Usda Chemist information
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$17.31 - $20.54
7% of jobs
$20.54 - $23.78
16% of jobs
$24.02 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$23.78 - $27.01
21% of jobs
The median wage is $28.02 / hr.
$27.01 - $30.24
17% of jobs
$30.24 - $33.48
13% of jobs
$33.68 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$33.48 - $36.71
9% of jobs
$36.71 - $39.95
7% of jobs
$39.95 - $43.18
4% of jobs
$43.18 - $46.42
2% of jobs
$46.42 - $49.65
2% of jobs
$49.65 - $52.88
1% of jobs
How much do usda chemist jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for usda chemist in the United States is $30.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A USDA Chemist is a scientist who works for the United States Department of Agriculture, conducting research and analysis related to agriculture, food safety, and the environment. Their work may involve testing food products for contaminants, developing methods to improve food quality, and supporting regulatory standards. USDA Chemists play a critical role in ensuring the safety and quality of the nation’s food supply, often collaborating with other scientists and regulatory agencies.
As a USDA Chemist, you could be involved in projects such as analyzing pesticide residues in food, developing methods for detecting contaminants, or researching the nutritional content of agricultural products. These projects are critical for ensuring the safety and quality of the nation's food supply, supporting regulatory compliance, and advancing scientific understanding in agriculture. Your work often directly informs policy decisions and helps protect public health, while also supporting the agricultural industry. Collaboration with other scientists, regulatory agencies, and industry partners is common, providing opportunities to work on interdisciplinary teams and contribute to impactful research.
To thrive as a USDA Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry, analytical techniques, and a degree in chemistry or a related scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as HPLC, GC-MS, and LIMS, as well as knowledge of regulatory standards like EPA and USDA guidelines, is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for analyzing complex data and collaborating with research teams. These skills ensure accurate scientific analysis, compliance with regulatory standards, and meaningful contributions to agricultural research and food safety.
What are popular job titles related to Usda Chemist jobs?
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