Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing.
SOC: 19-4042.00
Common Job Titles
Environmental Health Officer (EHO)
Environmental Technician (Environmental Tech)
Sanitarian
Soil Lab Technician (Soil Laboratory Technician)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate environmental samples and monitoring results against regulatory standards applying knowledge of chemistry, biology, and public safety requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize sampling schedules, field activities, and laboratory workflows managing multiple projects under time constraints and regulatory deadlines.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform field sampling of air, soil, water, and other environmental media using specialized monitoring equipment under the direction of environmental scientists or engineers.
Developing
Hands-onOperate laboratory analytical instruments including spectrophotometers, microscopes, and centrifuges following established testing protocols and quality control procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze environmental data from field and laboratory tests to identify pollution sources and assess compliance with environmental regulations.
Developing
KnowledgeApply scientific principles from chemistry, biology, and mathematics to conduct environmental assessments and interpret test results.
Developing
KnowledgePrepare technical documentation and sampling reports using database software, GIS systems, and Microsoft Office applications to communicate findings.
Developing
MindsetEngage with external stakeholders including regulatory officials and the public to explain environmental monitoring activities and address health and safety concerns.
Developing
KnowledgeInspect equipment, materials, and environmental conditions in field and laboratory settings to ensure data quality and procedural compliance.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate air sampling pumps, water quality meters, and monitoring instrumentation ensuring measurement accuracy according to standard operating procedures.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
39,390
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,130. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,050. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,490. 75th percentile: U.S. $64,170. 90th percentile: U.S. $85,630. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$36,130
10% of workers earn the following or more
$85,630
Workers on average earn
$56,770
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
English Language3.5/5
Chemistry3.5/5
Biology3.4/5
Law and Government3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
