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Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to the chemical and physical properties and compositional changes of substances. Work may include providing instruction in the methods of qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

SOC: 25-1052.00

Common Job Titles

Assistant ProfessorChemistry InstructorChemistry ProfessorProfessor

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeDesign chemistry curriculum and course materials integrating qualitative and quantitative analysis methods for undergraduate and graduate instruction in postsecondary settings.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate student research proposals and experimental designs independently, applying advanced knowledge of chemical principles and research methodology.
  • MindsetModel scientific inquiry and ethical research practices in classroom, laboratory, and mentorship interactions with undergraduate and graduate students.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize emerging research findings across chemistry subdisciplines into instructional content to maintain currency in rapidly evolving fields such as materials chemistry and biochemistry.
  • KnowledgeFormulate original research questions and experimental protocols in specialized chemistry areas for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at professional conferences.
  • KnowledgeInterpret complex chemical phenomena and spectroscopic data for diverse student audiences using visual aids and interactive technologies.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of advanced analytical instrumentation including NMR spectrometers, mass spectrometers, and HPLC systems during laboratory instruction and student training sessions.
  • KnowledgeAssess student learning outcomes and competency development using formative and summative evaluation methods aligned with institutional and program standards.
  • MindsetIntegrate pedagogical best practices with disciplinary expertise to foster inclusive learning environments that accommodate diverse learner needs and backgrounds.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze quantitative chemical data using statistical methods and computational tools to guide student interpretation of experimental results and troubleshoot laboratory procedures.
  • MindsetAdvocate for laboratory safety protocols and responsible chemical handling practices ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory standards in all instructional activities.
  • KnowledgeDevelop collaborative research partnerships with interdisciplinary teams leveraging expertise in chemistry to address complex scientific problems spanning biology, physics, and engineering.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

20,390

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$52,870
10% of workers earn the following or more$171,600
Workers on average earn$103,030

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Chemistry4.8/5
  • English Language4.5/5
  • Mathematics4.5/5
  • Education and Training4.5/5
  • Biology3.6/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Google DocsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

Auto3DEMBlackboard LearnCCP4Calendar and scheduling softwareCollaborative editing softwareCourse management system softwareDOC CopDesire2Learn LMS software

Tools & Equipment

Atomic absorption AA spectrophotometersAtomic emission spectroscopesAutomated polarimetersBenchtop muffle furnacesBenchtop orbital shakersBenchtop ultracentrifugesCapillary electrophoresis systemsCarousel slide projectors