Similar careers
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.
An Environmental Scientist is a professional dedicated to studying and analyzing the natural environment, identifying problems, and developing solutions to protect human health and the ecosystem. They assess the impact of human activity on the environment and advise on policies and best practices for environmental conservation.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 6.1% (above average)
Annual job openings: 8,500
Direct AI exposure: 48% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 97% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $82K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $52K per year | $64K per year | $82K per year | $108K per year | $140K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $31K above the national average. | ||||
Environmental Scientists work in a variety of settings including government agencies, consulting firms, non-profit organizations, and private companies. Their work environment can range from offices for policy development and data analysis to fieldwork in diverse outdoor settings for sample collection and environmental assessments.
Environmental Scientists play a crucial role in understanding and addressing the challenges facing our planet. They combine knowledge from various scientific disciplines to evaluate environmental issues, such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Their work is essential in informing policy decisions, guiding sustainable practices, and raising public awareness about environmental issues.
The occupation demands a strong foundation in the sciences, analytical skills, and the ability to communicate findings effectively. Environmental Scientists often collaborate with other experts, including biologists, geologists, and chemists, to address complex environmental problems.
The field offers diverse career paths and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the environment and public health. Whether working on conservation projects, environmental impact assessments, or in regulatory compliance, Environmental Scientists contribute to a sustainable future.
A bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field is typically required, which is about 4 years of post-secondary education. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or Ph.D., adding 2-6 additional years of study.
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.
