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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Environmental Scientists.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Environmental Scientists.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 5%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Collect, synthesize, analyze, manage, and report environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological or mineralogical information, or soil or water samples.
Communicate scientific or technical information to the public, organizations, or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions, or public hearings.
Monitor effects of pollution or land degradation and recommend means of prevention or control.
Becoming an environmental scientist often involves a combination of formal education, skills development, and hands-on experience. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
The first step to becoming an environmental scientist is to earn a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field such as:
Choose programs that are accredited and recognized within the scientific community. Some reputable accrediting bodies include the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council and the ABET for environmental engineering programs.
While studying, it's important to gain practical experience. This can be through:
Such experiences can provide practical skills and enhance your resume.
An environmental scientist should have a well-rounded set of skills that include:
In some cases, environmental scientists may need certification or licensure, especially if they work in compliance or public health sectors. For example:
For those interested in research or specialized areas of study, a master's degree or Ph.D. might be necessary. Advanced degrees can lead to higher-level positions, such as:
Environmental science is an evolving field. Staying up-to-date with the latest research, technology, and regulations is crucial. You can do this by:
Building a professional network is invaluable. Connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders through:
Remember, becoming an environmental scientist requires a mix of education, experience, and ongoing learning. By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to enter this dynamic and impactful career field.
While not always required, professional certifications can enhance job prospects:
Professional Geologist (PG) or Professional Engineer (PE): Required in some states for specific tasks that involve public safety and may require passing an exam.
For more information on certifications, visit the National Registry of Environmental Professionals or your state's licensing board.
Yes, many environmental scientists work in various government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels:
The demand for environmental scientists is expected to grow due to increasing public interest in environmental issues and the need for compliance with environmental regulations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow faster than average from 2019 to 2029.
Environmental Scientists can find employment across various sectors:
To remain current in the field: