Working as a Chemist
Industry Overview
Chemistry fuels the Canadian economy. Canada’s $64-billion chemistry industry transforms raw materials into the building blocks needed to manufacture the 70,000 products that ensure our quality of life. From wind turbines and solar panels, to vehicles and electronics, to textiles, building materials, paper and pharmaceuticals, chemistry is vital to the Canadian economy.
Chemistry is directly responsible for 78,500 jobs and is the 3rd largest manufacturing sector in Canada.
Source: Chemistry Association of Canada CIAC
Job Outlook in BC - Chemists
Chart from WorkBC
There are currently 1,200 people working as Chemists in BC.
Most are employed in the Mainland / Southwest and Vancouver Island / Coast regions of the province.
Employment growth, 2022-2032:
You can learn more about working as a chemist in BC from:
Types of Employers
Chemists are employed in:
- research, development, and quality control laboratories
- chemical, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical industries
- mineral, metal, and pulp and paper industries
- manufacturing, utility, health, educational, and government establishments.
Salary & Working Hours
In BC, the median annual salary for chemists is $70,180. The provincial hourly rate ranges from $25.00 to $76.00.
Some large drug companies pay very high salaries to chemists who have specialized skills that are in high demand, such as those involved in cancer drug research. Full-time chemists generally receive benefits in addition to a salary. These may include dental coverage, paid vacation and sick days, and contributions to a retirement plan.
Source: WorkBC and Career Cruising
In BC regions, you can expect to earn:
Source: Job Bank Canada
Working Hours
Most chemists have regular work hours and work a 5-day, 40-hour week. Longer hours may sometimes be necessary to complete important projects and research before a deadline.
Source: Career Cruising