What does an Environmental Scientist do?
An environmental scientist is responsible for conducting tests to determine the effects of human activity on the environment. They are responsible for blowing the whistle whenever there is a serious issue. A few of the main duties of an environmental scientist are collecting data for tests, developing a plan of action, creating budgets for projects, and assisting in the performance of an audit. They also have to create reports about the health of the environment. Some of the jobs titles that an environmental scientist could grow into are head environmental scientist and chief scientific officer.
An environmental scientist does not need work experience but should have a bachelor's degree in environmental science. One of the most important skills that an environmental scientist will have is critical thinking. Another skill is problem solving as the environmental scientist will need to be able to solve an environmental area's issues.
- Collecting data from reliable sources
- Creating budgets for projects
- Creating plans to fix an area's problems
- Interpret data to find issues
- Create scientific reports and presentations
- Conduct tests in the lab with samples from the environment
- Audit companies that are not in compliance with regulations
- Create models of the environment
- No experience needed
- Master's or PhD preferred
- Ability to analyze data and come to conclusions
- Deep knowledge of environmental regulations
- Ability to work well in a team environment
- Knowledge of different lab tests
- Ability to create data capturing processes
- Great problem solving abilities
- Ability to create a corrective plan of action
How much does an Environmental Scientist make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$86,772
/ yrEnvironmental Scientist Career Path
Learn how to become an Environmental Scientist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Environmental Scientist Insights
Western Illinois University“There is little money and so professor quality is poor and professors are rarely replaced if one leaves.”
Arizona Department of Water Resources“Pensions are not good for young employees who are not sure where to take their career.”
Colorado Springs Utilities“I love the work and the coworkers I work with directly are amazing and a joy to work with.”
Verdantas“Our insurance was taken away the day that we were informed we were let go.”
Raba Kistner“They will do anything to save a buck and will not compromise in any way.”
Hillsborough County (Florida)“Many of the people in the county are doing really good work and care a lot.”
Weston Solutions“Personal growth potential is good”
CHS Inc“Some good people to work with and pay wasn’t horrible”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of an Environmental Scientist
When working as an Environmental Scientist, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Attention To Detail, Wetland Delineation, Windows, Report Writing, and Powerpoint.
- Water Resources Engineer
- Environmental Specialist
- Environmental Engineer
- EHS Specialist
The most common qualifications to become an Environmental Scientist include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.