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NOC 21101 is the Canadian National Occupational Classification code for Chemists. It is classified TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree, which meets the skill requirement for Express Entry. An officer decides whether you can claim this code by comparing the duties written in your reference letter against the official main duties below — not by your job title.
Classification
Natural & applied sciences
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Definition
Chemists conduct research and analysis in support of industrial operations, product and process development, quality control, environmental control, medical diagnosis and treatment, biotechnology, nanotechnology and other applications. They also conduct theoretical, experimental and applied research into basic chemical and biochemical processes to create or synthesize new products and processes. They are employed in research, development and quality control laboratories; chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries; mineral, metal and pulp and paper industries; and a wide variety of manufacturing, utility, health, educational and government establishments.
Main duties
Example job titles
Overview
NOC 21101 Chemists represents a highly skilled professional occupation under Canada's National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system. Classified under TEER Category 1, chemists conduct research, analyze chemical compounds, and develop new chemical products and processes across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, and manufacturing. Their primary duties include conducting qualitative and quantitative analyses, synthesizing organic and inorganic compounds, and ensuring quality control and assurance in laboratory environments.
To qualify under NOC 21101, candidates typically require a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline. Research-focused roles often demand a master's degree or a Ph.D. Professional certification is mandatory to practice as a professional chemist in Quebec through the Ordre des chimistes du Québec (OCQ), while registration with provincial chemist associations is voluntary but beneficial in other provinces such as Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
As a TEER 1 occupation, Chemists are eligible for major Canadian economic immigration streams, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) managed under the Express Entry system. They may also qualify for targeted category-based draws for STEM professionals or various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) seeking skilled scientific personnel.
Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.
Yes — Chemists is TEER 1, and TEER 0–3 occupations meet the skill-level requirement for Express Entry programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class. Full eligibility also depends on your work experience, language results and other program criteria.
Chemists is classified as TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree. Always confirm the exact employment requirements on the official NOC profile before relying on them.
Yes — Chemists is regulated in Québec, so practising there requires recognition from the relevant professional body, and Québec immigration programs take this into account.
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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.