the way we live.
 Computer and Information Systems Manager: A computer and information
systems manager, who may go under the title chief information officer, chief
technology officer, IT director, or IT security officer, directs an organization's
computer-related activities.

 Computer Hardware Engineer: A computer hardware engineer oversees the

manufacture and installation of the physical parts of computers and computer
systems.
 Computer Programmer: A computer programmer writes the code that serves as
a set of instructions that make software and operating systems work as
intended.
 Computer Support Specialist: A computer support specialist helps people who
are having trouble using computer hardware, software or peripherals.
 Computer Systems Analyst: A computer systems analyst helps an organization
use technology efficiently and effectively.

 Conservationist: A conservationist helps governments and landowners utilize

land without harming natural resources such as soil and water.
 Cost Estimator: A cost estimator calculates how much it will cost to complete a
construction or manufacturing project.
 Dental Hygienist: A dental hygienist, working alongside a dentist, provides
preventative oral care to patients.
 Dentist: A dentist diagnoses and treats any problems he or she finds after
examining a patient's teeth and mouth tissue.
 Dietitian: A dietitian plans and supervises food and nutrition programs at
institutions including schools, nursing homes, and hospitals.
 Doctor: A doctor, also called a physician, diagnoses and then treats injuries and
illnesses.
 Engineer: An engineer uses his or her expertise in science, engineering, and
math to solve technical problems. He or she specializes in a particular branch
of engineering.
 Engineering Technician: An engineering technician uses his or her expertise in
science, math, and engineering to assist engineers in solving technical
problems. He or she specializes in a particular engineering discipline.
 Environmental Scientist: An environmental scientist conducts research that
allows him or her to find ways to protect the environment.

 Environmental Technician: An environmental technician, working under the

supervision of an environmental scientist, monitors the environment
by performing laboratory and field tests.
 Forensic Scientist: A forensic scientist gathers, documents, and analyzes
physical evidence from crime scenes.
 Geographer: A geographer researches the land, features, inhabitants, and
phenomena of a specific region of the earth in order to help governments and
businesses plan construction, disaster response, and marketing strategies.

 Geoscientist: A geoscientist studies physical aspects of the earth such as its

structure and composition.
 Hydrologist: A hydrologist studies the distribution, circulation, and physical
properties of underground and surface waters.
 Laboratory Technician: A laboratory technician performs tests and procedures
that help medical professionals diagnose diseases, and plan treatments and
ascertain their effectiveness.
 Laboratory Technologist: A laboratory technologist performs complex tests that
help doctors and other medical professionals diagnose and treat diseases.

 Medical Scientist: A medical scientist researches the causes of diseases and

then develops ways to prevent or treat them.
 Network Systems Analyst: A network systems analyst designs, analyzes, tests,
and evaluates network systems including local area networks (LANS), wide
area networks (WANS), the internet and intranets.
 Nuclear Medicine Technologist: A nuclear medicine technologist administers
radioactive drugs to a patient to diagnose or treat a disease.
 Nurse, Licensed Practical: A licensed practical nurse (LPN) cares for patients
under the supervision of a registered nurse.

 Nurse, Registered: A registered nurse (RN) provides medical and emotional

support to patients and their families.
 Occupational Therapist: An occupational therapist (OT) helps patients regain
their ability to perform daily living and work activities.
 Operations Research Analyst: An operations research analyst solves problems
for organizations and businesses using his or her expertise in mathematics.
 Optometrist: An optometrist diagnoses and treats disorders and diseases of the
eye.
 Pharmacist: A pharmacist dispenses medication and explains their safe use to
patients.
 Physical Therapist: A physical therapist (PT) uses a variety of techniques
to restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit
permanent physical disabilities in their patients.
 Psychologist (Clinical): A clinical psychologist diagnoses and treats patients'
mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
 Radiologic Technologist: A radiologic technologist uses diagnostic imaging
equipment to help physicians diagnose illnesses and injuries.
 Respiratory Therapist: A respiratory therapist treats patients who are suffering
from breathing problems.

 Software Developer: A software developer creates the software that makes

computers and other devices functional.
 Surgical Technologist: A surgical technologist assists surgeons and nurses in
the operating room.
 Veterinarian: A veterinarian diagnoses illnesses and injuries and provides
medical care to animals.
 Veterinary Technician: A veterinary technician assists a veterinarian in
providing medical care to animals.
 Web Developer: A web developer creates applications and software that makes
websites function.
 Chemist Job Description and Career
Information
Career Information
•••
BY DAWN ROSENBERG MCKAY

Updated September 20, 2017

A chemist searches for new knowledge about chemicals and uses it to improve the
way we live. He or she may develop products such as synthetic fibers, drugs, and
cosmetics. A chemist also creates processes, including oil refining and petrochemical
processing, that reduce energy use and pollution. Chemists specialize in areas such
as analytical, organic, inorganic, physical and theoretical, macromolecular, medical,
and materials chemistry.

Quick Facts

 Chemists earned a median annual salary of $73,740.

 In 2014, 91,000 people worked in this occupation in the United States.
 They primarily had jobs in research and development in the physical,
engineering, and life sciences. Pharmaceutical manufacturers and testing
laboratories also employ chemists. Some work for the federal government, as
well as state and local governments.
 Their workplaces are labs and offices, where they are often part of research
teams.
 Chemists work regular, full-time hours.
 The job outlook for this occupation is poor according to the U.S. Bureau of
Labor Statistics. Employment is expected to grow more slowly than the average
for all occupations through 2024. You can increase your chances of finding a
job by earning a doctorate.

A Day in a Chemist's Life

Here are some typical job duties that appeared in job announcements on Indeed.com:

 "Perform routine laboratory testing tasks using equipment such as balances,

pipettes, pH meters, UV/Visible spectrophotometer, Total Organic Carbon
analyzer"

 "Define problems and objectives, develop approach, analyze results, and

provide recommendations"
  "Evaluate the chemical and physical properties of various organic and inorganic
substances such as active and in-active raw materials in order to verify the
compliance with the established specifications"

 "Proactively develop and maintain technical knowledge in specialized area(s),

remaining up-to-date on current trends and best practices"
 "Explore and pursue innovation/technologies and integrate them into state of
the art products"
 "Prepare paperwork, supplies, and equipment for use in the manufacturing
environment and analytical laboratory"

How to Become a Chemist

If you want to be a chemist, you will need to earn, at least, a bachelor's degree in
chemistry. However, most research jobs require a master's degree or, more likely, a
Ph.D.

With experience and advanced education in the form of a doctorate, chemists can
become lead researchers. Additional experience can mean assignments that include
working on bigger and more complex projects.

What Soft Skills Should Chemists Have?

In addition to formal education, certain soft skills, or personal qualities, will help you
succeed in this occupation. They are:

 Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Skills: As a chemist, you will have to
identify problems and come up with possible solutions to them. Before you can
implement those fixes, you will have to evaluate each one and then predict
which one will be the most effective.
 Speaking, Listening, and Interpersonal Skills: Since you are likely to be
working on a team, these skills are essential.

 Time Management Skills: Excellent time management skills will allow you to
meet deadlines.
 Analytical Skills: Chemists, like other scientists, must analyze a lot of data
 Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills will enable you to keep track
of all your data, and carefully document all processes and results.

What Will Employers Expect From You?

Here are requirements employers listed in job announcements on Indeed.com:

 "Displays confidence in ability to apply technical knowledge and experience to

solve client problems"
 "Highly collaborative, driven, and self-motivated with a positive attitude"
 "Strong ethics related to confidentiality and non-disclosure of intellectual
property"
 "Able to adapt effectively to changes in the work environment; able to deal with
frequent change, delays, or unexpected events"
  "Able to handle multiple priorities"
 "Working knowledge of various software applications including spreadsheet,
word processing, graphics, and analytical programs"

Is This Occupation a Good Fit for You?

 Holland Code: IRC (Investigative, Realistic, Conventional)

 MBTI Personality Types: INTP, ISFJ

Related Occupations

Median
Annual Minimum Required
Description
Wage Education/Training
(2016)
Food Analyzes the quality of food, Associate Degree in
Science food additives, and $37,550 Chemistry, Biology, or
Technician containers. Animal Science
Studies the chemical
Biochemist composition of living $82,180 Ph.D. in Biochemistry
organisms.
Studies the structure and
Bachelor's, Master's, or
Materials chemical properties of
$99,430 Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics,
Scientist materials in order to develop
or Engineering
new ones.
Helps chemists and
Associate Degree in Applied
Chemical chemical engineers with
$45,840 Science or Chemical
Technician research and development,
Technology
production, and testing.
Applies principles of
Chemical Bachelor's Degree in
engineering and chemistry to $98,340
Engineer Chemical Engineering
solve problems.

Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook
Handbook, 2016-17 (visited September 19, 2017).
Employment and Training Administration, US Department of Labor, O*NET
Online (visited September 19, 2017).