Environmental scientists identify hazards to the environment or to the health of the earth's inhabitants, such as pollution. They also help create solutions to protect the environment by eliminating these hazards, or at least decreasing their harmful effects.

Environmental Scientist Duties & Responsibilities

The job generally requires the ability to do the following tasks:

·         Determine data collection methods, then collect and analyse samples of soil, water, air, and other materials

·         Conduct fieldwork to investigate the nature and extent of soil, sediment, groundwater, and other media contamination

·         Develop plans to prevent, control, or fix environmental problems

·         Perform program research, planning and development, permitting, compliance monitoring, inspections/enforcement, and technical support services in relation to air, water, waste, federal facilities, corrective action, mining, biology, and other environmental programs

·         Write reports that present research findings and guidance to stakeholders

·         Provide guidance to the public, government organizations, and businesses to mitigate environmental and health hazards

·         Different types of specialists exist in the broad environmental scientist category, including climate change analysts, environmental health and safety specialists, environmental restoration planners, industrial ecologists, and environmental chemists. Exact duties will vary depending on specialty.

Education Requirements & Qualifications

Education: You should be able to get an entry-level job with a bachelor's degree in environmental science. Alternatively, you can begin your career with an undergraduate degree in biology, engineering, chemistry, or physics. A master's degree is usually required to advance in this field.