Saint Paul College Programs

Chemical Technology

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Chemical Laboratory Technician AAS Degree Program Guide Sheet

Program Overview

Chemical technicians work with chemists and chemical engineers, developing and using chemicals and related products and equipment. Generally, there are two types of chemical technicians: those who work in experimental laboratories and process control technicians, who work in manufacturing or other industrial plants. Many research and development chemical technicians conduct a variety of laboratory procedures, from routine process control to complex research projects. Much of their work involves measuring properties of materials used and produced in chemical reactions.

Chemical technicians play a critical role in all aspects of the chemical process industry, and they are highly skilled scientific professionals with increasing responsibility. Chemical laboratory technicians work with their hands, think analytically, pay attention to details, solve problems, and communicate with their colleagues, both orally and in writing. They operate laboratory equipment, set up apparatus for chemical reactions, conduct experiments, handle materials, prepare compounds, collect samples, and conduct analysis.

Program Requirements:
• Chemical Laboratory Technician AAS Degree

What You'll Learn

• Chemical and instrumental analysis, including electrochemistry, chromatography, extraction, and electrophoresis methodology, to evaluate chemical and physical properties of materials
• Chemical theory that supports proper laboratory methods and how to design and conduct experiments
• Proper preparation and handling of samples, gravimetric methods, titrations, and electrochemical methods
• Operating principles, instrument calibration, sample preparation, sample analysis, data interpretation, and reporting and evaluating results
• How to effectively research chemical information using databases and technical literature
• Accurate methods for reporting and interpreting chemical data and how to communicate information effectively in verbal and written technical reports
• How to conduct safe laboratory operations in accordance with current good laboratory practices and federal, state and local environmental rules and regulations

Career Settings

• Manufacturing: conducting a variety of laboratory procedures, from routine process control to complex research projects.
• Analytical: performing chemical and instrumental analysis to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate chemical and physical properties of materials.
• Packaging: testing packaging for design, integrity of materials, and environmental acceptability
• Process: providing quality assurance in manufacturing plants.
• Shipping: using expertise for upholding safety regulations and issues

Potential Employers

• 3M Company
• Cargill, Inc.
• General Mills, Inc
• Gillette Company
• H.B. Fuller Company
• Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES)
• Minnesota Department of Agriculture
• Pace Analytical Services, Inc.
• Paddock Laboratories, Inc.

Additional Benefits

• Experience the use of chemical technology in industry through an internship
• Plan a career path as a chemical technician through good knowledge of a range of industries and opportunities