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Research & DevelopmentGrowingBright Outlook

Environmental Scientist and Specialist, Including Health

Mid-level

Also known as: Air Analyst, Ecological Modeler, Environmental Analyst, Environmental Consultant

Research & DevelopmentBachelor's Degree

Job Description

Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. 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.
Environmental SciencePublic HealthEnvironmental HealthPollution ControlSustainabilityScientific ResearchData AnalysisResearchScienceEnvironment

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

In-demand software
ESRI ArcGIS softwareGeographic information system GIS systemsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft Word

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Bright Outlook

O*NET flags this career as a Bright Outlook occupation: grows rapidly over the next decade.

Projected growth

+6.1%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

7,300

per year (US)

Jobs today

93,400

in 2025 → 99,200 (2035)

Typical entry education

Bachelor's degree

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
High
Working outdoors
Moderate
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
High
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Growing Job Market

This field is experiencing expansion with increasing job opportunities and career advancement potential. Market demand is rising, with new positions being created.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Environmental Technician
  • Laboratory Assistant
  • Field Monitor

Where it can lead

  • Environmental Manager
  • Senior Research Scientist
  • Environmental Policy Analyst

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will significantly impact environmental scientists by enhancing data analysis, predictive modeling, and remote monitoring capabilities. AI-powered tools can process vast amounts of environmental data, identify patterns, predict pollution events, and optimize remediation strategies. This will allow scientists to focus more on complex problem-solving and strategic planning, making their work more efficient and impactful in the next 5-10 years.