All About Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Environmental Scientist or Specialist Definition 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
- Investigate and report on accidents affecting the environment.
- Supervise or train students, environmental technologists, technicians, or other related staff.
- Determine data collection methods to be employed in research projects or surveys.
- Develop programs designed to obtain the most productive, non-damaging use of land.
- Prepare charts or graphs from data samples, providing summary information on the environmental relevance of the data.
- Conduct applied research on environmental topics, such as waste control or treatment or pollution abatement methods.
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Environmental Scientist or Specialist Skills
Below is a list of the skills most Environmental Scientists and Specialists say are important on the job.
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.
Types of Environmental Scientist or Specialist
- Pollution Control Chemist
- Marine Scientist
- Environmental Health and Safety Specialist
- Ecological Modeler
- Regulatory Analyst
Job Demand 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. The BLS estimates 9,500 yearly job openings in this field.
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.
Salary for an Environmental Scientist or Specialist
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.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Environmental Scientists and Specialists 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 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 do I Become an Environmental Scientist or Specialist?
What education is needed to be an Environmental Scientist or Specialist?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Other Jobs You May be Interested In
Those interested in being an Environmental Scientist or Specialist may also be interested in:
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
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