Summary of Career Info for Environmental Scientists from the Occupational Outlook Handbook:
| Quick Facts: Environmental Scientists and Specialists | |
|---|---|
| 2021 Median Pay | $76,530 per year $36.79 per hour |
| Typical Entry-Level Education | Bachelor's degree |
| Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
| On-the-job Training | None |
| Number of Jobs, 2021 | 80,000 |
| Job Outlook, 2021-31 | 5% (As fast as average) |
| Employment Change, 2021-31 | 3,800 |
What Environmental Scientists and Specialists Do
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.
Work Environment
Environmental scientists and specialists work in offices and laboratories. Some may spend time in the field gathering data and monitoring environmental conditions firsthand. Most environmental scientists and specialists work full time.
How to Become an Environmental Scientist or Specialist
Environmental scientists and specialists need at least a bachelor’s degree in a natural science or science-related field for most entry-level jobs.
Pay
The median annual wage for environmental scientists and specialists was $71,130 in May 2018.
Job Outlook
Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Heightened public interest in the hazards facing the environment, as well as increasing demands placed on the environment by population growth, are expected to spur demand for environmental scientists and specialists.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for environmental scientists and specialists.
Similar Occupations
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More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about environmental scientists and specialists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
