Military Chemists

Military Career

General Information

Description

Chemists conduct and advise on research having military and/or medical application, such as protection of personnel from chemical, biological, and radiological agents; development, handling, and use of improved petroleum and synthetic fuels and lubricants; and, purification and control of atmosphere, as on nuclear submarines. Chemists also perform experiments; devise instrumentation and techniques to record and collect test results; correlate and analyze data compiled in research; and, brief results.

Explore this career outside the military

Work Environment

Chemists in the military work in a variety of settings, both indoors and outdoors, depending on the area of specialization. Many chemists perform their work in laboratories or offices. Other chemists spend extensive hours outdoors collecting and analyzing data in the field. Although they observe strict safety precautions, some chemists may be exposed to hazardous substances.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure

Comparable Industries

  • Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Officer
    • Managerial/professional
    • College degree required

Military Workforce

Chemists in the Military

63

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Salary

Average Salary

$130,960

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Bachelor's degree 85%
  • Master's degree 6%
  • Associate's degree 4%
  • Post baccalaureate 2%
  • High school 0%
  • Some college 0%
  • Doctoral degree 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%
  • Post-secondary certificate 0%

Military training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for chemists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

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Knowledge

  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Production and Processing
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Education and Training

Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership
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