Chemist
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours
- Usually work in offices and laboratories
- May work in hazardous conditions involving chemicals and fumes
- Need to be methodical, accurate and safety conscious
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Do laboratory experiments
- Study experiments and chemicals
- Prepare tests for products
- Develop products and methods
- Maintain lab equipment
- Make sure lab work is done safely
- Prepare reports and presentations
- Work with scientists and other staff
- Create work standards
- Supervise staff
Outlook
Chemists play an important role in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, food production, environmental science and biotechnology. In New Zealand, ongoing investment in research, product development and sustainability is shaping the field. Globally, advances in areas such as green chemistry, biotechnology and automation are changing how chemicals and materials are developed and tested, creating opportunities for innovation across many sectors.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Knowledge of laboratory methods and safety practices
- Ability to interpret and communicate scientific findings
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
- Adaptability to new technologies and scientific developments
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.
This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.