Alternate Title(s) | Environmental Engineer |
Minimum Education Requirements | Bachelor's degree |
Salary | See Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information |
Job Skills | - Analytical skills. Environmental scientists and specialists base their conclusions on careful analysis of scientific data. They must consider all possible methods and solutions in their analyses. - Communication skills. Environmental scientists and specialists may need to present and explain their findings to audiences of varying backgrounds and to write technical reports. - Interpersonal skills. Environmental scientists and specialists typically work on teams with scientists, engineers, and technicians. Team members must be able to work together effectively to achieve their goals. - Problem-solving skills. Environmental scientists and specialists try to find the best possible solution to problems that affect the environment and people’s health. - Self-discipline. Environmental scientists and specialists may spend a lot of time working alone. They need to be able to stay motivated and get their work done without supervision. |
Job Duties | Environmental scientists and specialists typically do the following: - Determine data collection methods for research projects, investigations, and surveys - Collect and compile environmental data from samples of air, soil, water, food, and other materials for scientific analysis - Analyze samples, surveys, and other information to identify and assess threats to the environment - Develop plans to prevent, control, or fix environmental problems, such as land or water pollution - Provide information and guidance to government officials, businesses, and the general public on possible environmental hazards and health risks - Prepare technical reports and presentations that explain their research and findings |
Job Profile | Environmental scientists and specialists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment and human health. They may clean up polluted areas, advise policymakers, or work with industry to reduce waste. The federal government and many state and local governments have regulations to ensure that there is clean air to breathe, safe water to drink, and no hazardous materials in the soil. The regulations also place limits on development, particularly near sensitive ecosystems such as wetlands. Environmental scientists and specialists who work for governments ensure that the regulations are followed. Other environmental scientists and specialists work for consulting firms that help companies comply with regulations and policies. Some environmental scientists and specialists focus on environmental regulations that are designed to protect people’s health, while others focus on regulations designed to minimize society’s impact on the ecosystem. |
The information presented within this occupational profile was synthesized from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s Handbook of Occupational Groups & Families.