What Jobs Can You Get with an Environmental Science Degree?

An environmental science degree allows for a breadth of careers focused on environmental protection, sustainability or promoting health as we have seen already in our previous coursework. It is clear to us what constitutes sustainability jobs. In this article, we shall examine some of the most important career areas for an environmental science graduate and what these graduate employees are expected to do in such roles.

An environmental science degree opens doors across industries -- from government agencies to private consulting firms. The skills you gain in analyzing data; understanding complex systems, and solving real-world environmental challenges make you valuable in today's job market where sustainability is becoming a business priority.

- Dr. Tracy Freeman, Environmental Program Director at the EPA (2019)

1. Environmental Scientists and Specialists Jobs

Roles:

• Environmental Scientist: Conducts research to identify, control, and eliminate sources of pollutants
• Environmental Specialist: Works with government agencies and private companies to ensure compliance with environmental regulations
• Ecologist: Studies ecosystems to understand how organisms interact with their environment
• Biologist: Biologist researches the natural world to understand the impact of environmental changes on various species

Responsibilities:

• Collecting and analyzing environmental data
• Conducting field studies and environmental impact assessments
• Developing plans to mitigate environmental problems
• Ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations

Policy formulation serves as one of the core strategies for ensuring environmental protection by the Environmental Protection agency (EPA). Environmental regulations form the basis for administering the environmental laws passed by congress to citizens, corporate enterprises, state of local authorities, charitable foundations or any other interests and entities. We need to understand that NOAA also has a crucial role in climate related research and should not be overlooked.

2. Environmental Engineers Jobs

Roles:

• Environmental Engineer: Designs solutions to environmental problems such as waste management and pollution control are the responsibilities of environmental engineers.
• Water Resources Engineer: Manages and designs systems for water resources and quality.
• Air Quality Engineer: Develops strategies to improve and maintain air quality.
• Sustainability Engineer: Implementing sustainable practices in engineering projects are the main responsibilities of sustainability engineers.

Responsibilities:

• Developing technologies to reduce pollution and waste.
• Designing systems for water and air quality management.
• Implementing sustainable engineering practices.
• Conducting environmental impact assessments.

3. Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Professionals Jobs

Roles:

• Environmental Health and Safety Manager: Oversees health and safety programs in various organizations.
• Safety Specialist: Safety specialist ensures workplace safety and compliance with health regulations.
• Industrial Hygienist: Identifies and mitigates workplace hazards.
• EHS Coordinator: EHS coordinator implements environmental health and safety programs.

Responsibilities:

• Developing and implementing safety programs.
• Conducting safety inspections and audits.
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Training employees on safety practices.

4. Conservation Scientists and Foresters

Roles:

• Conservation Scientist: Manages natural resources to protect the environment
• Forester: Manages forested lands for conservation and resource extraction
• Wildlife Manager: Ensures the conservation and management of wildlife populations
• Natural Resource Manager: Oversees the sustainable use of natural resources

Responsibilities:

• Developing conservation plans.
• Managing forest and wildlife resources.
• Conducting field research on natural habitats.
• Implementing sustainable resource management practices.

Conservation efforts in Europe, overseen by organizations like the European Environment Agency (EEA); play a crucial role in preserving natural habitats and biodiversity. To learn more about the EEA's nature conservation efforts, you can explore their dedicated page on nature conservation.

5. Environmental Consultants Jobs

Roles:

• Environmental Consultant: Providing expert advice on environmental policies and practices are the main responsibilities of environmental consultants.
• Sustainability Consultant: Advises on sustainable business practices.
• Environmental Planner: Develops plans for land use and environmental protection.
• Risk Assessor: Evaluates environmental risks for various projects.

Responsibilities:

• Conducting environmental assessments and audits.
• Advising businesses and governments on environmental best practices.
• Developing sustainability strategies.
• Assessing and mitigating environmental risks.

6. Urban Planners

Roles:

• Urban Planner: Develops plans for land use and urban development.
• Sustainability Planner: Focuses on creating sustainable urban environments.
• Regional Planner: Manages land use planning at a regional level.
• Transportation Planner: Plans sustainable transportation systems.

Responsibilities:

• Creating land use plans and zoning regulations.
• Developing strategies for sustainable urban development.
• Conducting research on urban and regional development.
• Engaging with communities and stakeholders.

7. Environmental Educators and Outreach Specialists

Roles:

• Environmental Educator: Teaches about environmental science and sustainability.
• Outreach Coordinator: Promotes environmental awareness in communities.
• Public Relations Specialist for Environmental Issues: Manages communication regarding environmental initiatives.
• Community Engagement Specialist: Works with communities on environmental projects.

Responsibilities:

• Designing and delivering educational programs.
• Conducting outreach and public awareness campaigns.
• Engaging with the community on environmental issues.
• Promoting sustainable practices.

8. GIS Specialists and Analysts

Roles:

• GIS Analyst: Uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze spatial data.
• Geospatial Scientist: Studies the spatial aspects of natural and human-made environments.
• Cartographer: Creates maps and spatial visualizations.
• Remote Sensing Specialist: Analyzes data from satellite and aerial imagery.

Responsibilities:

• Analyzing spatial data to support environmental decision-making.
• Creating maps and spatial models.
• Conducting spatial research on environmental issues.
• Using remote sensing technology for environmental monitoring.

What entry-level environmental jobs are available?

• Sustainability Coordinator - Help organizations implement eco-friendly practices and reduce environmental impact. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% growth in sustainability coordinator jobs from 2020-2030.
• Environmental Educator - Teach students of all ages about conservation, natural resources, and environmental stewardship. According to the North American Association for Environmental Education, over 15,000 environmental education jobs exist in the U.S.
• Park Ranger - Blend scientific knowledge with hands-on work in parks and protected natural areas. The National Park Service employs over 20,000 park rangers across the country.
• Environmental Technician - Collect field samples, monitor compliance with regulations, and assist with environmental testing and analysis. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $50,230 for environmental science and protection technicians.
• Environmental Coordinator - Develop and implement sustainability programs, manage waste disposal, and track environmental metrics for organizations. Many colleges and universities employ environmental coordinators to lead campus greening initiatives.

Can environmental scientists work in the private sector?

Absolutely. While many environmental science graduates pursue government or non-profit roles, the private sector also offers ample opportunities. As environmental consultants, they advise businesses on regulatory compliance, site assessments, and sustainability strategies. Environmental analysts collect and interpret data to help companies minimize their ecological footprint. And in management positions, environmental science degree-holders oversee operations, supply chains, and risk mitigation from a sustainability lens.

What government agencies hire environmental science graduates?

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Work in areas like pollution control, ecosystem protection, and environmental policy. The EPA employs over 15,000 people across the country
• United States Geological Survey (USGS) - Contribute to research, data collection, and conservation initiatives. The USGS has a budget of over $1.3 billion and operates nearly 400 science centers
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - Support research, data collection, and conservation efforts. NOAA has a workforce of over 12,000 employees and a budget of $5.9 billion
• U.S. Forest Service - Manage and protect national forests and grasslands, conducting research and monitoring ecological conditions. The U.S. Forest Service employs over 30,000 people nationwide
• State Environmental Agencies - Work for state-level departments of environmental protection, natural resources, or conservation, enforcing regulations and implementing environmental programs. All 50 U.S. states have their own environmental agencies

How can an environmental science degree lead to a policy career?

An effort can be made to consolidate inter agency contacts between scientists, politicians and business people. While graduates are not great fans of politics, many do tend to practice lobbying, sponsoring and supporting proposed laws, bills and other regulations that concern environmental protection. They may also change careers and work as elected representatives or policy advisors, integrating their understanding of the technical side into the political process.

Environmental scientists can also leverage their analytical skills to conduct research; that supports evidence-based policy decisions at the local, state, or federal level.

What non-profit roles suit environmental science backgrounds?

• Activist - Spearhead public awareness campaigns, organize community events, and mobilize support for conservation efforts. The Sierra Club, one of the largest environmental non-profits, has over 3.8 million members and supporters;
• Fundraiser - Secure the resources needed for non-profits to achieve their environmental mission. The Nature Conservancy, a prominent environmental non-profit, raised over $1.4 billion in 2021;
• Outreach Coordinator - Engage with the public, educate stakeholders, and build partnerships to drive positive environmental change. The National Resources Defense Council, a leading environmental advocacy group, has a network of over 3 million members and online activists;
• Grant Writer - Research funding opportunities, prepare grant proposals, and secure financial support for environmental non-profits. According to Charity Navigator, the environmental non-profit sector received over $16 billion in grants in 2020;
• Volunteer Coordinator - Recruit, train, and manage volunteers for environmental restoration projects, citizen science initiatives, and community outreach programs. Many non-profits rely on a strong volunteer base to accomplish their conservation goals;

Conclusion

Environmental science as a field of study certainly unlocks some of the most impactful careers which are employment focused towards preserving and promoting the planet. With education being at the core of transforming the future, the job market for the environmental scientist, environmental engineers, health and safety officers, consultants or even town planners, is ever promising with a good pay structure. The world has a dire need to explore and invest in renewable energies and Environmental jobs, which will become comforting factors. Researching about the future employment opportunities and potential average pay in these fields will certainly assist professionals in making valuable choices regarding the kind of work they wish to do, especially for people looking to work in the aforementioned fields.

It is clear that the new renewable energy jobs and Environmental jobs will have a much greater demand than seen previously. People who pursue such careers will be helping the world tackle some of the biggest environmental problems of our time and move it towards a future where it is still able to have life.

Suggested Read:

• 11 Ways to Monetize Environmental Expertise as a Green Entrepreneur
• 13 Ways to Future-Proof Your Career Through Green Skills
• 10 Reasons Why Sustainable Architecture is a Growing Field