Major to Career Guide

Industrial
Chemistry

Major: Chemistry
Emphasis: Industrial Chemistry
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Introduction
Chemistry is a major branch of science and involves the study of substances and energy. It focuses on their
composition, characteristics, changes, reactions, and uses. Chemists search for new materials and put to practical
use, knowledge gained about new substances such as antibiotics, polymers, ceramics, and superconductors.
The industrial chemistry emphasis offers training in chemistry, mathematics, physics and a minor area selected by the
student. The course of study provides a solid foundation in chemistry and specific background knowledge about the
chemical industry.
An industrial chemist is an applied scientist, some of whom are engaged in solving problems regarding research, while
others are responsible for successful operations of many large manufacturing companies across the world. They are
constantly striving to improve the safety and efficiency of making important chemicals and materials. They study the
change in optimization processes and work to improve those processes for others to use. Industrial chemists are at the
forefront of the management and control of the industrial processes, to ensure a clean and safe future.

What are some of the job tasks?

Conduct experiments to identify chemical

composition and study chemical changes
Research and analyze theories, techniques, and
processes
Involved in marketing and research
Develop improvements in various processes
Maintain quality control within established
processes
Discover what elements/minerals are present in
samples
Research mineral extraction
Create new substances
Transform chemicals into useful products like
plastics, coffee, whitener, and cosmetics

What are some desirable

personal qualities?

Ability to communicate, orally and written

Ability to concentrate on detail
Ability to work independently and/or in groups
Curiosity and perseverance
Imagination
Open and Active Mind
Patience
Persistence
Science and mathematical aptitude

What are some potential occupations?

Agricultural Chemist
Analytical Chemist
Biochemist
Chemical Engineer
Clinical Chemist
Dairy Scientist
Educator
Electrochemist
Environmental Chemist/Manager
Fiber Technologist
Food and Drug Analyst/Chemist
Inorganic Chemist
Laboratory Technician
Metallurgist
Mineralogist
Mycologist
Organic Chemist
Nematologist
Petrologist
Process Engineer
Production Manager
Research Chemist
Technical Writer

Who hires?

Additional information

Agriculture Conservation Centers

Analytical Service Laboratories
Aerospace Industry
Colleges and Universities
Environmental Firms
Food and Drug Industries
Government Agencies, Hospitals
Manufacturing Industries:

Biochemical Products

Building Materials

Coatings/Paints/Inks

Electronics

Glass/Ceramics

Paper

Personal Care

Petroleum/Natural Gas

Plastics and Rubber

Textiles
Medical/Technical Libraries
Professional and Technical Journals
Research Firms
Utility Companies
Waste Water Treatment Plants

Strongest employment opportunities are anticipated in

the pharmacological, petrochemical, and
environmental areas.
Those interested in managerial positions in business and
industry may benefit from additional course work in the
business or law areas.

Online internship information

ABBOTT
http://www.abbott.com

The Environmental Careers Organization

http://www.eco.org/

University of Northern Colorado

College of Natural and Health Sciences
School of Chemistry, Earth Sciences
and Physics
Ross Hall Room 3480
970.351.2559
www.unco.edu/chemist/chem_hp.htm

American Institute of Chemists

www.theaic.org/

Career opportunities for industrial chemists who have

received advanced degrees seem to be unlimited.

Central Intelligence Agency

http://www.odci.gov/employment/
student.html

Whom should I contact for

further information?

American Chemical Society

www.chemistry.org

Volunteer work, part-time jobs, internships, and

cooperative education experiences in chemistry
provide valuable experience and can lead to
full-time employment after graduation.

Intern Abroad
http://www.internabroad.com
National Wildlife Federation
http://www.nwf.org/careergateway/
Union Carbide
http://www.dow.com/careers/students
/intern.htm
Career Services Online
https://www.myinterfase.com/unc/student

Career Services University Center Greeley, CO 80639 (970) 351-2127

www.unco.edu/careers