Picture this: You’re analyzing water samples from a local river, using advanced equipment to detect potential contamination that could affect community health. Your findings will help shape policies that protect both the environment and public health.
Think about the last time you heard about air quality concerns or water contamination in your area. An Environmental Scientist and Specialist is the professional who investigates these issues, collects data, and recommends solutions to protect both human health and the environment.
They bring a unique combination of scientific expertise and practical problem-solving skills to address complex environmental challenges facing our planet.
Total Employment: 80,730 (2023)
Common Names for an Environmental Scientist and Specialist
- Environmental Science and Protection Technicians
- Environmental Engineers
- Conservation Scientists
- Hydrologists
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Climate Change Policy Analysts
- Environmental Restoration Planners
What Environmental Scientists and Specialists Do
Environmental Scientists and Specialists are professionals who identify, research, and develop solutions to environmental hazards and pollution that affect both the environment and public health. Their core responsibilities include:
- Environmental Analysis: Collect and analyze air, water, soil, and other environmental samples to identify threats to the environment and public health, ensuring compliance with regulations and scientific standards.
- Research Management: Design and conduct detailed environmental studies to assess potential risks, impacts, and solutions for environmental challenges, supporting evidence-based decision-making.
- Regulatory Compliance: Monitor facilities and environments for adherence to environmental laws, prepare documentation and ensure organizations meet local, state, and federal environmental regulations.
- Data Management: Compile environmental data through surveys, investigations, and inspections, developing comprehensive reports that inform policy decisions and corrective actions.
- Project Planning: Develop and oversee environmental protection programs and strategies, including waste management, sustainability initiatives, and pollution prevention measures.
- Stakeholder Communication: Present findings to stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and the public, translating complex environmental data into actionable recommendations.
- Risk Assessment: Evaluate threats to the environment and human health, determining the impact of potential hazards and developing mitigation strategies to protect communities and ecosystems.
- Technical Advisory: Provide expert guidance on environmental matters to organizations, helping them implement sustainable practices and minimize environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency.
Signup or login for free access!
Signing up is easy and takes about 1 minute.