Chemistry – Career Planet

Chemist

eadmin — Tue, 02 Oct 2018 19:44:13 +0000

Chemists search for and put into practical use knowledge about substances. They may work in research and development (where the properties and composition of matter and the laws that govern the combination of elements are investigated). Chemists use their knowledge and research findings to help create or improve products. They may be involved with the production process such as specifying the kind and amount of ingredients to be used and the mixing time for each stage in the process). In the inspection area, chemists test samples to be sure industry and government standards are met. Some chemists may work in the fields of education, consultation and technical journalism.

Job tasks: Prepare test solutions, compounds, and reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct test. Analyse organic and inorganic compounds to determine chemical and physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, and reactions, utilizing chromatography, spectroscopy, and spectrophotometry techniques. Develop, improve, and customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, and analytical methods. Compile and analyse test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency and to diagnose malfunctions. Confer with scientists and engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop non-standard tests. Direct, coordinate, and advise personnel in test procedures for analysing components and physical properties of materials. Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, and chemical catalysts for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Write technical papers and reports; and prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, and tests. Study effects of various methods of processing, preserving, and packaging on composition and properties of foods.

Where to study:

Universities: NMMU, UL

Universities of Technology: CPUT

Companies to work for:

Chemical or manufacturing industries, educational institutions, research institutions

Organic Chemist

eadmin — Tue, 02 Oct 2018 19:42:15 +0000

Organic chemists are scientists who study the structure, make-up, contents, chemical reactions and combinations of organic compounds. An organic compound is made up of combinations of carbon and hydrogen and can contain other substances such as nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus and sulphur. Organic chemists work with these compounds whose substances come mainly from animals and plants. They research these compounds and then develop and produce commercial products such as medical drugs, plastics, elastomers (similar to rubber) and fertilisers. As part of developing new products, organic chemists prepare instructions for production plant operators to produce their new product. These instructions include details on ingredients required, mixing times and stipulate the temperature at which the various stages of production must be completed. Organic chemists also test samples of raw materials and monitor the production process. They test samples of the final product to ensure that the industry and production quality standards are met. All test results are documented and used in further research to improve existing products or develop new ones.

Where to study:

Universities: NMMU, SUN, UL, UZulu, RU, Unisa

Universities of Technology: CPUT

Companies to work for:

Chemical and industrial manufacturing industries, pharmaceutical industry, educational institutions, research and development laboratories, self – employed

Chemical Technologist

eadmin — Tue, 02 Oct 2018 19:42:14 +0000

OFO No: 311101

Other names for Chemical Technologist:

Chemical Instrumentation Officer
Chemical Laboratory Technician / Analyst
Chemical Manufacturing Technician
Chemical Process Analyst
Chemical Technician (Food)
Chemistry Technical Officer (Fuel, Gas, Leather)
Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Paint Maker

What is a Chemical Technologist?

A Chemical Technologist usually works in a laboratory. They support chemists and chemical engineers.

Areas that Chemical Technologists can work:

paint
plastics
textiles
detergents
cosmetics & perfumes
pharmaceuticals (medicines)
metals
fuels
paper
fertilisers etc

What does a Chemical Technologist do?

collects samples
performs tests in a laboratory
assists with chemical research
controls laboratory supplies and quantities
maintains instruments and equipment
prepares materials for experiments
keeps laboratory neat and tidy
follows strict safety regulations

Are you . . . ?

interested in chemistry?
observant?
safety conscious?
methodical?
detail orientated?
a team player?
a perfectionist?

How do I become a Chemical Technologist?

The best way to become a Chemical Technologist is to do a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry.

This can be done at most universities of technology, for instance:

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
University of Johannesburg

Check with you local institution to see what they offer.

TRAINING:

CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Electrical Engineer or Environmental Engineer

Is becoming a Chemical Technologist the right choice for me?

Chemical Analyst

eadmin — Tue, 02 Oct 2018 19:42:14 +0000

Chemical analysts are responsible for finding out what matter is and how much of it exists. They research and analyse samples of solids, liquids and gases to determine the composition, properties, physical and chemical changes and combination of a substance. They work with different methods of analysis and through these methods they obtain information about a sample of matter. Chemical analysts perform functions such as validating and verifying the results of their analysis. They develop new methods of measuring matter, do laboratory research, develop processes and products, design instruments used for analytical analysis, interpret data compiled from their analysis and record and communicate their findings. They use their measuring and analysing methods to help solve problems in various industries such as assuring compliance with environmental and other regulations, assuring the safety and quality of food, pharmaceuticals and water in an effort to help specialists diagnose diseases and to provide assistance to trade and commerce. They can also assist in legal processes, where their expertise is required in a court case. The chemical analysis industry also uses the technology of robots and instrumentation to help prepare and analyse samples. Chemical analysts can specialise in a certain field, as there are many aspects to this career. They can also teach in secondary educational institutions as well as research facilities. Chemical analysts can also work as quality assurance specialists or as sales and marketing chemists to sell instrumentation and apparatuses.

Where to study:

Universities: NMMU, SUN, UL, UFS, UKZN,

Universities of Technology: CPUT, VUT

Companies to work for:

· mining and pharmaceutical, environmental research, agriculture, chemical manufacturing, cosmetic, petroleum, food and processing companies;

· educational institutions; research facilities; government departments; private and public sector; medical laboratories