An Environmental Science Professor is an academic specialist who teaches and conducts research in environmental science. They focus on the study of the environment, examining the impact of human activities on ecosystems and finding sustainable solutions.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 4.2% (above average)
Annual job openings: 700
Direct AI exposure: 20% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 65% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $95K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $58K per year | $70K per year | $95K per year | $127K per year | $164K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $44K above the national average. | ||||
Environmental Science Professors work primarily in colleges and universities, teaching in classrooms, laboratories, and sometimes conducting fieldwork in various environments. They also spend time in offices for research, administrative tasks, and academic meetings.
Environmental Science Professors play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of environmental issues and potential solutions. They are responsible for educating students on ecological principles, environmental challenges, and sustainability practices. Their teaching methods often include a mix of lectures, laboratory work, and field research, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the field.
Research is a significant part of their role, with many professors undertaking projects that address critical environmental problems. This research can influence policy, improve environmental practices, and increase public awareness of environmental issues. The ability to secure funding and publish research findings in scientific journals is key to their professional success and contribution to the field.
In addition to teaching and research, these professors are often involved in academic service activities, such as curriculum development, serving on committees, and participating in public outreach. They may also collaborate with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector entities to apply their research findings to real-world environmental challenges.
Becoming an Environmental Science Professor typically requires a Ph.D. in Environmental Science or a related field, which involves about 8-10 years of post-secondary education, including undergraduate and graduate studies.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.