The number of jobs available in specialty chemicals varies greatly depending on the industry, geographic location and company. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists nearly 200,000 jobs in the "Chemical Processing and Related Occupations" category, with further sub-categories breaking down into fields like materials engineering, process technicians and chemists.
On a global scale, the research and consulting firm MarketsandMarkets forecasts a $541.4 billion global specialty chemicals market by 2024, a 7.7% compound annual growth rate from 2019. This means a significant increase potential in jobs related to the production and distribution of specialty chemicals.
In addition to these production positions, research and development of specialty chemicals often require a degree in chemistry or a related field, creating more positions requiring higher levels of education and expertise. These positions may include research scientists, development engineers and field applications scientists. Sales and marketing positions also support the specialty chemicals industry, as do jobs in management, finance and other support roles.
Overall, the specialty chemicals sector is always growing due to new innovations in the development of materials and processes, making it an excellent choice for skilled individuals interested in a long-term career in the industry.