Chemistry is an expansive subject with lots of overlap with other sciences, making it a great subject to study if you like interdisciplinary work. It is also a field that offers a variety of career opportunities. Whether you want to pursue pure chemistry or combine it with other natural sciences or life sciences, there is a chemistry career out there for you! Here are some great options for jobs in chemistry in Australia.
| 🧪 Job Title | 💰 Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Geochemist | $100K |
| Pharmacist | $80-$100K |
| Chemical Engineer | $95K |
| Toxicologist | $95K |
| Agricultural Scientist | $90K |
| Science Educator | $85K+ |
| Forensic Scientist | $85K |
| Environmental Chemist | $85K |
| Analytical Chemist | $80K |
| Food Technologist | $71K |
What Can You Do with a Chemistry Degree?
There are hundreds of different chemistry careers out there for those passionate about the science; it’s far too much to cover in one article! The world of chemistry is full of nuance and overlap when it comes to all the different jobs available.
You’ll notice that many chemistry jobs have a lot in common with one another. Depending on where you work and what your main responsibilities are there, you may perform some of the same duties as another chemist. The difference is your approach to the information and how you use it to meet your specific goals.
Here are ten top chemistry careers to consider when pursuing your university degree.
When working in a chemistry career, you might work from a number of different locations. Chemistry jobs tend to take place in a few environments: laboratories, offices, factories or plants, and outdoors or on-site.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers apply chemistry, physics, and engineering principles to develop and improve industrial processes. They work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, and manufacturing. Their responsibilities include designing and overseeing chemical manufacturing processes, ensuring safety and efficiency in production plants, and developing sustainable solutions for industries. Chemical engineers may also work on environmental projects, such as waste treatment and pollution control. They often collaborate with other engineers and scientists to improve product quality and reduce costs.
Average Salary
Around $95,000 per year
Job Market
Moderate demand, particularly in energy and pharmaceuticals
Related Careers
Process Engineer, Materials Engineer, Petroleum Engineer
Science Educator
Science educators teach chemistry in schools, universities, and public institutions. They inspire the next generation of scientists and help spread scientific literacy. Their responsibilities include designing lesson plans, conducting laboratory experiments, grading assignments, and staying up to date with the latest scientific advancements. University lecturers may also conduct research and publish their findings. Science educators work to make chemistry accessible and engaging while ensuring students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Average Salary
Around $85,000 per year for secondary teachers, higher for university lecturers
Job Market
Steady demand, especially in secondary education
Related Careers
University Lecturer, Laboratory Instructor, Curriculum Developer
Food Technologist
Food technologists ensure the safety, quality, and nutrition of food products. They work in food production, quality control, and research to develop new food technologies. Their responsibilities include testing ingredients for contamination, improving food preservation techniques, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Food technologists also experiment with new recipes and food processing methods to enhance taste and texture while maintaining nutritional value. They may work in laboratories, food production plants, or government agencies that regulate food safety.
Average Salary
Around $71,000 per year
Job Market
Moderate demand, growing with food innovation trends
Related Careers
Food Chemist, Nutrition Scientist, Quality Assurance Officer
Toxicologist
Toxicologists study harmful substances and their effects on humans, animals, and the environment. They work in pharmaceuticals, environmental agencies, and forensic labs. Their responsibilities include testing chemicals for toxicity, assessing exposure risks, and developing safety guidelines for chemicals used in medicine, food, and industry. Toxicologists may also conduct experiments to determine the long-term effects of chemical exposure and work with policymakers to regulate hazardous substances.
Average Salary
Around $95,000 per year
Job Market
Moderate demand, particularly in medical and environmental research
Related Careers
Environmental Scientist, Pharmacologist, Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Forensic Scientist
Forensic scientists analyse chemical evidence in criminal investigations. They work with law enforcement agencies to examine substances such as drugs, toxins, and trace materials. Their duties include conducting laboratory tests to identify chemical compositions of evidence samples, using advanced instruments like mass spectrometers, and preparing reports for use in court cases. Forensic scientists may also visit crime scenes to collect samples and provide expert testimony during trials.
Average Salary
Around $85,000 per year
Job Market
Stable demand, with growth in forensic technology
Related Careers
Crime Scene Investigator, Toxicologist, DNA Analyst
Analytical Chemist
Analytical chemists use laboratory techniques to study substances and identify their composition. They work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food safety, and industrial research. Their duties include testing samples for contaminants, developing new methods for chemical analysis, and ensuring products meet quality control standards. Analytical chemists often work with sophisticated instruments like chromatography and spectroscopy to provide precise measurements of chemical compounds. Their work is crucial in many scientific areas including medicine, manufacturing, and environmental protection.
Average Salary
Around $80,000 per year
Job Market
High demand in medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors
Related Careers
Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Chemist, Chemical Analyst
Pharmacist
Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare. They dispense medications, advise patients, and ensure safe pharmaceutical practices. Their responsibilities include reviewing prescriptions for accuracy, educating patients on medication usage and potential side effects, and collaborating with doctors to optimise drug therapy. Pharmacists also manage pharmacy inventory, ensure compliance with pharmaceutical laws, and sometimes prepare customised medications for specific patient needs. They work in community pharmacies, hospitals, aged-care facilities, and research institutions.
Average Salary
Around $80,000–$100,000 per year
Job Market
High demand, especially in rural areas
Related Careers
Clinical Pharmacist, Hospital Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher
Geochemist
Geochemists study the chemical composition of the Earth, including minerals, water, and soil. They work in mining, environmental science, and energy industries. Their responsibilities include analysing rock samples, investigating groundwater contamination, and researching mineral deposits for mining companies. Geochemists often work in laboratories but may also conduct fieldwork in remote locations. Their findings help industries make informed decisions about resource extraction and environmental protection. Due to the level of education and specialised skill required to become a geochemist, it's one of the highest paying chemistry jobs in Australia.
Average Salary
Around $100,000 per year
Job Market
High demand in mining and natural resource industries
Related Careers
Hydrogeologist, Environmental Geologist, Petroleum Geochemist
Agricultural Scientist
Agricultural scientists improve farming methods, studying soil chemistry, pesticides, and fertilisers to increase crop yield and sustainability. They perform duties such as researching new farming techniques, testing soil and water quality, and developing pest control methods. Agricultural scientists work closely with farmers, government agencies, and environmental groups to ensure agricultural practices are sustainable and efficient. They also contribute to food security by improving the nutritional quality of crops.
Average Salary
Around $90,000 per year
Job Market
High demand due to the need for sustainable agriculture
Related Careers
Soil Scientist, Agronomist, Crop Researcher
Environmental Chemist
Environmental chemists analyse pollutants and develop strategies to reduce environmental harm. They work in government agencies, environmental firms, and research labs. Their responsibilities include testing air, water, and soil for contamination, developing methods to clean up hazardous waste, and researching the effects of chemicals on ecosystems. Environmental chemists also work with policymakers to establish environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices.
Average Salary
Around $85,000 per year
Job Market
Growing demand due to climate change and sustainability concerns
Related Careers
Ecotoxicologist, Water Quality Scientist, Waste Management Specialist
Best Universities and Degrees for Chemistry in Australia
If you’re looking to build a career in chemistry, earning a degree from a top university is essential. Many chemistry careers are unattainable for those who have not completed at least a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Specialised roles may only be open to graduates with a specific degree; for example, one would need to have a Bachelor of Pharmacy to pursue a role in the pharmaceutical field.
Here are some of the best universities in Australia for chemistry-related degrees:
- The University of Melbourne
- Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)
- Master of Science (Chemistry)
- Australian National University (ANU)
- Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)
- Master of Environmental Science
- The University of Sydney
- Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)
- Master of Pharmacy
- The University of Queensland
- Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)
- Master of Chemical Engineering
- Monash University
- Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science
- Bachelor of Environmental Science
- The University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- Bachelor of Science (Materials Chemistry)
- Bachelor of Chemical Engineering
- RMIT University
- Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours)
- Master of Science (Applied Chemistry)
There are of course many other universities that offer education in chemistry, and each of these universities may have more degree options than the ones listed here. Again, it’s just too much to list out in a short article, but rest assured that there are plenty of options for you to choose from.
How to Succeed in Chemistry Studies
Chemistry is considered by many as one of the most difficult subjects to study, and learning all the required skills to have a successful career can be difficult even for those who understand chemistry well. Being prepared for all that you’ll need to master in a university chemistry course is important for graduating with the least stress and the most knowledge possible.
Here are some tips to help you flourish in your chemistry classes.
Master the Fundamentals
A solid understanding of chemistry basics will help you tackle more advanced topics. Be sure to learn as much as you can about chemistry in high school so the transition between Year 12 and university is easier.
If you are having trouble keeping up in your high school or university courses, you can enlist the help of a private tutor to help you stay on top. Falling behind in a difficult subject like chemistry can be very difficult to recover from, so it’s important to seek tutoring when you need it without waiting too long.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Participate in laboratory research, internships, or work placements to develop practical skills. Most universities will have internship opportunities for students as part of the course curriculum, making it easy to get real-life experience.
Certain professions, like pharmacists, require post-graduate, supervised internships in order to get board-certified.
University chemistry degree programmes teach students about the fundamentals of chemistry up to advanced chemistry concepts. There will be lots of lectures and hands-on practical lab work, as well as lots of research.
Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow advancements in chemistry-related fields to understand where the industry is headed. Meeting with classmates or other chemistry students from around the world can help you understand the bigger picture of chemistry developments around the globe.
Network with Professionals
Join chemistry organisations and attend industry events to connect with potential employers. Attending conferences is another great way to stay informed and learn about important people in the field.
Consider Postgraduate Study
Many high-level chemistry jobs require a master’s or Ph.D. for career advancement. Many universities offer pathways into certain programs, so if you’re looking to make a pivot into the chemistry field from a different industry, you may be able to do so.
Entering a career in chemistry is a rewarding, fulfilling, and often lucrative move. If you can conquer the intricacies of chemistry, you will be on your way to an interesting job role! If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with your studies (in any subject, not just chemistry) you can seek out assistance from a qualified tutor on Superprof.
With help from a private Superprof tutor, you can get the extra help needed to understand, absorb, and retain all the vital information from your chemistry classes. Tutors are available online and in-person, so you can choose which method works best for your preferences. Discover your perfect Superprof tutor today!
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