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Catalyst Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inductive Bio

Medicinal Chemist

New York, NY · On-site

$210K - $250K/yr

Inductive Bio is an AI medicinal chemistry partner .We build virtual labs that help drug discovery ... 21M ARPA-H CATALYST award to develop next-generation toxicity models. We are seeking an ...

VALTO Inc

Chemist

Channahon, IL · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Need thorough understanding of materials (catalyst, promoter, resin, monomer, pigments, and fillers ... Bachelor of Engineering or Science (Chemistry, Biology, or Physics) or associate's degree or ...

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How much do catalyst chemistry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for catalyst chemistry in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid chemist job?

In catalyst chemistry, senior roles such as research directors or principal scientists often have the highest salaries, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in process development, with salaries reaching six figures or more annually.

What is catalyst chemistry?

Catalyst chemistry is the branch of chemistry that focuses on the study and application of catalysts—substances that increase the rate of chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. This field explores how catalysts work, how they can be designed or improved, and their roles in industrial processes, environmental protection, and energy production. Catalyst chemistry is essential in developing efficient manufacturing processes for chemicals, fuels, and pharmaceuticals, and it plays a vital role in sustainable and green chemistry initiatives.

What are some common challenges faced by chemists working in catalyst chemistry, and how can they be addressed?

Chemists in catalyst chemistry often encounter challenges such as optimizing catalyst performance, scaling up reactions from the lab to industrial settings, and ensuring reproducibility of results. These tasks require a strong understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of catalysis, as well as close collaboration with chemical engineers and process development teams. Addressing these challenges often involves staying current with the latest research, leveraging advanced analytical techniques, and participating in interdisciplinary problem-solving sessions to develop innovative and efficient catalytic processes.

What is the difference between Catalyst Chemistry vs Chemical Engineering?

AspectCatalyst ChemistryChemical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields; specialization in catalysis often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering; focus on process design and optimization
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, industrial laboratoriesManufacturing plants, process design facilities, industrial settings
Industry UsageDeveloping and testing catalysts, research, and developmentDesigning chemical processes, plant operations, and process optimization

While Catalyst Chemistry focuses on developing and understanding catalysts at a molecular level, Chemical Engineering involves designing and managing chemical processes and plants. Both roles require strong chemistry knowledge, but Catalyst Chemists are more research-oriented, whereas Chemical Engineers focus on process implementation and scale-up.

Can chemists make 6 figures?

Catalyst chemists and other chemistry professionals can earn six-figure salaries, especially with advanced degrees, specialized skills, and experience in industries like pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, or research and development. Salary levels vary based on location, employer, and expertise, with senior roles and those requiring certifications often commanding higher pay.

What are the top 5 chemistry careers?

Catalyst chemists often pursue careers in research and development, working in industries such as pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and environmental science. Common roles include chemical researcher, process engineer, quality control analyst, laboratory manager, and regulatory affairs specialist. These careers typically require strong analytical skills, knowledge of chemical processes, and relevant degrees or certifications.

What does a catalyst do in chemistry?

A catalyst in chemistry is a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. Catalyst chemists often work with reaction mechanisms, laboratory equipment, and safety protocols to develop and optimize catalytic processes for industrial applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Catalyst Chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Catalyst Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry, particularly in catalysis, reaction mechanisms, and analytical techniques, usually supported by an advanced degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as gas chromatography, spectroscopy, and computational modeling software is essential, and certifications in lab safety or specialized analytical methods can be valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing efficient catalysts, ensuring accurate experimental results, and collaborating on innovative solutions in research and industry.
More about Catalyst Chemistry jobs
What cities are hiring for Catalyst Chemistry jobs? Cities with the most Catalyst Chemistry job openings:
What states have the most Catalyst Chemistry jobs? States with the most job openings for Catalyst Chemistry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Catalyst Chemistry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Catalyst Chemistry jobs are:
Catalyst Chemistry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Catalyst Chemistry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,292 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow - Photo Chemistry

Indiana University Academic Positions

Kokomo, IN • Hybrid

$50K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Title Postdoctoral Fellow - Photo Chemistry Appointment Status Non-Tenure Track Department IU Bloomington Chemistry Location Bloomington Position Summary
The Department of Chemistry in the College of Arts + Sciences at Indiana University, consists of a well-rounded research community with cutting-edge expertise in a wide variety of modern disciplines including analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, and biochemistry.
The Zaleski Lab in the Department of Chemistry at Indiana University is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research position. The position involves the design and synthesis of hybrid molecular and nanomaterial catalysts (see here for recent work: ACS Appl. Bio. Mater.https://doi.org/10.1021/acsabm.6c00169; Chem. Sci. 2025, 16, 255; ACS Catal. 2020, 10, 5, 3349-3359, Accts. Chem. Res. 2019, 52, 1957. The desired start date is July 1, 2026, although this is flexible in order to accommodate the needs of outstanding candidates.
The successful applicant will use a deep understanding of synthetic and photochemical transformations including laser characterization methods. Motivated applicants with a Ph.D. in any area of chemistry will be considered. A candidate with a strong background in catalyst synthesis and materials design is ideally suited for the project. We seek to employ someone with demonstrable experience materials characterization, photochemistry and spectroscopy.
The Zaleski Lab is a dynamic multidisciplinary laboratory environment. The successful applicant will play an integral role within our growing team and will emerge with a skill set that is equally relevant to academia and industry. Trainees receive regular guidance and feedback to ensure progress is made toward their career goals, whatever those may be. Trainees are also afforded the scheduling flexibility needed to maintain an appropriate work life balance and a safe laboratory environment.
Responsibilities:

1. Manage own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small scale project management and coordinating multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines.
2. Adapt existing, and develop new, scientific techniques and experimental protocols to achieve research objectives.
3. Use specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment.
4. Assist in setting up a new research laboratory at IU (e.g. setting up Schlenk lines, ordering equipment etc.)
5. Contribute ideas for new research projects.
6. Undertake comprehensive and systematic literature reviews and write up the results for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
7. Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters.
8. Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques.
9. Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone.
10. Carry out collaborative projects with colleagues in partner institutions, and research groups.
Basic Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Chemistry at time of appointment.
Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with organometallic synthesis and relevant analytical techniques (NMR, SXRD, mass-spectrometry etc.) is essential. The preferred candidate will have a deep understanding of the chemistry of the main group elements.
Department Contact for Questions
Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to: Prof. Jeff Zaleski, Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, zaleski@indiana.edu.
Additional Qualifications Salary and Rank $50,000/Postdoctoral Fellow Special Instructions
The initial appointment for this position will be for 12 months. Additional 12-month extension will be available based on performance. A competitive salary along with a benefits package will be offered.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, 5-page maximum research proposal, and contact information for three references to http://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/33331. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.
"Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information.

For Best Consideration Date 06/10/2026 Expected Start Date 07/01/2026 Posting Number IU-101573-2026

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