Environmental Scientist

An Environmental Scientist environmental Scientists study the interactions between human activity and natural systems, conducting field research and analysing data to assess environmental risks. Writing impact assessments, advising on policy, and publishing findings shape a research-driven career. Protects public health and the environment by identifying and mitigating pollution, conserving natural resources, and informing sustainable development policies.

An Environmental Scientist earns a median of $80,000 per year in the US, typically ranging from $60,000 to $110,000.

To become an Environmental Scientist, a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, geology, or a related scientific field is typically required. Many roles prefer or require a master's degree or Ph.D. for advanced research and consulting positions.

Environmental Scientist roles tend to suit people who are highly conscientious — precise, organised and strong on follow-through (Conscientiousness 80/100) and open and curious — drawn to variety, ideas and new approaches (Openness 78/100). The traits that matter most in the role are Inquisitive, Methodical, Objective and Collaborative. Possesses a strong desire to understand complex natural systems and the impact of human activities. On interests, Environmental Scientist maps to an IRC Holland Code profile — people who enjoy conducting scientific investigations, working with data, and applying systematic methods to solve environmental problems tend to thrive in this role.

An Environmental Scientist role is usually a strong fit for these reasons. Strong Investigative and Realistic alignment, focusing on scientific research and hands-on fieldwork. High Conscientiousness is well-suited for the meticulous data analysis and report writing required. The role offers opportunities to contribute directly to environmental protection and policy development.

Environmental Scientist roles come with trade-offs worth weighing up. Requires resilience and objectivity when dealing with complex or controversial environmental issues. Fieldwork can sometimes involve physically demanding conditions and exposure to various elements.

Work as an Environmental Scientist is mostly mixed-based with hybrid arrangements common, semi-structured — a mix of set processes and self-directed work, a moderate pace and medium exposure to clients or stakeholders. Around 51% of the week is focused deep work.

Core skills for an Environmental Scientist include Environmental impact assessment, Data collection and analysis, Scientific research methodology, Report writing and communication and Regulatory compliance.

Common entry routes into Environmental Scientist roles include Environmental Science Intern, Laboratory Technician and Research Assistant.

From an Environmental Scientist role, common next steps include Senior Environmental Scientist and Environmental Project Manager; lateral moves include Environmental Policy Analyst.

The outlook for Environmental Scientist roles is currently rated growing. Job growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.

Traitstack rates automation risk for Environmental Scientist roles at 57 out of 100, which is moderate. Data analysis and initial report drafting for environmental impact assessments are increasingly AI-assisted, shifting human effort to nuanced policy formulation and stakeholder engagement. AI is most likely to take on analyze large environmental datasets for trends and anomalies, draft sections of environmental impact assessments and policy recommendations and predict environmental changes based on various models and data inputs. Conducting on-site field investigations and collecting samples, interpreting complex environmental data with local context and formulating nuanced policy recommendations considering social and economic factors stay with people. From data crunching to strategic environmental advocacy. That score measures how much of the work could change, not the likelihood the job disappears. It is Traitstack's current view, revisited as AI capability moves.