Environmental Chemist in Ohio Career Overview

As an Environmental Chemist, you play a vital role in understanding and mitigating the impacts of chemicals on the environment and public health. Your work encompasses the study of chemical processes in nature, analyzing environmental samples, and investigating pollutants.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Research and Analysis: You engage in laboratory and field studies to assess the presence and concentration of harmful substances in air, water, and soil. Your findings contribute to developing methods for pollution control and resource management.

  • Environmental Protection: With an emphasis on sustainability, you contribute to environmental conservation efforts by providing data that informs regulations and guidelines. Your work aids in identifying safe practices and alternatives to hazardous chemicals.

  • Collaboration: You frequently work alongside other scientists, policymakers, and engineers, translating complex chemical data into actionable insights. Your expertise assists in creating policies aimed at improving environmental health and safety.

  • Problem-Solving: You apply your knowledge to tackle real-world environmental challenges. Whether it’s addressing contamination issues or evaluating the impact of new industrial processes, your analytical skills are fundamental.

  • Public Awareness: By communicating your findings to non-specialists, you help raise awareness about chemical risks and promote practices that protect human health and ecosystems.

In summary, your role as an Environmental Chemist is integral to ensuring a safe and sustainable environment, making a meaningful impact on both local and global scales.

Environmental Chemist Salary in Ohio

Annual Median: $82,070
Hourly Median: $39.46

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Environmental Chemist in Ohio

To pursue a career as an Environmental Chemist, you will need to obtain specific educational qualifications. Below are the relevant college degree programs that can prepare you for this field:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Analytical Chemistry: This program provides foundational knowledge in quantitative and qualitative chemical analysis methods, equipping you to work with various materials in environmental settings.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Chemistry: Focused on the chemical processes occurring in the environment, this degree will help you understand the interactions between pollutants and natural systems.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Engineering Technology: This program blends engineering principles with environmental science, preparing you to develop solutions for environmental challenges through the application of chemical knowledge.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science: A broad program that covers biological, chemical, and physical science principles, providing insights into how various factors affect the environment, including chemical pollutants.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Toxicology: This program focuses on the study of how chemical substances affect living organisms and ecosystems, essential for assessing environmental risks.

Further education, such as a Master's or Doctorate degree in any of the above fields, may be beneficial and sometimes necessary for advanced positions or specialized areas within environmental chemistry. Additionally, hands-on training through internships or laboratory experience is valuable for applying theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

Best Schools to become a Environmental Chemist in Ohio 2024

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

American Public University System

Charles Town, WV

In-State Tuition:$6,840
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,840
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:48,668

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR

In-State Tuition:$10,425
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,200
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:34,292

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH

In-State Tuition:$11,525
Out-of-State Tuition:$35,782
Admission Rate:53%
Graduation Rate:88%
Total Enrollment:60,540

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,559
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,473
Admission Rate:44%
Graduation Rate:74%
Total Enrollment:49,600

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA

In-State Tuition:$11,189
Out-of-State Tuition:$39,687
Admission Rate:48%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:52,319
Environmental Chemist Job Description:
  • Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.

Environmental Chemist Required Skills and Competencies in Ohio

  • Analytical Skills: You must be adept at analyzing complex data and understanding chemical compositions, which is essential for evaluating environmental samples.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You need to approach challenges methodically to develop innovative solutions for environmental issues, including pollution control and remediation processes.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with laboratory equipment and techniques is necessary. Skills in using analytical instruments like mass spectrometers, gas chromatography, and spectroscopy are vital.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision in conducting experiments and documenting findings is critical, as even minor errors can lead to significant repercussions in environmental assessments.

  • Knowledge of Environmental Regulations: Understanding local, state, and federal environmental laws and regulations will help ensure compliance and inform your projects.

  • Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for presenting findings, preparing reports, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

  • Research Skills: You should possess the ability to conduct thorough literature reviews and apply findings to your work, staying updated with the latest developments in environmental chemistry.

  • Fieldwork Skills: Experience in collecting samples and conducting experiments in various field conditions will enhance your practical understanding of real-world environmental challenges.

  • Project Management Skills: You should be capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, organizing tasks, and meeting deadlines effectively.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Collaboration with other scientists, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies is essential, necessitating the ability to work well in team environments.

Job Duties for Environmental Chemists

  • Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.

  • Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods.

  • Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.

Technologies and Skills Used by Environmental Chemists

Analytical or scientific software

  • Minitab
  • Waters Empower Chromatography Data Software

Data base user interface and query software

  • Microsoft Access
  • Structured query language SQL

Presentation software

  • Apple iWork Keynote
  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Environmental Chemist in Ohio

The job market for Environmental Chemists in Ohio is evolving, influenced by a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental protection. Here are important considerations regarding demand, growth potential, and regional opportunities within the state:

  • Demand: The demand for Environmental Chemists is driven by increasing regulatory standards and public awareness of environmental issues. Industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and energy production are seeking professionals to help mitigate pollution and manage waste responsibly.

  • Growth Potential: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a favorable growth rate for environmental science and protection technicians. As environmental policies become more stringent, the need for specialists who can analyze and develop solutions for chemical pollutants and environmental hazards is expected to rise.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Cleveland: This urban center is home to a variety of industries that prioritize environmental compliance and sustainability. Organizations in manufacturing, healthcare, and research are frequently in need of environmental chemists.
    • Columbus: As one of the fastest-growing cities in Ohio, Columbus has numerous businesses and government agencies focusing on environmental quality and sustainable practices. The presence of research institutions offers additional opportunities.
    • Cincinnati: Cincinnati's rich industrial base, including chemical manufacturing and waste management companies, creates a robust job market for environmental chemists. The city is also noted for its commitment to sustainability initiatives.
    • Toledo: Known for its manufacturing and healthcare sectors, Toledo presents opportunities, particularly in dealing with hazardous materials and implementing safe disposal techniques.
    • Dayton: With a focus on research and development, particularly in materials science, Dayton offers positions in both private industry and government agencies focused on environmental impact assessments and remediation.
  • Industry Sectors:

    • Government Agencies: Local, state, and federal agencies require Environmental Chemists for regulatory compliance, monitoring, and research.
    • Consulting Firms: Environmental consulting companies are consistently on the lookout for skilled chemists who can assist with assessments and solutions for contaminated sites.
    • Non-Profit Organizations: These organizations often seek Environmental Chemists to support initiatives aimed at conservation and environmental advocacy.

By staying informed about these trends and opportunities, you can position yourself to seize a variety of roles in this promising and impactful field within Ohio's job market.

Top Related Careers to Environmental Chemist 2024

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Environmental Chemist in Ohio

  • American Chemical Society (ACS)

    • Website: www.acs.org
    • Offers resources including publications, educational materials, and networking opportunities specifically tailored for chemical professionals.
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

    • Website: www.epa.gov
    • Provides extensive information on environmental regulations, research, and guidelines relevant to environmental chemistry.
  • Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA)

    • Website: www.epa.ohio.gov
    • Features information on Ohio-specific environmental laws, resources, and research initiatives that can be beneficial for local environmental chemists.
  • Society of Environmental Engineers (SEE)

    • Website: www.see.memberlodge.com
    • Offers technical resources, conferences, and publications focused on environmental engineering and related chemical practices.
  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

    • Website: www.noaa.gov
    • Provides research data and publications on environmental science, including chemistry-related topics impacting air and water quality.
  • The Association of Ohio Environmental Professionals (AOEP)

    • Website: www.aoep.org
    • A professional network offering resources for local environmental professionals, including job postings, conferences, and training.
  • American Society for Quality (ASQ)

    • Website: asq.org
    • Provides resources on quality control and environmental testing methods that can enhance your skills as an environmental chemist.
  • Google Scholar

    • Website: scholar.google.com
    • An excellent tool for finding scholarly articles and research papers that can deepen your knowledge in environmental chemistry.
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH) - PubChem

    • Website: pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
    • A database for chemical information that can be useful for research concerning the environmental impact of various substances.
  • Journal of Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology

    • Website: www.hindawi.com/journals/ject
    • A peer-reviewed journal focusing on environmental chemistry, providing access to current research, reviews, and case studies in the field.

Utilizing these resources will provide you with valuable knowledge and networking opportunities essential for building a successful career as an environmental chemist in Ohio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Environmental Chemist in Ohio

  • What education do I need to become an Environmental Chemist in Ohio?
    Most Environmental Chemists hold at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, environmental science, or a related field. Advanced positions may require a master’s or doctorate degree.

  • What skills are important for an Environmental Chemist?
    Key skills include analytical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, strong mathematics abilities, and proficiency with laboratory equipment. Communication skills are also important for conveying research findings to non-specialists.

  • What kind of work environment can I expect?
    Environmental Chemists typically work in laboratories, but may also spend time in the field collecting samples. Workplaces can include government agencies, consulting firms, and research institutions.

  • What are the primary duties of an Environmental Chemist?
    You will analyze environmental samples for pollutants, develop methods for pollutant detection and remediation, conduct research on chemical interactions in the environment, and prepare reports and presentations based on your findings.

  • Is certification required to work as an Environmental Chemist?
    While certification is not mandatory, obtaining credentials such as the Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) can enhance your prospects and credibility in the field.

  • What industries employ Environmental Chemists in Ohio?
    Common industries include government (in environmental agencies), private sector companies (in environmental consulting), academia, and research institutions.

  • What is the job outlook for Environmental Chemists in Ohio?
    The job outlook is positive, with increasing demand driven by environmental regulations and the need for sustainable practices. The focus on climate change and pollution control contributes to this demand.

  • What is the average salary for an Environmental Chemist in Ohio?
    Salaries can vary based on experience and location, but as of early 2023, the average salary for an Environmental Chemist in Ohio ranges from $55,000 to $80,000 per year.

  • Can I work in this field with a degree in a different scientific discipline?
    Yes, degrees in related fields such as biology, environmental science, or chemical engineering may be suitable, especially if you have relevant coursework in chemistry.

  • Are there opportunities for career advancement as an Environmental Chemist?
    Yes, with experience and possibly additional education, you can advance to senior research positions, managerial roles, or specialized areas such as regulatory affairs or environmental policy.