2111 — Chemical scientists

Higher Skilled

Sources checked 26 October 2026. Match the actual duties before choosing a code.

Related job titles

What this occupation covers

Chemical scientists analyse and research physical aspects of chemical structure and change within substances and develop chemical techniques used in the manufacture or modification of natural substances and processed products.

Typical duties


develops experimental procedures, instruments and recording and testing systems

operates specialised scientific equipment and conducts experiments to identify chemical composition, energy and chemical changes in natural substances and processed materials

analyses results and experimental data

tests techniques and processes for reliability under a variety of conditions

develops procedures for quality control of manufactured products

Entry routes and qualifications

Entrants usually possess a degree. Entry may also be possible with an appropriate BTEC/SQA award, an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ level III, or other academic qualifications. Further specialist training is provided on the job. Some employers may expect entrants to gain professional qualifications.

Sponsorship information

Higher Skilled. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.

Immigration Salary List: 2111 Chemical scientists – only jobs in the nuclear industry. Nations: Scotland. Removal: 31 December 2026.

Full Table 1 going rate: £39,900 at 37.5 hours. The applicable salary requirement can differ: use the calculator.

DBS assessment

No code-wide DBS assessment is assigned. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.

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ONS SOC 2020 · Appendix Skilled Occupations