All About Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Environmental Scientist or Specialist Job Description Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or the health of the population. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.
Environmental Scientist or Specialist Responsibilities
- Develop programs designed to obtain the most productive, non-damaging use of land.
- Conduct environmental audits or inspections or investigations of violations.
- Research sources of pollution to determine their effects on the environment and to develop theories or methods of pollution abatement or control.
- Investigate and report on accidents affecting the environment.
- Design or direct studies to obtain technical environmental information about planned projects.
- Supervise or train students, environmental technologists, technicians, or other related staff.
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Things an Environmental Scientist or Specialist Should Know How to Do
When polled, Environmental Scientists and Specialists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Other Environmental Scientist or Specialist Job Titles
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Environmental Services Assistant
- Regulatory Analyst
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Services Director
Are There Job Opportunities for Environmental Scientists and Specialists?
In the United States, there were 89,500 jobs for Environmental Scientist or Specialist in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.1% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 9,900 new jobs for Environmental Scientist or Specialist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 9,500 job openings in this field each year.
The states with the most job growth for Environmental Scientist or Specialist are Utah, Nevada, and Colorado. Watch out if you plan on working in Maine, Alaska, or Maryland. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Average Environmental Scientists and Specialists Salary
The salary for Environmental Scientists and Specialists ranges between about $42,520 and $124,620 a year.
Environmental Scientists and Specialists who work in District of Columbia, California, or Colorado, make the highest salaries.
How much do Environmental Scientists and Specialists make in each U.S. state?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $67,630 |
| Alaska | $80,220 |
| Arizona | $72,150 |
| Arkansas | $58,540 |
| California | $91,890 |
| Colorado | $93,010 |
| Connecticut | $83,220 |
| Delaware | $59,890 |
| District of Columbia | $115,190 |
| Florida | $58,790 |
| Georgia | $72,860 |
| Hawaii | $69,780 |
| Idaho | $60,470 |
| Illinois | $78,640 |
| Indiana | $62,590 |
| Iowa | $74,140 |
| Kansas | $76,780 |
| Kentucky | $51,740 |
| Louisiana | $68,570 |
| Maine | $67,390 |
| Maryland | $77,300 |
| Massachusetts | $82,580 |
| Michigan | $69,430 |
| Minnesota | $74,880 |
| Missouri | $53,820 |
| Montana | $68,660 |
| Nebraska | $61,020 |
| Nevada | $63,920 |
| New Hampshire | $75,520 |
| New Jersey | $80,350 |
| New Mexico | $87,200 |
| New York | $79,340 |
| North Carolina | $64,850 |
| North Dakota | $72,860 |
| Ohio | $74,750 |
| Oklahoma | $65,490 |
| Oregon | $77,980 |
| Pennsylvania | $74,430 |
| Rhode Island | $82,160 |
| South Dakota | $61,250 |
| Tennessee | $72,470 |
| Texas | $80,880 |
| Utah | $68,480 |
| Vermont | $66,440 |
| Virginia | $85,550 |
| Washington | $85,090 |
| West Virginia | $56,380 |
| Wisconsin | $61,030 |
| Wyoming | $68,940 |
What Tools & Technology do Environmental Scientists and Specialists Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Environmental Scientists and Specialists:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Web browser software
- Microsoft Access
- Word processing software
- SAP
- Microsoft Project
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Spreadsheet software
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Database software
- Structured query language SQL
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Graphics software
How to Become an Environmental Scientist or Specialist
What education or degrees do I need to become an Environmental Scientist or Specialist?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where Environmental Scientists and Specialists Work
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming an Environmental Scientist or Specialist might also be interested in the following careers:
Career changers with experience as an Environmental Scientist or Specialist sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
Image Credit: Lynn Betts via Photo by Lynn Betts, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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