Job Description:
Protecting the environment is an environmental scientist's goal when he or she goes to work each day. Achieving that goal requires conducting research that will identify, abate or eliminate pollutants and hazards to the environment or to the health of the population.
Employment Facts:
There were 86,000 environmental scientists employed in 2008.
Educational Requirements:
Although it's possible to get an entry-level job as an environmental scientist with a bachelor's degree in earth science, many employers will hire only those who have earned a master's degree in environmental science, hydrology or a related natural science.
Other Requirements:
To work as an environmental scientist one needs computer skills. Good written and oral communication skills and strong interpersonal skills are also essential. Knowledge of a second language is a plus.
Advancement Opportunities:
An environmental scientist begins his or her work in field exploration or sometimes in the laboratory as a technician or research assistant. With experience, he or she gets more difficult assignments and may eventually move into a supervisory role.
Job Outlook:
The job outlook for environment scientists is excellent. This occupation is projected to experience much faster growth, through 2018, than other occupations requiring at least a master's degree (The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Earnings:
Median annual earnings of environmental scientists were $61,010 in 2009.
Use the Salary Wizard at Salary.com to find out how much an environmental scientist currently earns in your city.
A Day in an Environmental Scientist's Life:
On a typical day an environmental scientist's tasks might include:
- Collecting environmental data, for example pollution emission measurements or water samples.
- Analyzing data to determine its quality and scientific significance, and looking for correlations between human activities and environmental effects.
- Reporting scientific and technical information to the public by writing about it or making presentations at workshops, conferences, training sessions or public hearings.
- Giving scientific and technical guidance and support to government agencies, industries and the public.
- Processing and reviewing environmental permits, licenses and related materials.
- Reviewing environmental policies, regulations and guidelines to make sure they meet appropriate requirements.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Environmental Scientist, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos050.htm (visited March 25, 2010).
Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET Online, Environmental Scientist, on the Internet at http://online.onetcenter.org/link/details/19-2041.00 (visited November 19, 2010).
Should You Become an Environmental Scientist? Take a Quiz to Find Out.
