Chemical Technologists and Technicians
NOC 2211
Description
Chemical technologists and technicians provide technical support and services or may work independently in chemical engineering, chemical and biochemical research and analysis, industrial chemistry, chemical quality control and environmental protection. They are employed by research and development and quality control laboratories, consulting engineering companies, in chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and a variety of other manufacturing and processing industries, and by utilities, health, educational and government establishments (Government of Ontario).
Duties
- Assist in setting up and conducting chemical experiments, tests and analyses
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and prepare solutions of gas, liquid, reagents and sample formulations
- Compile records and interpret experimental or analytical results
- Assist in the development of chemical engineering processes
- Assist in synthesis of small molecules for creating drug candidates
- Assist in the design and fabrication of experimental apparatus
- Test materials for quality, performance, and composition.
Other Titles
- Analytical chemistry technician
- Biochemistry technician
- Chemical analyst
- Chemical laboratory supervisor
- Chemical process technologist
- Chemical processing quality control technician
- Pharmaceuticals inspector
(Government of Canada National Occupation Classification)
Skills
- Communication Skills
- Critical thinking
- Writing
- Research
- Organization
- Quality assurance and control
- Detail-oriented
- Data analysis
- Computer skills
- Problem-solving
- Team work
Education/Training Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Most college/university programs in Ontario require an OSSD or Mature Student Status
Post-secondary diploma/degree
- Associates degree in chemical, biochemical, or chemical engineering technology or applied science, OR two years of post-secondary education.
- A bachelor’s degree can help earn advanced positions in the field.
- Ontario colleges offering relevant programs: Durham College, Seneca College, Loyalist College, Lambton College, Sheridan College, Mohawk College, St. Clair College
Certification
- Although it is not mandatory to become certified, chemical technologists and technicians can obtain National or Provincial certification (see “Additional Resources”)
Potential Earnings in Durham Region
The average and median wages and salaries for individuals employed as chemical technologists and technicians are as follows. Place of Residence (POR) is defined as individuals who reside within the Durham Region. Place of Work (POW) is defined as individuals who are employed within the Durham Region.
| Median Wages and Salaries (POW) | Average Wages and Salaries (POW) | Median Wages and Salaries (POR) | Average Wages and Salaries (POR) |
| $52,398 | $52,704 | $63,866 | $64,684 |
Employment Prospects
| Industry (NAICS) | Jobs in Durham Region (POW) | Durham Region Residents Employed (POR) |
| 3524 Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing | 40 | 50 |
| 5417 Scientific research and development services | 60 | 60 |
(Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development 2016 data in Durham Workforce Authority’s 2017 Sector Report)
Additional Resources
- Association of the Chemical Profession of Ontario: acpo.on.ca/
- The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists: oacett.org
- Canadian Society for Chemical Technology: http://www.cheminst.ca/about/cic/csct