Schedule 1: Complete Guide to Hiring a Chemist, Unlocking Mixing Stations, & Automating Production

If you're diving into the world of Schedule 1, you already know how crucial the Chemist is. This specialist is the backbone of your operation, creating products that fuel your empire and keep everything running smoothly. But what if your Chemist refuses to work? Or what if you're struggling to set up or manage your Mixing Station effectively? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! This guide will break everything down from hiring a Chemist to troubleshooting common issues, including how to automate processes with Handlers and maximize efficiency. Let’s get into it!

Getting Started: What Does the Chemist Do?

The Chemist is a vital worker in Schedule 1, responsible for mixing a variety of in-game products. You'll need a Mixing Station, the correct ingredients, and appropriate assignments to ensure smooth production. Without the Chemist, your empire won’t be able to produce essential products needed to expand your operations.

How to Unlock and Hire a Chemist

Before you can start using a Chemist, you need to unlock the role. Here's how to hire one:

Reach Hoodlum V Rank: The Chemist becomes available after you've progressed to the Hoodlum V rank in the game.
Access the Illegal Warehouse: To hire the Chemist, you need to gain access to the illegal warehouse, which unlocks once you've advanced far enough.
Speak to Manny, the Fixer: Once you're in the warehouse, visit Manny (the Fixer) who will help you hire a Chemist. Manny will be located upstairs, past the weapons and black market stalls.
Pay the Fees: After finding Manny, you can hire a Chemist for a one-time signing fee of $1,500. Your Chemist will also require a daily wage of $300 to keep them working efficiently. (gamerblurb.com)
Ensure Comfort: Make sure your Chemist has a bed and a suitcase for their pay. Without these, they won't be able to work.

Once you’ve done this, the Chemist will be ready to start making the products you need to grow your operation.

How to Get a Mixing Station

A Mixing Station is where the magic happens. Without it, your Chemist can’t create any products. Here's how to get one:

Unlock the Mixing Station:
- Progress to Hoodlum I Rank: To unlock the Mixing Station, you must progress to the Hoodlum I rank in the game.
- Alternatively, Start the Mixing Mania Quest: You can also unlock the Mixing Station by starting the Mixing Mania quest, which is another way to gain access.
Purchase the Mixing Station:
- Visit Dan's Hardware Store: After unlocking the Mixing Station, head over to Dan’s Hardware Store in the game.
- Buy the Mixing Table: The mixing table costs $500 and will be available for purchase.
Setting Up Your Mixing Station: Once you have the Mixing Station, place it in a strategic location within your warehouse. Make sure it’s easily accessible, with enough space for the Chemist to work around.
Consider Multiple Stations: If you want to scale up, consider purchasing additional Mixing Stations or setting up separate stations for specific product lines. This helps streamline production as your business grows.

Assigning the Chemist to Work

Now that you have the Mixing Station and your Chemist is hired, here’s how to assign them to work:

Open the Assignment Menu: Stand near the Chemist and press 9 to bring up the Management Clipboard, then press E to access their specific assignment menu.
Select the Mixing Station: In the assignment menu, select the Mixing Station you want the Chemist to use. You can assign them to a specific station or multiple stations if needed.
Assign a Recipe: Choose the recipe or product you want the Chemist to create. You can select from a variety of mixes depending on the ingredients you have.
Ensure There Are Enough Ingredients: The Chemist won’t start mixing if the necessary ingredients aren’t available. Make sure you stock the required materials on nearby shelves.
Confirm and Watch the Magic Happen: If everything is set up correctly, your Chemist should start working immediately. Watch as they mix ingredients into the desired products!

Troubleshooting: Chemist Not Working?

A Chemist refusing to work can be frustrating, but here are some common fixes:

Check Assignment: Ensure the Chemist is assigned to the correct Mixing Station. Go back to the assignment menu and double-check their tasks.
Provide a Bed and Suitcase: Workers need rest and compensation to stay productive. Assign a bed and ensure their wages are placed in the suitcase near their bed.
Ensure Ingredients Are Available: If the Chemist doesn't have the right ingredients, they won't be able to create products. Check that Handlers are delivering the necessary materials to the Mixing Station.
Repair the Mixing Station: If the Mixing Station is damaged or not functioning, the Chemist can’t work. Try repairing it or replacing it if needed.
Restart the Game: Sometimes, bugs or glitches may cause issues. Restarting the game can resolve unexpected problems and get your Chemist working again.

Utilizing Handlers for Automation

Handlers are employees that help automate the process, ensuring materials are delivered to workstations and minimizing the need for manual labor. Here’s how Handlers can help:

Hiring a Handler: To hire a Handler, visit Manny, the Fixer, in the warehouse. You’ll need to pay a signing fee of $1,500 and a daily wage of $200 for the Handler. This will allow them to transport materials and manage resources for your Chemist and Mixing Station.
Assigning Tasks to Handlers: Handlers can be assigned specific routes, such as transporting ingredients from shelves to the Mixing Station. Use the Management Clipboard to set up delivery routes and workstations for the Handler.
Automating the Process: Once your Handler is assigned, they’ll automatically deliver ingredients to the Mixing Station, ensuring continuous production without your direct intervention. This helps to streamline the entire workflow.
Maximize Efficiency: Combine Handlers and Chemists with multiple Mixing Stations for fully automated production. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your empire while your employees handle the heavy lifting.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Efficiency

Want to get the most out of your Chemist, Mixing Station, and Handlers? Here are some expert tips:

Upgrade Your Equipment: Higher-tier Mixing Stations speed up production and can handle more complex recipes. Invest in better equipment for faster output.
Optimize Your Storage: Set up a well-organized storage system to avoid ingredient shortages. Consider dedicating shelves for specific materials to prevent confusion and ensure quick access.
Keep Your Chemist Happy: Regular pay, a bed, and a clear work schedule are essential to keeping your Chemist productive. The happier your employees, the more efficient they’ll be.
Automate with Handlers: Use Handlers to automate ingredient delivery and streamline production. The less you have to micromanage, the better!
Join the Community: Stay updated on tips and tricks by checking out Schedule 1 forums, Reddit, or Discord groups. Community members often share helpful advice and strategies to improve your gameplay.

Community Support and Resources

Need more help? Check out these community resources where other players share solutions:

Final Thoughts

Managing a Chemist and Mixing Station in Schedule 1 can be tricky, but once you get the hang of it, your operation will run like a well-oiled machine. Just make sure your Chemist is assigned, stocked, and happy, and you’ll be raking in profits in no time!

If you're diving deep into Schedule 1, you’ll need to check out our comprehensive Best Schedule 1 Mods & How to Install Them – Ultimate Guide to enhance your experience. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, these mods will give you more control and flexibility.

Need more space in your inventory? Don't miss our Ultimate Schedule I Inventory Guide: Discard, Sell & Free Up Space to optimize your resources and manage your items efficiently.

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