How to become an environmental scientists and specialist, including health

Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

What environmental scientists and specialists, including health do

• Communicate scientific or technical information to the public, organizations, or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions, or public hearings.
• Collect, synthesize, analyze, manage, and report environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological or mineralogical information, or soil or water samples.
• Review and implement environmental technical standards, guidelines, policies, and formal regulations that meet all appropriate requirements.
• Provide scientific or technical guidance, support, coordination, or oversight to governmental agencies, environmental programs, industry, or the public.
• Prepare charts or graphs from data samples, providing summary information on the environmental relevance of the data.
• Research sources of pollution to determine their effects on the environment and to develop theories or methods of pollution abatement or control.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Writing
• Speaking
• Science
• Critical Thinking
• Active Learning
• Monitoring

Is environmental scientists and specialist, including health a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 61% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• District of Columbia $132,620
• California $106,510
• Rhode Island $100,730
• Massachusetts $100,640
• Washington $98,300

Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.