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Find a Job You Really Want In
Absolutely! Environmental services is an excellent career path. As society becomes increasingly focused on conservation, sustainability, and the environmental impact of our actions, there is growing interest from governments, businesses, and educational institutions in the field, leading to a rise in job opportunities.
With technological advancements, the focus on the environmental implications of new technologies and methods persists, ensuring that the field of environmental services remains vital. Even as automation improves certain processes, there will always be a need for skilled professionals to interpret data and educate others about its significance.
The environmental services sector is diverse, with numerous career paths available based on individual interests and specialties.
10 of the Best Paying Jobs in Environmental Services
As in many career paths, higher education often correlates with better compensation. Most positions in environmental services require specialized education due to the field’s complexity, encompassing sustainability, conservation, and ecological understanding.
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Average Annual Salary: $65,000
Environmental scientists analyze and research environmental conditions by collecting samples from soil, air, and water to monitor pollution levels. Their findings contribute to hazard mitigation strategies and policy development.
This role typically involves working in both office and laboratory settings, requiring strong analytical skills and effective communication.
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Average Annual Salary: $95,000
This role involves managing water resources, including drinking water supply, flood control, and wastewater treatment. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are essential for gaining approval from local and governmental bodies.
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Average Annual Salary: $85,000
Marine scientists specialize in oceanography, studying marine ecosystems and organisms. Their work is critical for understanding climate change and biodiversity in ocean environments.
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Average Annual Salary: $90,000
Energy engineers focus on the environmental impacts of energy generation, particularly in the context of renewable resources. This role often requires fieldwork and collaboration with contractors, along with staying updated on technological innovations.
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Average Annual Salary: $75,000
Environmental planners assess the environmental impacts of various projects, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting sustainable practices.
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Average Annual Salary: $80,000
Climate change analysts study climate data, focusing on the implications of climate change and developing strategies to mitigate its effects. This position typically requires advanced education.
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Average Annual Salary: $95,000
Environmental attorneys specialize in legal matters related to environmental regulations and compliance, representing clients or working in public interest law.
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Average Annual Salary: $55,000
Naturalists study ecosystems and educate the public about conservation efforts, often requiring a background in biology and ecology.
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Average Annual Salary: $70,000
Sustainability consultants advise businesses on environmental best practices, requiring an in-depth understanding of industry-specific sustainability challenges.
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Average Annual Salary: $78,000
Environmental engineers develop solutions to environmental problems focusing on sustainability and resource conservation, merging knowledge from various scientific disciplines.
All the above positions typically require advanced education and experience. If you’re just starting in the industry, consider the following entry-level opportunities.
10 Entry-Level Jobs in Environmental Services
While a four-year degree is often necessary for many positions in environmental services, some entry-level roles can be pursued with a high school diploma or an associate’s degree. However, aspiring for higher-paying positions usually necessitates a bachelor’s degree.
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Average Annual Salary: $40,000
Environmental assistants support scientists by collecting samples, conducting analyses, and drafting reports, providing valuable experience for career advancement.
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Average Annual Salary: $60,000
Forest firefighters specialize in wildfire management, prevention, and containment, often requiring first aid training and emergency management skills.
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Environmental Field Technician
Average Annual Salary: $35,000
Field technicians conduct environmental testing and monitoring, requiring familiarity with scientific equipment and strong reporting skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $48,000
Water technicians maintain and operate water treatment equipment, ensuring compliance with water quality standards and regulations.
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Average Annual Salary: $50,000
Environmental educators create awareness programs and materials, engaging with the community to promote conservation and sustainability.
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Average Annual Salary: $36,000
Conservation technicians assist in land and resource management projects, conducting data collection and monitoring environmental health.
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Average Annual Salary: $52,000
Park rangers manage natural resources and visitor safety, ensuring compliance with regulations and providing assistance in emergencies.
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Average Annual Salary: $70,000
Foresters manage forested areas, focusing on conservation practices, wildlife habitats, and sustainable harvesting.
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Average Annual Salary: $34,000
Forestry technicians support conservation efforts by collecting data and assisting in forest management activities.
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Average Annual Salary: $40,000
Wildlife technicians manage and study wildlife populations, often assisting biologists in research and conservation projects.
Most of the positions listed above typically require a bachelor’s degree, but they provide excellent opportunities for gaining experience and advancing your career.
Why Choose a Career in Environmental Services?
Environmental services offer diverse career paths based on your interests. The following attributes can be beneficial if you choose to pursue a career in this field:
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You enjoy the outdoors. Many jobs in this sector involve fieldwork, making it ideal for those who thrive in natural settings.
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The environment matters to you. This field focuses on preserving the environment and promoting sustainable resource use, making it a fulfilling career choice.
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You have a passion for the natural world. Careers in environmental services often involve studying and protecting ecosystems, providing opportunities to engage with nature.
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You are interested in science. Many roles require a solid understanding of scientific principles, making it suitable for those who enjoy scientific inquiry.
The field of environmental services is broad and multifaceted, encompassing numerous specialties beyond what this article covers. The above attributes serve as a solid foundation for determining if this career path aligns with your interests.
Education and Certification Requirements for a Career in Environmental Services
Higher education is essential for most roles in environmental services. While some positions may not require a degree, obtaining one is highly recommended. Consider these majors for a career in environmental services:
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Biology. A foundational major for many environmental careers, offering specializations such as ecology.
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Chemistry. Understanding chemical interactions is crucial for environmental monitoring and testing.
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Forestry. This major focuses on managing and restoring forests, integrating conservation and ecological principles.
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Environmental Science. A comprehensive major that covers sustainability, conservation, and ecosystem management.
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Wildlife Management. An excellent choice for aspiring wildlife technicians or naturalists.
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Engineering. A versatile degree that can lead to various engineering roles, including environmental engineering.
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Environmental Engineering. Ideal for those pursuing a career as an environmental engineer.
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Marine Sciences. A specialized field for those interested in marine environments and ecosystems.
While certifications are not mandatory for most roles, they can enhance your qualifications. Here are specific requirements for certain positions:
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Environmental attorneys must be licensed to practice law, requiring a law degree and passing the bar exam.
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EMT certification is highly recommended for firefighters.
What Do People Working in Environmental Services Do?
Professionals in environmental services prioritize conservation and sustainability. Their work encompasses direct conservation efforts, educating the public and businesses about environmental impacts, and developing energy generation and business practices that protect the environment.
Individuals can engage in research to deepen our understanding of ecological systems, advocate for better practices, or innovate solutions that positively impact the planet.
- Good Career Path
- Is Life Insurance A Good Career Path
- Is Medical Specialties A Good Career Path
- Is Other Specialty Stores A Good Career Path
- Is Water Supply A Good Career Path
- Is Miscellaneous Manufacturing Industries A Good Career Path
- Is Paper A Good Career Path
- Is Environmental Services A Good Career Path
- Is Specialty Chemicals A Good Career Path
- Is Retail Building Materials A Good Career Path
- Is Investment Bankers/Brokers/Service A Good Career Path
- Is Apparel A Good Career Path
- Is Fluid Controls A Good Career Path
- Is Television Services A Good Career Path
- Is Steel/Iron Ore A Good Career Path
- Is Advertising A Good Career Path
- Is Public Utilities A Good Career Path
- Is Food Chains A Good Career Path
- Is Savings Institutions A Good Career Path
- Is Medical/Dental Instruments A Good Career Path
- Is Military/Government/Technical A Good Career Path
- Is Clothing/Shoe/Accessory Stores A Good Career Path
- Is Ordnance And Accessories A Good Career Path
- Is Other Pharmaceuticals A Good Career Path
- Is Wholesale Distributors A Good Career Path
- Is Building Products A Good Career Path
- Is Electronic Components A Good Career Path
Author
Di has been a writer for more than half her life. Most of her writing so far has been fiction, and she’s gotten short stories published in online magazines Kzine and Silver Blade, as well as a flash fiction piece in the Bookends review. Di graduated from Mary Baldwin College (now University) with a degree in Psychology and Sociology.
