All About Industrial Ecologists
Career Description Apply principles and processes of natural ecosystems to develop models for efficient industrial systems. Use knowledge from the physical and social sciences to maximize effective use of natural resources in the production and use of goods and services. Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.
Daily Life Of an Industrial Ecologist
- Translate the theories of industrial ecology into eco-industrial practices.
- Plan or conduct studies of the ecological implications of historic or projected changes in industrial processes or development.
- Research sources of pollution to determine environmental impact or to develop methods of pollution abatement or control.
- Research environmental effects of land and water used to determine methods of improving environmental conditions or increasing outputs such as crop yields.
- Review research literature to maintain knowledge on topics related to industrial ecology, such as physical science, technology, economy, and public policy.
- Review industrial practices, such as the methods and materials used in construction or production, to identify potential liabilities and environmental hazards.
Featured schools near , edit
Qualities of an Industrial Ecologist
When polled, Industrial Ecologists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
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.
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.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Types of Industrial Ecologist Jobs
- Environmental Protection Specialist
- Sustainable Systems Analyst
- Environmental Protection Agency Counselor
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Programs Manager
Job Outlook for Industrial Ecologists
There were about 89,500 jobs for Industrial Ecologist in 2016 (in the United States). 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 Industrial Ecologist by 2026. There will be an estimated 9,500 positions for Industrial Ecologist per year.
The states with the most job growth for Industrial Ecologist 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 Industrial Ecologists Salary
The salary for Industrial Ecologists ranges between about $42,520 and $124,620 a year.
Industrial Ecologists who work in District of Columbia, California, or Colorado, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Industrial Ecologists in different U.S. states.
| 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 Industrial Ecologists Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Industrial Ecologists may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Web browser software
- Python
- Email software
- SAP
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
- StataCorp Stata
- Wolfram Research Mathematica
- STATISTICA
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Online databases
How to Become an Industrial Ecologist
Individuals working as an Industrial Ecologist have obtained the following education levels:
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Industrial Ecologists?
The table below shows the approximate number of Industrial Ecologists employed by various industries.
References:
Image Credit: Lynn Betts via Photo by Lynn Betts, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
More about our data sources and methodologies.
GradDegree.com provides higher-education, college and university, degree, program, career, salary, and other helpful information to students, faculty, institutions, and other internet audiences. Presented information and data are subject to change. Inclusion on this website does not imply or represent a direct relationship with the company, school, or brand. Information, though believed correct at time of publication, may not be correct, and no warranty is provided. Contact the schools to verify any information before relying on it. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify. The displayed options may include sponsored or recommended results, not necessarily based on your preferences.
© GradDegree.com – All Rights Reserved.