Occupation information for

Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or the health of the population. 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.

Currently Employed: 1,874

Yearly Projected Openings: 60

Typical Hourly Wage: $44.27 - $65.75

Typical Annual Salary: $92,100 - $136,800

• Collect, synthesize, analyze, manage, and report environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological or mineralogical information, or soil or water samples.
• Analyze data to determine validity, quality, and scientific significance and to interpret correlations between human activities and environmental effects.
• Communicate scientific or technical information to the public, organizations, or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions, or public hearings.
• Provide scientific or technical guidance, support, coordination, or oversight to governmental agencies, environmental programs, industry, or the public.
• Process and review environmental permits, licenses, or related materials.
• Review and implement environmental technical standards, guidelines, policies, and formal regulations that meet all appropriate requirements.
• Prepare charts or graphs from data samples, providing summary information on the environmental relevance of the data.
• Determine data collection methods to be employed in research projects or surveys.
• Investigate and report on accidents affecting the environment.
• Research sources of pollution to determine their effects on the environment and to develop theories or methods of pollution abatement or control.

• Air samplers or collectors
• Radiation detectors
• Soil core sampling apparatus
• Water analyzers
• Water samplers

• Analytical or scientific software
• Compliance software
• Data base user interface and query software
• Graphics or photo imaging software
• Map creation software