What is an Environmental Scientist or Specialist?
Environmental Scientist or Specialist Example 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.
A Day in the Life of an Environmental Scientist or Specialist
- 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.
- Develop methods to minimize the impact of production processes on the environment, based on the study and assessment of industrial production, environmental legislation, and physical, biological, and social environments.
- Research sources of pollution to determine their effects on the environment and to develop theories or methods of pollution abatement or control.
- 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.
- Conduct applied research on environmental topics, such as waste control or treatment or pollution abatement methods.
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What Every Environmental Scientist or Specialist Should Know
When polled, Environmental Scientists and Specialists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
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.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
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.
Types of Environmental Scientist or Specialist Jobs
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Environmental Designer
- Environmental Services Director
- Environmental Planner
- Hazardous Substances Scientist
What Kind of Environmental Scientist or Specialist Job Opportunities Are There?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 89,500 jobs in the United States for Environmental Scientist or Specialist. 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. There will be an estimated 9,500 positions for Environmental Scientist or Specialist per 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.
Environmental Scientist or Specialist Average Salary
The average yearly salary of an Environmental Scientist or Specialist ranges between $42,520 and $124,620.
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
- Structured query language SQL
- Database software
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Graphics software
Becoming an Environmental Scientist or Specialist
What education is needed to be an Environmental Scientist or Specialist?
What work experience do I need to become an Environmental Scientist or Specialist?
Who Employs Environmental Scientists and Specialists?
The table below shows the approximate number of Environmental Scientists and Specialists employed by various industries.
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming an Environmental Scientist or Specialist might also be interested in the following careers:
Are you already one of the many Environmental Scientist or Specialist in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:
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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