Job Description - Environmental Scientist:
An environmental scientist conducts research in order to identify, abate or eliminate pollutants and hazards to the environment or to the health of the population.
Employment Facts - Environmental Scientist:
There were 83,000 environmental scientists employed in 2006.
Educational Requirements - Environmental Scientist:
Although there are a few entry-level positions for which a bachelor's degree in earth science will suffice, most employers require a master's degree in environmental science, hydrology or a related natural science. Many people who want to enter this field earn their degrees in life science, chemistry, geology, geophysics, atmospheric science or physics and apply their education to the environment.
Other Requirements - Environmental Scientist:
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 - Environmental Scientist:
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 - Environmental Scientist:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects excellent demand for environmental scientists over the next several years. This field is expected to have much faster than average growth through 2016.
Earnings - Environmental Scientist:
Median annual earnings of environmental scientists were $58,380 in 2007.
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, synthesizing, analyzing, managing and reporting environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological and mineralogical information, and soil or water samples.
- Analyzing data to determine validity, quality, and scientific significance, and to interpret correlations between human activities and environmental effects.
- Communicating scientific and technical information to the public, organizations or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions or public hearings.
- Providing scientific and technical guidance, support, coordination, and oversight to governmental agencies, environmental programs, industry or the public.
- Processing and reviewing environmental permits, licenses and related materials.
- Reviewing and implementing environmental technical standards, guidelines, policies and formal regulations that meet all appropriate requirements.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Environmental Scientist, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos050.htm (visited February 26, 2009).
Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET Online, Environmental Scientist, on the Internet at http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/19-2041.00 (visited February 26, 2009).
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