Become An Environmental Specialist
Where do you want to work?
Working As An Environmental Specialist
- Getting Information
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
- Interacting With Computers
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Deal with People
Mostly Sitting
$55,000
Average Salary
What Does An Environmental Specialist 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.
DutiesEnvironmental scientists and specialists typically do the following:
- Determine data collection methods for research projects, investigations, and surveys
- Collect and compile environmental data from samples of air, soil, water, food, and other materials for scientific analysis
- Analyze samples, surveys, and other information to identify and assess threats to the environment
- Develop plans to prevent, control, or fix environmental problems, such as land or water pollution
- Provide information and guidance to government officials, businesses, and the general public on possible environmental hazards and health risks
- Prepare technical reports and presentations that explain their research and findings
Environmental scientists and specialists analyze environmental problems and develop solutions. For example, many environmental scientists and specialists work to reclaim lands and waters that have been contaminated by pollution. Others assess the risks that new construction projects pose to the environment and make recommendations to governments and businesses on how to minimize the environmental impact of these projects. Environmental scientists and specialists may do research and provide advice on manufacturing practices, such as advising against the use of chemicals that are known to harm the environment.
The federal government and many state and local governments have regulations to ensure that there is clean air to breathe, safe water to drink, and no hazardous materials in the soil. The regulations also place limits on development, particularly near sensitive ecosystems such as wetlands. Environmental scientists and specialists who work for governments ensure that the regulations are followed. Other environmental scientists and specialists work for consulting firms that help companies comply with regulations and policies.
Some environmental scientists and specialists focus on environmental regulations that are designed to protect people’s health, while others focus on regulations designed to minimize society’s impact on the ecosystem. The following are examples of types of specialists:
Climate change analysts study effects on ecosystems caused by the changing climate. They may do outreach education activities and grant writing typical of scientists.
Environmental health specialists study how environmental factors impact human health. They investigate potential environmental health risks. For example, they may investigate and address issues arising from soil and water contamination caused by nuclear weapons manufacturing. They also educate the public about potential health risks present in the environment.
Environmental restoration planners assess polluted sites and determine the cost and activities necessary to clean up the area.
Industrial ecologists work with industry to increase the efficiency of their operations and thereby limit the impacts these activities have on the environment. They analyze costs and benefits of various programs, as well as their impacts on ecosystems.
Other environmental scientists and specialists perform work and receive training similar to that of other physical or life scientists, but they focus on environmental issues. Environmental chemists are an example.
Environmental chemists study the effects that various chemicals have on ecosystems. For example, they look at how acids affect plants, animals, and people. Some areas in which they work include waste management and the remediation of contaminated soils, water, and air.
Many people with backgrounds in environmental science become postsecondary teachers or high school teachers.
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How To Become An Environmental Specialist
For most jobs, environmental scientists and specialists need at least a bachelor’s degree in a natural science.
EducationFor most entry-level jobs, environmental scientists and specialists must have a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a science-related field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, geosciences, or engineering. However, a master’s degree may be needed for advancement. Environmental scientists and specialists who have a doctoral degree make up a small percentage of the occupation, and this level of training is typically needed only for the relatively few postsecondary teaching and basic research positions.
A bachelor’s degree in environmental science offers a broad approach to the natural sciences. Students typically take courses in biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. Students often take specialized courses in hydrology or waste management as part of their degree as well. Classes in environmental policy and regulation are also beneficial. Students who want to reach the Ph.D. level and have a career in academia or as an environmental scientist doing basic research may find it advantageous to major in a more specific natural science such as chemistry, biology, physics, or geology, rather than a broader environmental science degree.
Students should look for classes and internships that include work in computer modeling, data analysis, and geographic information systems. Students with experience in these programs will be the best prepared to enter the job market. The University Consortium of Atmospheric Research (UCAR) offers several programs to help students broaden their understanding of environmental sciences.
Important QualitiesAnalytical skills. Environmental scientists and specialists base their conclusions on careful analysis of scientific data. They must consider all possible methods and solutions in their analyses.
Communication skills. Environmental scientists and specialists may need to present and explain their findings to audiences of varying backgrounds and to write technical reports.
Interpersonal skills. Environmental scientists and specialists typically work on teams with scientists, engineers, and technicians. Team members must be able to work together effectively to achieve their goals.
Problem-solving skills. Environmental scientists and specialists try to find the best possible solution to problems that affect the environment and people’s health.
Self-discipline. Environmental scientists and specialists may spend a lot of time working alone. They need to be able to stay motivated and get their work done without supervision.
AdvancementEnvironmental scientists and specialists often begin their careers as field analysts, research assistants, or technicians in laboratories and offices. As they gain experience, they earn more responsibilities and autonomy, and may supervise the work of technicians or other scientists. Eventually, they may be promoted to project leader, program manager, or other management or research position.
Other environmental scientists and specialists go on to work as researchers or faculty at colleges and universities.
Licenses, Certifications, and RegistrationsEnvironmental scientists and specialists can become Certified Hazardous Materials Managers through the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management. This certification, which must be renewed every 5 years, shows that an environmental scientist or specialist is staying current with developments relevant to this occupation’s work.
Work Experience in a Related OccupationSome environmental scientists and specialists begin their careers as scientists in related occupations, such as hydrology or engineering, and then move into the more interdisciplinary field of environmental science.
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Environmental Specialist jobs
Environmental Specialist Career Paths
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Senior Environmental Engineer 5.3 years
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Manager, Environmental And Safety 5.2 years
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Senior Environmental Scientist 5.2 years
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Environmental Engineering Manager 4.9 years
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Environmental Manager 4.5 years
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Environmental Health Specialist 4.3 years
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Environmental Protection Specialist 4.3 years
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Environmental Health Safety Manager 4.2 years
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Environmental Compliance Manager 4.0 years
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Environmental Engineer 4.0 years
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Environmental Program Manager 4.0 years
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Environmental Project Manager 3.9 years
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Environmental Supervisor 3.7 years
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Environmental Coordinator 3.7 years
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Environmental Compliance Specialist 3.5 years
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Environmental Programs Specialist 3.3 years
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Environmental Safety Specialist 3.2 years
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Environmental Management Specialist 3.1 years
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Environmental Compliance Officer 3.1 years
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Environmental Scientist 3.1 years
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Environmental Specialist 3.0 years
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Environmental Consultant 2.9 years
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Environmental Specialist Lead 2.8 years
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Environmental Analyst 2.8 years
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Environmental Technician 2.6 years
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Environmental Assistant 1.9 years
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Environmental Engineering Internship 0.6 years
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Internship 16.5%
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Research Assistant 7.9%
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Project Manager 6.5%
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Cashier 4.5%
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Sales Associate 3.6%
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Teaching Assistant 3.5%
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Supervisor 3.3%
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Assistant Manager 3.1%
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Field Technician 3.1%
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Chemist 3.0%
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Volunteer 2.8%
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Environmental Scientist 11.7%
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Project Manager 11.4%
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Manager 5.3%
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Consultant 4.5%
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Safety Specialist 4.1%
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Specialist 3.9%
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Safety Manager 3.6%
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Sales Associate 3.3%
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Owner 3.1%
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Program Manager 3.0%
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Volunteer 3.0%
Average Length of Employment
Top Careers Before Environmental Specialist
Top Careers After Environmental Specialist
Environmental Specialist Demographics
Gender
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Male
59.9% -
Female
38.2% -
Unknown
1.9%
Ethnicity
-
White
82.0% -
Hispanic or Latino
8.9% -
Asian
6.7% -
Unknown
1.8% -
Black or African American
0.6%
Languages Spoken
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Spanish
60.2% -
French
8.6% -
Italian
4.7% -
German
3.1% -
Navajo
2.3% -
Carrier
2.3% -
Comanche
2.3% -
Dakota
2.3% -
Russian
1.6% -
Portuguese
1.6% -
Chinese
1.6% -
Czech
1.6% -
Japanese
1.6% -
Arabic
1.6% -
Swahili
0.8% -
Vietnamese
0.8% -
Deseret
0.8% -
Dutch
0.8% -
Mandarin
0.8% -
Ukrainian
0.8%
Environmental Specialist
Unfortunately we don’t have enough data for this section.
Environmental Specialist Education
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Columbia Southern University
9.8% -
Texas A&M University
8.6% -
University of Phoenix
7.4% -
Florida State University
7.0% -
University of South Florida
6.3% -
University of Maryland - University College
5.6% -
University of West Florida
4.9% -
Community College of the Air Force
4.7% -
University of Missouri - Columbia
4.4% -
University of Central Florida
4.2% -
University of Florida
4.2% -
West Virginia University
4.0% -
Oklahoma State University
4.0% -
Louisiana State University and A&M College
3.7% -
Eastern Kentucky University
3.7% -
University of Georgia
3.7% -
Murray State University
3.5% -
Pennsylvania State University
3.5% -
Northern Arizona University
3.5% -
University of Denver
3.5% -
Environmental Science 23.9%
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Biology 11.9%
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Business 9.5%
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Geology 7.7%
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Public Health 6.5%
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Chemistry 4.2%
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Geography 3.2%
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Management 2.6%
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Criminal Justice 2.3%
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Civil Engineering 2.1%
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Chemical Engineering 2.1%
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Law 1.6%
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Nursing 1.5%
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General Studies 1.4%
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Bachelors
43.7% -
Masters
26.9% -
Other
14.9% -
Associate
6.5% -
Certificate
4.1% -
Doctorate
3.0% -
Diploma
0.8% -
License
0.1%
Schools
Majors
Degrees
Environmental Specialist
Unfortunately we don’t have enough data for this section.
Real Environmental Specialist Salaries
Job Title
|
Company
|
Location
|
Start Date
|
Salary
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Specialist | Chevron Corporation | Houston, TX | Apr 01, 2014 | $121,000 |
| Environmental Specialist, Senior | Newmont Cripple Creek & Victor Mining Company | Victor, CO | Jul 15, 2016 | $120,000 |
| Environmental Specialist | Texas Instruments Incorporated | Santa Clara, CA | Jun 21, 2016 | $115,000 |
| Environmental Specialist | Texas Instruments Incorporated | Santa Clara, CA | Jul 13, 2015 | $115,000 |
| Air Environmental Specialist/Engineer | Genon Energy Services LLC | Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Mar 01, 2013 | $110,090 |
| Air Environmental Specialist/Engineer | Genon Energy Services, LLC | Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Jun 23, 2013 | $110,090 |
| Associate-Environmental Specialist, Senior | BOOZ Allen Hamilton Inc. | Washington, DC | Apr 09, 2014 | $106,090 |
| Lead Associate-Environmental Specialist | BOOZ Allen Hamilton Inc. | Washington, DC | Nov 14, 2014 | $105,000 |
| Environmental Specialist | Suncor Energy (U.S.A.) Inc. | Commerce City, CO | Nov 29, 2014 | $104,000 |
| Environmental Specialist | Chemtron Supply Corporation | Saint Charles, MO | Jan 15, 2016 | $103,000 |
| Environmental Specialist | E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. | Emeryville, CA | Dec 16, 2013 | $85,280 |
| Environmental Specialist | Tisch Environmental, Inc. | Cleves, OH | Nov 17, 2016 | $83,782 |
| Environmental Specialist | Praxair, Inc. | Deer Park, TX | Apr 13, 2015 | $82,126 |
| Staff Environmental Specialist (Green House Gases) | Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc. | Irving, TX | Jun 25, 2015 | $80,693 |
| Staff Environmental Specialist | Arcadis U.S., Inc. | Edison, NJ | Jan 18, 2013 | $66,269 |
| Staff Environmental Specialist | Arcadis U.S., Inc. | Minneapolis, MN | Jan 17, 2015 | $65,686 |
| Environmental Specialist | Tisch Environmental Inc. | Cleves, OH | Oct 09, 2016 | $64,000 |
| Staff Environmental Specialist | Arcadis U.S., Inc. | Minneapolis, MN | Oct 01, 2014 | $63,710 |
| Environmental Specialist | TRC Environmental Corporation | Houston, TX | Sep 14, 2013 | $63,215 |
| Environmental Specialist 2 | Arcadis U.S., Inc. | Houston, TX | Dec 08, 2014 | $62,700 |
| Environmental Specialist | Erm-West, Inc. | Bakersfield, CA | Sep 13, 2013 | $61,000 |
| Environmental Specialist 1 | Arcadis U.S., Inc. | Seattle, WA | Feb 22, 2013 | $51,522 |
| Environmental Specialist 1 | Arcadis U.S., Inc. | Birmingham, AL | Mar 01, 2013 | $50,482 |
| Environmental Affairs Specialist | Martrex Inc. | Minnetonka, MN | Jan 30, 2014 | $50,395 - $61,593 |
| Environmental Specialist | Integra Communications, LLC | IL | Sep 20, 2013 | $50,318 |
| Environmental Specialist | Tomar Construction, LLC | East Brunswick, NJ | Sep 17, 2014 | $50,253 |
| Environmental Specialist | Rew Group, LLC | Houston, TX | Sep 24, 2013 | $50,000 |
| Environmental Specialist | Bleyl & Associates | Conroe, TX | Feb 09, 2016 | $50,000 |
| Environmental Science Specialist | Azure Knowledge Corportation | Piscataway, NJ | Sep 16, 2015 | $50,000 |
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Top Skills for An Environmental Specialist
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Top Environmental Specialist Skills
- Environmental Compliance
- Safety
- Procedures
- Interviewed on-site personnel regarding the environmental compliance history of each site.
- Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge, experience, and outstanding performance within the field of health and safety.
- Conducted monthly team meetings across four shifts to cover various HURT topics and response procedures.
- Advised municipalities relative to regulatory compliance and the construction and operation of all solid and hazardous waste facilities.
- Escalated discussion to department, management and/or operational teams for complex issues.
Top Environmental Specialist Employers
Florida Department of Health
Florida Department of Environmental Protection
AARC Environmental, Inc.
SHRI Vallabh Krupa Inc.
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Environmental Specialist Videos
What Can You Do with Public Health Degree
Public Historian (Environmental Specialist), Career Video from drkit.org
Career Advice on becoming a Health and Safety Manager by Hamish B (Full Version)