Environmental scientists and specialists evaluate how human activity affects the natural world and work to protect public health and the environment. The work is investigative and data-driven. You'll need a bachelor's degree and a strong foundation in science.
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Environmental scientists and specialists study the impact of human activity on air, water, soil, and ecosystems. You evaluate information to determine compliance with environmental standards and regulations. You collect and analyze data from field sites and laboratories, identify environmental problems, and communicate findings to organizations and the public. Your work involves reading scientific literature, using computers to model environmental systems, and staying current with environmental law and public safety requirements. You may testify about environmental conditions or recommend solutions to reduce pollution and protect natural resources.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health earn a median of $82,220 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 8,500 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Your coursework will cover biology, environmental law, and computer systems used in environmental analysis. This is a considerable preparation level, meaning you should expect to develop specialized knowledge and skills beyond general education. During your degree, seek internships with environmental agencies or consulting firms. Strong reading comprehension and active listening skills will help you absorb complex scientific material and work effectively with colleagues and clients.
Most paths to this career start with a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field. If you're deciding where to study or how to build your foundation, Pathly can map the environmental scientist and specialist, including health path that fits you to map out your next steps with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as an environmental scientist and specialist, including health, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're drawn to investigative work that uses science and data to solve real problems. You're curious about how systems work and comfortable with research, analysis, and detailed communication.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).