Environmental Scientist

What is this job like?		Back to Top

Environmental scientists find and fix pollution and other environmental problems. They figure out what is in the air, water, and soil to make sure that the environment is safe. They also give advice on how to clean the environment. For example, they might design a safe way to get rid of trash.

Some of these workers mix environmental science with other sciences, such as chemistry or biology. Environmental chemists find out if different chemicals hurt the environment. Environmental biologists focus on protecting animals and plants.

Some environmental scientists help to make laws about protecting the environment. They also help companies follow the laws.

Environmental scientists work in laboratories and offices. They also work outside, taking measurements. They use math and computers.

Environmental scientists sometimes work long hours. Some travel to far away places in trucks and helicopters. They might dig dirt, chip rocks, or do other physical things. Scientists who look for oil often work in foreign countries.

In addition to doing science, many of these workers write reports and help find money for their projects.

How do you get ready?		Back to Top

All of these workers need a college degree. Most need an advanced degree—either a master's, which takes 1 or 2 more years after finishing college, or a doctoral degree, which takes longer.

In college, these workers study geography, environmental science, chemistry, biology, earth science, and physics. They also study math and statistics so that they can understand measurements and data. People who want to make laws about protecting the environment also take law classes.

In addition to taking classes, scientists have to learn how to work with other people. They also need to practice speaking and writing so that they will be able to explain their research.

Workers also need computer skills. And they need to know about the latest tools and technology for studying the earth.

Students can start getting ready by taking science, math, and computer classes. They can also read books about rocks, the earth, and the environment.

How much does this job pay?		Back to Top

The middle half of all environmental scientists earned between $42,840 and $74,480 in 2006. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $34,590. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $94,670.

How many jobs are there?		Back to Top

Environmental scientists held about 83,000 jobs in 2006. Many worked for governments. Others worked for science and engineering companies, oil and gas companies, and other places. Some had their own businesses.

What about the future?		Back to Top

The number of jobs for environmental scientists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2016. That's because people want the environment to be cleaner, and more businesses and governments will hire these scientists to help do that.

Are there other jobs like this?		Back to Top

• Astronomers
• Atmospheric scientists
• Chemists
• Engineering technicians
• Mathematicians
• Petroleum engineers
• Physicists
• Science technicians

Where can you find more information?		Back to Top

More BLS information about environmental scientists and hydrologists can be found in the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The Handbook also shows where to find out even more about this job.

Last Modified Date: April 29, 2008