Chemist Jobs in Michigan
Chemist jobs in Michigan are concentrated in the state's robust automotive, pharmaceutical, materials science, and food and beverage manufacturing sectors, with openings at every level from entry-level lab technicians to senior research scientists. The heaviest hiring activity is in the Detroit metro, Grand Rapids, and Midland, where major employers such as Dow, BASF, and Ford Motor Company maintain large research and production operations. Analytical chemistry, polymer chemistry, and quality control are among the most in-demand specialties across Michigan's chemical manufacturing corridor. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Lab Chemist
Overview:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Lab Chemist to join our team, supporting R&D in the development and testing of advanced materials. This role involves hands-on work with adhesive samples in a dynamic laboratory environment and plant environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and apply adhesive to various samples.
- Conduct FTIR measurement on adhesive.
- Conduct adhesion testing to evaluate the strength and durability of bonded samples.
- Accurately document and analyze test results, maintaining a high standard of data integrity.
- Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot and optimize testing methods.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree (BS) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or Biology.
- FTIR, spectroscopy, experience and chemical lab experimentation is a plus.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise procedures.
- Hands-on experience in a laboratory setting is preferred
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Eddy current and capacitance sensing
- Python
- Microsoft office: Excel, word, and PowerPoint
Eligibility Requirements: This position supports a Department of Energy (DOE) project, and is restricted to U.S. citizens based on project-specific eligibility requirements.
No visa sponsorship is available for this position.
Lab Chemist
Overview:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Lab Chemist to join our team, supporting R&D in the development and testing of advanced materials. This role involves hands-on work with adhesive samples in a dynamic laboratory environment and plant environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and apply adhesive to various samples.
- Conduct FTIR measurement on adhesive.
- Conduct adhesion testing to evaluate the strength and durability of bonded samples.
- Accurately document and analyze test results, maintaining a high standard of data integrity.
- Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot and optimize testing methods.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree (BS) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or Biology.
- FTIR, spectroscopy, experience and chemical lab experimentation is a plus.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise procedures.
- Hands-on experience in a laboratory setting is preferred
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Eddy current and capacitance sensing
- Python
- Microsoft office: Excel, word, and PowerPoint
Eligibility Requirements: This position supports a Department of Energy (DOE) project, and is restricted to U.S. citizens based on project-specific eligibility requirements.
No visa sponsorship is available for this position.
See All 15 Chemist Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Chemist JobsChemist Jobs by City in Michigan
Where Michigan roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Chemist Job Market in Michigan
A snapshot from current Michigan openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
What Michigan Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in chemist jobs across Michigan.
- Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related physical science required
- Experience with analytical instrumentation such as GC-MS, HPLC, or NMR spectroscopy preferred
- Familiarity with Michigan manufacturing quality standards and ISO or GMP compliance frameworks
- Strong data analysis skills using laboratory information management systems or statistical software
- Ability to follow chemical safety regulations and OSHA laboratory safety protocols
- Graduate degree or professional certification such as ACS Certified Chemist designation valued for senior roles
Chemist Jobs in Michigan: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a chemist in Michigan?
Michigan does not require a state-issued license to work as a chemist, so the primary path is earning at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a closely related field from an accredited program. Employers in Michigan's automotive and chemical manufacturing sectors, particularly in Midland and the Detroit metro, typically require coursework in analytical or organic chemistry. Professional recognition through the American Chemical Society's certified chemist credential strengthens a candidate's standing with Michigan employers and signals a commitment to the field.
How much do chemists make in Michigan?
Chemists in Michigan earn a median of about $97,440 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $56,260 for the lowest 10% to over $164,200 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire chemists in Michigan?
Employers hiring chemists in Michigan right now include Sika Corporation, PPL Pharma Solutions Riverview, and BBB3, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Michigan's concentration of chemical manufacturers, automotive research divisions, and pharmaceutical companies creates consistent demand for chemists at multiple experience levels.
Which Michigan cities have the most chemist jobs?
Warren, Detroit, and Riverview have the most chemist openings in Michigan. Detroit's metro draws the largest share because of its deep automotive R&D and advanced materials base, while Midland is the longtime home of Dow's global headquarters and drives a disproportionately large number of openings for a city its size, and Grand Rapids benefits from a growing life sciences and food manufacturing cluster that keeps demand steady.
Are there remote chemist jobs in Michigan?
Yes, but they're rare. Most chemistry roles require hands-on laboratory or production floor work that cannot be done remotely. About 0% of chemist openings tied to Michigan are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, which is well below the average for office-based roles. Regulatory affairs, technical writing, and data-focused chemoinformatics positions are the sub-specialties most likely to allow remote or hybrid schedules.
How can I get hired as a chemist in Michigan with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to laboratory technician or quality control associate roles at Michigan's chemical and automotive manufacturing plants, where on-the-job training is common. Large employers such as Dow in Midland and BASF in the Detroit metro regularly hire new graduates into rotational programs or technician roles that provide structured lab experience. Completing an internship or co-op through Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, or Wayne State University significantly improves a new applicant's standing. Earning the ACS student affiliate certification and building a portfolio of undergraduate research projects also gives candidates an edge.
Where can I find and apply to chemist jobs in Michigan?
You can find and apply to chemist jobs in Michigan on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the state. Search the listings for roles that match your specialty and experience level and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 15 Chemist Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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