Environmental Scientists and Specialists, 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.
SOC: 19-2041.00
Common Job Titles
Environmental Programs Specialist
Environmental Protection Specialist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Specialist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign environmental investigation protocols and sampling strategies for identifying and quantifying sources of contamination across diverse ecosystems.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize multidisciplinary scientific data into comprehensive environmental assessment reports integrating field observations, laboratory analyses, and geospatial information using GIS software.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate environmental data against regulatory standards and compliance requirements using interdisciplinary scientific knowledge across air, soil, and water quality assessments.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze pollutant sources and hazard pathways synthesizing measurements from field sampling and laboratory results to determine environmental and public health impacts.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate environmental monitoring equipment including spectrometers, gas chromatographs, and water quality instruments in field and laboratory settings following established protocols.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess complex environmental problems involving multiple pollutants and ecological systems applying knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics to recommend remediation actions.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate evidence-based environmental protection measures when communicating with regulatory agencies, industry stakeholders, and public audiences.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute environmental sample collection procedures for air, soil, water, and sediment in diverse field environments using appropriate sampling equipment and maintaining chain of custody.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret environmental monitoring data and modeling outputs for non-technical audiences including community members and decision-makers under regulatory time constraints.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate environmental protection principles with stakeholder concerns when resolving conflicts between regulatory compliance and economic or social considerations.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
84,930
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $50,130. 25th percentile: U.S. $62,090. 50th percentile: U.S. $80,060. 75th percentile: U.S. $103,730. 90th percentile: U.S. $134,830. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$50,130
10% of workers earn the following or more
$134,830
Workers on average earn
$88,640
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
English Language4.5/5
Biology3.9/5
Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
Law and Government3.5/5
Computers and Electronics3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
