imperial logo
Welcome to Imperial Valley College!

Where we foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character, and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community.

Follow us:facebook icontwitter iconinstagram iconyoutube iconlinkedin icon

Chemical Technician FAQ

 

What is the Chemical Technician Program?
The Chemical Technician Program at Imperial Valley College is a hands-on training program designed to prepare students for a career in chemical labs. Developed with input from leading Lithium companies, this program focuses on practical skills rather than theoretical chemistry.
 
Is this a traditional chemistry program?

No, this is not a traditional chemistry program. The program is tailored for individuals who want to work in a chemical lab setting and does not require prior chemistry knowledge.

What certifications will I earn upon completion?

Upon completion, you will earn your OSHA certificate, Imperial Valley College Certificate, and will be placed in an internship for real-world experience.

When do classes begin?

Classes for the Chemical Technician Program begin on August 12th.

How long is the program and how many units do I need to complete?

The program can be completed in just two semesters, totaling 20 units.

What are the courses for the Fall 2026 semester?
  • CHEM 082 (4 units)
  • Math 105 (3 units)
  • CIS 124 - Excel 1 (1 unit)
  • WE 201 (1 unit)
What are the courses for the Spring 2027 semester?
  • CHEM 085 (4 units)
  • WT 110 (4 units)
  • BLDC 015 (1 unit)
  • CIS 120 - Microsoft Word 1 (1 unit)
  • WE 220 (1 unit)
What kind of job opportunities are available after completing the program?

There is a high demand for Chemical Technicians in various industries. Potential job roles include:

  • Quality Control Technician
  • Laboratory Assistant
  • Research Technician
  • Environmental Technician
  • Chemical Process Technician
Where can I find more information about labor market trends for Chemical Technicians?

You can check out the Labor Market Report for Chemical Technicians on the Centers of Excellence webpage to explore job opportunities.

Who can I contact for more information about the program?

For more information, you can contact:

What are the key learning goals of the program?

The program aims to provide students with practical skills in:

  • Working accurately in a lab environment
  • Collecting and interpreting data
  • Proper use and maintenance of lab equipment
  • Handling and storing samples and reagents
  • Organizing and conducting experiments
What is the overall goal of the Chemical Technician Program?

The overall goal is to prepare students to maintain a lab in proper working order, ensuring they are confident working with various equipment and chemicals, and capable of providing meaningful data to supervisors.

What makes this program unique?

The Chemical Technician Program at Imperial Valley College stands out due to its strong industry connections, practical hands-on training, and the comprehensive support provided to students, including internships and certification.

Which agencies are looking to hire Chemical Technicians?

Agencies looking to hire Chemical Technicians include:

  • Imperial Irrigation District
  • CalEnergy Resource Ltd.
  • Imperial CBD Extraction
  • USG Corporation
  • Equinox Gold
  • Controlled Thermal Resources
  • Energy Source
Will my Education Plan or financial aid be affected if I am a current student?

For more information regarding this, contact Maria Neely to schedule a one-on-one appointment to go over your individual situation.