Environmental chemists: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
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. For example, environmental chemists study the effects that various chemicals have on ecosystems. To illustrate, they may study 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.
- Job Outlook
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The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 11% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Advancement
- As environmental scientists and specialists 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 some other management or research position.
- Licenses/Certifications
- Environmental 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 the occupations work. In addition, the Ecological Society of America offers several levels of certification for environmental scientists who wish to demonstrate their proficiency in ecology.
- Median pay: How much do Environmental Scientists and Specialists make?
- $68,910 Annual Salary
- $33.13 per hour
Careers for Environmental Scientists and Specialists
- Climate change analysts
- Ecological modelers
- Environmental analysts
- Environmental health and safety specialists
- Environmental restoration planners
- Environmental scientists
- Hazardous substances scientists
- Health environmentalists
- Industrial ecologists
- Water pollution scientists
- Water quality analysts