Chemists (Officer)
Opportunities
Chemists conduct and advise on research having military and/or medical application, such as protection of personnel from chemical, biological, and radiological agents; development, handling, and use of improved petroleum and synthetic fuels and lubricants; and, purification and control of atmosphere, as on nuclear submarines. Chemists also perform experiments; devise instrumentation and techniques to record and collect test results; correlate and analyze data compiled in research; and, brief results.
Training Provided
Job training for chemists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments.
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
Earnings
Officers in the military can progress through ten officer pay grades during their careers. Pay grade and length of service determine an officer's pay. Most newly commissioned officers begin at pay grade O-1 ($3826/month basic pay in 2024). With certain professional qualifications, officers may enter at a higher pay grade. After two years, officers generally move up to O-2 ($5021/month basic pay in 2024). After an additional two years, the military generally promotes officers to O-3 ($6806/month basic pay in 2024) if job performance and other requirements are met. Cost-of-living increases usually occur once a year. Many officers and their families live free of charge in military housing on the base where they are assigned. Those living off base receive a housing allowance in addition to their basic pay. Officers also receive a monthly food allowance. These allowances, and associated tax savings, are substantial additions to basic pay. Other employment benefits for military officers include free health care, 30 days paid vacation each year, legal assistance, education assistance, military store privileges, and an excellent retirement program.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Navy