Career Choice: Environmental Scientist

What do Environmental Scientists do?

These scientists study the earth and how it changes. Some find ways to protect the environment. Some predict volcanoes, earthquakes, and other dangerous earth events. Others find oil and gas in the earth.

Environmental scientists find and fix pollution and other environmental problems. They figure out what is in the air, water, and soil to make sure that the environment is safe. They also give advice on how to clean the environment. For example, they might design a safe way to get rid of trash.

Some of these workers mix environmental science with other sciences, such as chemistry or biology. Environmental chemists find out if different chemicals hurt the environment. Environmental biologists focus on protecting animals and plants.

Some environmental scientists help to make laws about protecting the environment. They also help companies follow the laws. Environmental scientists work in laboratories and offices. They also work outside, taking measurements. They use math and computers.

Geoscientists study the earth and what it is made of. Some try to figure out the history of the earth by looking at rocks and fossils. Many try to find oil and gas inside the earth using science, math, computers, and high-tech measuring tools. They spend time outside, finding rocks, making maps, and taking measurements with special outdoor instruments.

They also work in laboratories. They might use lab instruments to study the chemicals in a rock. They might also do experiments about how water or oil flows through rocks.

Geoscientists have different names depending on they type of work they do. Geophysicists, for example, use physics to study the Earth, gravity, and magnetism.

Hydrologists study how water moves in lakes and rivers and inside the earth. They also study what is in the water.

Oceanographers study how water moves in the ocean. They study how heat and wind change the ocean and how the ocean changes the environment. They also study the chemicals in the ocean. And they study the ocean floor.

Mineralogists study minerals and precious stones and how to find them in the earth.

Engineering geologists help to prevent landslides and other dangers. They also help people find safe places on the earth to put roads and buildings.

Environmental scientists sometimes work long hours. Some travel to far away places in trucks and helicopters. They might dig dirt, chip rocks, or do other physical things. Scientists who look for oil often work in foreign countries.

In addition to doing science, many of these workers write reports and help find money for their projects.

How do I prepare to become a Environmental Scientist?

In university, these workers study geography, environmental science, chemistry, biology, earth science, and physics. They also study math and statistics so that they can understand measurements and data. People who want to make laws about protecting the environment also take law classes.

In addition to taking classes, scientists have to learn how to work with other people. They also need to practice speaking and writing so that they will be able to explain their research.

Workers also need computer skills. And they need to know about the latest tools and technology for studying the earth.

Students can start getting ready now by taking science, math, and computer classes. They can also read books about rocks, the earth, and the environment.

What are the earning potentials?

Weekly Earnings (full time and before tax)

• $980 - All Ages
• $723 - Ages 20-24

Source: ABS Employee Earnings, Benefits and Trade Union Membership, August 2003.

What are the Job prospects for Environmental Scientists?

• Very Good < Environmental Scientist
• Good
• Average
• Below Average
• Limited