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6 Chemical and Physical Science Jobs in United States
Problems move through equipment and minds across shifts, with solutions emerging from precise observation and systematic testing.
- Business Line Product Steward, Product Stewardship
- Celanese
- Wilmington, United States
- $90,000 – $130,000New
- Senior Geochemist
- RESPEC
- Bozeman, United States
- $100,000 – $130,000New
- Research Scientist Intern, Optical Engineering (PhD)
- Meta
- Redmond, United States
- Senior Geologist
- Kinross Gold Corporation
- Elko, United States
- Research and Development Intern
- Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC
- Chico, United States
- Research Intern – Chemistry
- Zymo Research Corporation
- Tustin, United States
- $40,000
Chemical and physical science roles involve designing experiments, analyzing materials, monitoring reactions, and troubleshooting equipment performance. Employers typically require a relevant degree—chemistry, physics, materials science, or engineering—and often seek candidates with lab experience, attention to detail, and proficiency in analytical techniques. These positions span research institutions, manufacturing facilities, pharmaceutical companies, and quality assurance departments, ranging from entry-level technician roles to senior scientist positions overseeing complex projects.
Chemical and Physical Science jobs by city
More in Science & Research
- Health and Medical Research203
- General Research137
- Scientific Technicians124
- Environmental and Climate Science114
- Biological Science67
Questions
What qualifications do employers require for entry-level positions?
Most entry roles require a bachelor's degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a related field. Some employers accept candidates with associate degrees and relevant laboratory experience, though advancement typically depends on completing a four-year degree.
What happens during a typical day in these roles?
Days involve lab work, data collection, equipment calibration, and documentation. Tasks vary widely—one day might center on running analytical tests, while another focuses on troubleshooting instrument malfunctions or preparing samples for analysis.
Which technical skills matter most?
Proficiency with laboratory instruments, statistical analysis software, and safety protocols forms the foundation. Strong skills in data interpretation, problem-solving, and attention to measurement precision often distinguish high performers from others.
How do scientists progress from technician to senior roles?
Advancement usually requires demonstrating expertise in specialized techniques, taking on project leadership responsibilities, and often pursuing higher degrees. Movement into senior positions typically involves mentoring, research direction, and broader strategic contributions.
What working conditions are standard?
Lab environments require personal protective equipment and adherence to safety standards. Hours are typically standard, though project deadlines or experiments in progress may occasionally demand extended shifts or weekend monitoring.
How does research work differ from quality assurance?
Research focuses on discovery, method development, and pushing boundaries in understanding materials or reactions. Quality assurance emphasizes consistency, compliance, and ensuring products or processes meet established specifications and regulatory requirements.
What role does documentation play?
Recording observations, measurements, and procedures accurately is essential—results mean nothing without clear, reproducible records. Documentation supports regulatory compliance, enables others to replicate findings, and becomes critical if results are questioned.
Are these roles isolated or collaborative?
Most involve teamwork within labs or departments, with scientists coordinating on projects, reviewing findings, and solving problems collectively. The degree of collaboration varies by employer and specialization.
What happens when experiments fail or produce unexpected results?
Investigating anomalies is core to the work—unexpected outcomes often contain valuable information. Scientists analyze what went wrong, adjust variables, and retest rather than simply moving forward.
How do these careers differ from engineering positions?
Scientists focus on understanding properties, behaviors, and reactions in materials or systems. Engineers apply that knowledge to design, build, and optimize practical products or processes at scale.