The Career
Chemical technicians assist chemists and chemical engineers who develop, produce and use chemical products, equipment and related items. Most chemical technicians work in a laboratory setting for companies that manufacture pharmaceuticals, food, fertilizer and detergent.
Others work for public or private firms in such fields as water treatment, environmental analysis, biotechnology or medical research. Some chemical technicians also work in crime labs.
Chemical technicians work in laboratories with a variety of different instruments. The type of instruments varies from laboratory to laboratory, but some instruments are universal: high-performance liquid chromatographs, gas chromatographs, infrared spectrophotometers and UV-visible spectrophotometers. Chemical technicians set up the instruments and run analysis of samples to confirm composition of materials and to test for quality and performance.
Professional Traits
- Aptitude for math and science
- Be able to analyze, compare and interpret data
- Clearly communicate results both verbally and in writing
- Good at working with people in a team environment
- Have high standard of integrity
- Safely handle chemicals and equipment
Employment and Salary Opportunities
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 350,000 technicians, analysts and related chemical professionals are employed in the United States, and that number is projected to grow 3.1% through 2014. Chemical technicians salaries range from $30,151 to $51,379, depending on company size, and experience of the technician.
The Program
The AAS in Chemical Technology is a 66-credit hour program for individuals seeking to work as chemical technicians with chemists, chemical engineers and environmentalists. Students learn to use analytical chemistry equipment and apply chemical principles and analytic skills to processes used in chemical and industrial laboratories.
They also use forensic techniques, learn to calibrate equipment, prepare and analyze reports, review chemical processes and understand their outcomes. Students also learn to plan, design and manage systems, processes and resources used by chemical and industrial laboratories.
Admissions Requirements
Students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation sent to the registration office).
- Application for admission.
- A placement test as specified by the college (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results).
Transfer Options
The Associate of Applied Science degree is designed for those students seeking employment immediately upon graduation. Many of the credits, particularly the general education electives received with this degree, are accepted as transfer credit by four-year colleges and/or universities.
Please note that transferring credit is decided by the bachelor degree granting institution. Students who are seeking transfer are advised to contact the four-year institutions regarding transferability before beginning a program and/or review other AAS or AA degrees offered through East Central College.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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