Do you find yourself worrying about our Earth's future?

Do you love solving problems and conducting lab experiments?

If the answer is "yes!" then you might consider becoming an environmental scientist!

Animated earth with a plant growing out of it

What does an environmental scientist do?

Environmental scientists solve environmental problems for governments or businesses.

GIF with the text:

You might be thinking: OK, but how?

They...

  • gather environmental data (soil, water, air, etc.)

  • analyze data to determine problems that may have a negative environmental impact on things like plants and animals

  • create solutions, prevention plans, and conservation plans

  • advise businesses on lessening environmental problems

  • advise governments on environmental and conservation regulations

Where do environmental scientists work?

Scientist working in a lab.

  • in labs with the data gathered by technicians from various environments in the field

  • outdoors gathering samples

  • in offices (for example, governmental offices)

How do I become an environmental scientist?

A graduate dancing on campus

You'll need:

  • a minimum of a bachelor's degree in environmental science

  • core courses in biology, chemistry, geology, and math

  • lab and field experience, which you'll complete as part of your upper level courses

How much will I get paid?

Flaticon Icon

In the US, environmental scientists make a range of $46,200-192,070 with an average of $76,530 per year.

Flaticon Icon

In Canada, the pay range is $44,000 to $81,000 with an average of $57,047 per year.

Become an environmental scientist if...

  • you're analytical and enjoy solving problems that are impacting the earth such as reducing pollution or limiting climate change

  • you enjoy and are great at writing and communicating

  • you like to work on a team that's as passionate as you are about the health of the environment

You might want to consider another career if...

  • you want to work from home or a desk job

  • you like to work alone

  • you prefer to work in a comfortable setting or indoors

GIF of office worker hiding under a rock

Quiz

All four of the students below are passionate about the environment but aren't sure what career path to take. Who might make a good environmental scientist?

Take Action

GIF of hero with the text:

Are you ready to start your environmental science career?

License:

Your feedback matters to us.

This Byte helped me better understand the topic.

Get support to take action on this Byte