Science in Petroleum Chemistry - Job Description

Oil chemists work for large oil companies and suppliers to develop chemical products and processes used for oil extraction and refining. Due to the continued downsizing of the oil industry since 1990, the number of jobs in this field is declining. Sometimes, chemists can enter the field with a bachelor's degree in chemistry; however, many employers require master's or doctoral degrees for research positions. For instance, oil and gas research positions require a doctoral degree.