Chemical tester

Chemical testers are responsible for the rapid on-the-spot analysis of steel test pieces incoming from the metal production shop for the purpose of timely corrections of the chemical composition of the liquid metal.

A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical technology, or a related field is commonly required. Practical experience gained through internships, laboratory work, or entry-level positions in chemical testing is valuable. Strong attention to detail, proficiency in laboratory techniques, and adherence to safety protocols are essential for success as a chemical tester. Continuous learning and staying updated on advancements in analytical techniques contribute to ongoing professional development.

ISCO skill level is defined as a function of the complexity and range of tasks and duties to be performed in an occupation. It is measured on a scale from 1 to 4, with 1 the lowest level and 4 the highest, by considering:

• the nature of the work performed in an occupation in relation to the characteristic tasks and duties
• the level of formal education required for competent performance of the tasks and duties involved and
• the amount of informal on-the-job training and/or previous experience in a related occupation required for competent performance of these tasks and duties.

Chemical tester is a Skill level 4 occupation.

These occupations, although different, require a lot of knowledge and skills similar to chemical tester.

chemical metallurgist
process metallurgist
metallurgist
synthetic materials engineer
metallurgical manager

This knowledge should be acquired through learning to fulfill the role of chemical tester.

• Chemical processes: The relevant chemical processes used in manufacture, such as purification, seperation, emulgation and dispergation processing.
• Quality standards: The national and international requirements, specifications and guidelines to ensure that products, services and processes are of good quality and fit for purpose.

These skills are necessary for the role of chemical tester.

• Manage chemical reagents: Manage the handling, addition, and disposal of chemical reagents used to help separate products from raw minerals.
• Handle chemicals: Safely handle industrial chemicals; use them efficiently and ensure that no harm is done to the environment.
• Report well results: Document and share well results in a transparent way; communicate results to business partners, auditors, collaborating teams and internal management.
• Monitor manufacturing quality standards: Monitor quality standards in the manufacturing and finishing process.
• Ensure public safety and security: Implement the relevant procedures, strategies and use the proper equipment to promote local or national security activities for the protection of data, people, institutions, and property.
• Work in metal manufacture teams: Ability to work confidently within a metal manufacturing group with each doing a part but all subordinating personal prominence to the efficiency of the whole.
• Work safely with chemicals: Take the necessary precautions for storing, using and disposing chemical products.
• Prepare technical reports: Prepare technical reports that describe results and processes of scientific or technical research, or assess its progress. These reports help researchers to keep up to date with recent findings.
• Conduct chemical testing on basic metals: Perform examinations and tests on all kinds of metals in order to ensure high quality and chemical resistance.

This knowledge is sometimes, but not always, required for the role of chemical tester. However, mastering this knowledge allows you to have more opportunities for career development.

• Chemical technologies in metal manufacture: The chemical procedures and technologies used  in basic metal production.
• Physics: The natural science involving the study of matter, motion, energy, force and related notions.
• Types of metal manufacturing processes: Metal processes linked to the different types of metal, such as casting processes, heat treatment processes, repair processes and other metal manufacturing processes.

These skills and competences are sometimes, but not always, required for the role of chemical tester. However, mastering these skills and competences allows you to have more opportunities for career development.

• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation: Monitor activities and perform tasks ensuring compliance with standards involving environmental protection and sustainability, and amend activities in the case of changes in environmental legislation. Ensure that the processes are compliant with environmental regulations and best practices.
• Use a computer: Utilise computer equipment or digital devices to facilitate quality control, data management, and communication. Follow instructions given by a computer programme, create computer files or documents.
• Give instructions to staff: Give instructions to subordinates by employing various communication techniques. Adjust communication style to the target audience in order to convey instructions as intended.
• Conduct laboratory chemical research on metals: Perform all laboratory chemical quality control tests for basic metals under national and international standards, applying methods of preparing samples and procedures for doing the tests. Analyse and interpret test results.
• Speak different languages: Master foreign languages to be able to communicate in one or more foreign languages.
• Execute analytical mathematical calculations: Apply mathematical methods and make use of calculation technologies in order to perform analyses and devise solutions to specific problems.
• Use different communication channels: Make use of various types of communication channels such as verbal, handwritten, digital and telephonic communication with the purpose of constructing and sharing ideas or information.
• Think analytically: Produce thoughts using logic and reasoning in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Train staff in safety procedures: Educate and train team members in the safety procedures relevant to the mission of the team.
• Train staff in quality procedures: Educate and train team members in the quality procedures related to the mission of the team.
• Assess suitability of metal types for specific application: Assess the physical nature and structural composition of various metals and alloys, and analyse how the materials behave in different circumstances.
• Perform planning: Manage one’s time schedule and resources in order to finish tasks in a timely manner.

2113 – Chemists

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References

1. Chemical tester – ESCO
2. Featured image: Photo by Pixabay