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Are you looking for an opportunity to tackle real-world challenges or help build a healthier planet for future generations? If so, a career as an environmental scientist might interest you.

An environmental scientist may research and investigate the air we breathe, the water we drink and the soil we grow things in to identify and address potential hazards. Their work is about finding solutions that balance human needs with environmental sustainability.

You may know them as the scientists who helped address major environmental hazards, such as the Flint, Michigan, water crisis in 2015 or the recurring wildfires in the West and other areas of the U.S. Additionally, they’re at the forefront of combating climate change through extensive research and policy development.

The day-to-day responsibilities of this role may include:

• Devising methods to collect environmental data for research, surveys and investigations
• Gathering and analyzing samples of air, water and soil to identify pollutants or other environmental hazards
• Developing actionable plans to prevent or solve environmental issues
• Advising government agencies, businesses and communities on environmental risks and regulations
• Ensuring projects and activities comply with environmental laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act
• Creating reports and presentations to document research findings
• Evaluating environmental risks of new construction projects and suggesting ways to reduce their impact

One challenge people in this field may face is addressing the widespread effects of climate change. They must work diligently to predict extreme weather, monitor environmental hazards and manage water resources. Meanwhile, they strive to turn their research into real-world solutions that protect communities and ecosystems.

Additionally, these scientists walk a fine line to define their field clearly enough for collaboration without leaving room for misinformation and greenwashing. If the scope is too narrow, it can stifle innovation and cross-disciplinary solutions. If it’s too broad, it risks diluting credibility and eroding public trust.

Those who work in this field may also experience eco-anxiety, grief and burnout, especially when communicating urgent and distressing findings to skeptical audiences.

However, this field comes with rewards. For example, you may get the satisfaction of partaking in meaningful work that positively impacts the environment.

Additionally, there is a certain level of demand in this field. The U.S. (BLS) projects a 7% increase in job growth for this role from 2023 to 2033.

BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2023-2033 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to ��ɫ��Ƶ students or graduates.

Scientists in this field work in offices and labs, where they analyze data and devise solutions to environmental problems. However, the job isn’t always behind a desk. Environmental science jobs can involve fieldwork to collect samples or assess environmental conditions, which requires time outdoors in all types of weather.

Travel may also be part of the job, whether it’s meeting clients on-site, conducting field assessments or presenting research at industry conferences.

Additionally, work schedules may fall outside of the typical 9-to-5. Fieldwork and project deadlines can mean putting in extra hours (including nights and weekends) to gather data, monitor environmental changes or complete research.

As of May 2023, environmental scientists earned between $48,580 and $133,660, with a median wage of $78,980, .

Salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of ��ɫ��Ƶ. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. ��ɫ��Ƶ does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.

Interested in a career in environmental science? You’ll need a strong educational background, hands-on experience and specialized training to get started. 

Getting an environmental science job typically starts with earning a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science or a related field. This foundation equips you with knowledge and skills to analyze environmental challenges, develop sustainable solutions and more.

Courses may include chemistry, biology, hydrology and geology. You may also be expected to take specialized courses in public policy analysis, environmental toxicology, environmental law and environmental economics.

Gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer opportunities with environmental organizations can also prepare you with skills to apply in this field.

While certification isn’t always necessary, some employers prefer or require it for certain roles. Several organizations provide certifications, which can range from being generally knowledgeable about the field to having extensive regulatory knowledge.

If you’re looking to take your career in environmental science above and beyond, you have access to a variety of continuing education opportunities and professional organizations.

For example, the National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) offers interdisciplinary resources, networking events and professional development programs that promote excellence in environmental decision-making.

Another is the NAEP’s Annual Conference & Training Symposium, which brings together environmental professionals nationwide to exchange knowledge, explore new projects, network and engage with industry leaders in environmental technologies and practices.

Are you pursuing a path in ecological science? The Ecological Society of America provides workshops, conferences and publications that could help support educational growth and keep you up to date on advancements. That includes the organization’s annual meeting, where you can participate in workshops and network with peers.