People employed in the field of chemistry work on such diverse projects as trying to find cures for diseases, protecting people from environmental damage, and finding new ways to heat homes.
This field requires both the ability to collaborate and work with others as well as the self discipline to work independently. All chemists must, of course, be comfortable working in laboratories and be familiar with the scientific instruments which must be used. Good problem solving skills, keen attention to detail, creative thinking, and logical minds are also advantages in chemistry related positions.
Approximately 50 percent of careers in this field are research jobs, but teaching and government positions are also widely available. Although university degrees in chemistry are necessary for most high-level positions, high school graduates or those with just a year or two of post secondary education can obtain laboratory assistant or technician jobs. Average chemistry career salaries range from between around C
$31,400 and C
$64,900, but senior level positions can pay over C
$115,000.