Chemical technologists and technicians

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

• Chemical technologists

• Set up and conduct chemical experiments, tests and analyses using techniques such as chromatography, spectroscopy, physical and chemical separation techniques and microscopy

• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and apparatus and prepare solutions of gas or liquid, reagents, and sample formulations

• Compile records and interpret experimental or analytical results

• Develop and conduct programs of sampling and analysis to maintain quality standards of raw materials, chemical intermediates and products

• Assist in the development of chemical engineering processes, studies of chemical engineering procurement, construction, inspection and maintenance and the development of standards, procedures and health and safety measures

• Operate experimental chemical or petrochemical pilot plants

• Conduct or assist in air and water quality testing and assessments, environmental monitoring and protection activities, and development of and compliance with standards

• Assist in synthesis of small molecules for the purpose of creating drug candidates

• Assist in the design and fabrication of experimental apparatus.

• Chemical technicians

• Assist in setting up and conducting chemical experiments, tests and analyses

• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and apparatus and prepare solutions of gas and liquid, reagents and sample formulations

• Compile records for analytical studies

• Assist in developing and conducting programs of sampling and analysis to maintain quality standards

• Carry out a limited range of other technical functions in support of chemical research, tests and analyses, and environmental air and water quality monitoring and protection

• Assist in the design and fabrication of experimental apparatus.

• Chemical technologists usually require completion of a two- or three-year college program in chemical, biochemical or chemical engineering technology or a closely related discipline.

• Chemical technicians usually require completion of a one- or two-year college program in chemical, biochemical or chemical engineering technology.

• National certification for chemical technologists and technicians is available through the Canadian Society for Chemical Technology.

• Considerable mobility is possible among jobs within this occupational group.

• Progression to managerial positions is possible with experience.

• Some chemical technologists and technicians working in support of fundamental research in chemistry or biochemistry are university graduates.