Science & Research
Chemist
You work with molecules, medicines, fuels, food, cosmetics and materials.
- Starting salary
- R18 000 – R32 000
- Job demand
- Steady demand
- Key subjects
- Mathematics, Physical Sciences
What do they do?
You work with molecules, medicines, fuels, food, cosmetics and materials.
A day in the life
You run experiments, test product quality, document results and develop new formulations.
Skills you need
- Precision
- Chemistry
- Safety
- Analysis
School subjects that help
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 3–6 years of study, plus practical experience.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2BSc Chemistry
- 3Honours / industry entry
- 4Chemist
Ways in: University degree · University of Technology. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Cape Town
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- North-West University
- Tshwane University of Technology
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R18 000 – R32 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R35 000 – R60 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R65 000 – R120 000+
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Do safe home experiments
- • Understand every practical you do at school
- • Read about materials
Try this career
Test which household liquid cleans a dirty coin best, and write up why.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.