Chemical Technicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 55,640 chemical technicians, and they earn a median of $57,790/year. The range runs from $39K to $91K. Louisiana pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level chemical technicians start around $39K. The gap between that and the median ($58K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $91K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $83K | 950 |
| Delaware | $65K | 600 |
| Massachusetts | $65K | 2,200 |
| Texas | $65K | 6,510 |
| Oklahoma | $64K | 770 |
| West Virginia | $64K | 240 |
| Arizona | $63K | 470 |
| New Mexico | $63K | 100 |
| Illinois | $62K | 1,410 |
| Alaska | $61K | 150 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a chemical technicians make?▼
The median chemical technicians salary in the United States is $57,790 per year ($28/hour). Entry-level positions start around $39,030, while experienced professionals earn up to $90,990.
What education do you need to become a chemical technicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for chemical technicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for chemical technicians.
What are the highest paying states for chemical technicians?▼
The highest paying states for chemical technicians are Louisiana ($83,480), Delaware ($64,930), Massachusetts ($64,920), Texas ($64,520), Oklahoma ($63,880). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.