Introduction
Passionate about saving the environment but discouraged because others tell you it is not a career? The world is changing and it needs problem solvers who can address current and future environmental challenges. The climate crisis is impacting every aspect of the planet, and ecological scientists are needed now more than ever. On a global scale, as fossil fuels increase greenhouse emissions, environmental issues need to be solved quickly and effectively. This blog outlines how you can build a profitable career in environmental science with the right education and skill set.
Latest Trends in Environmental Science
Environmental science professions including specialists and scientists, work in laboratories and offices and use their knowledge to protect the environment. Depending on the job role, you may work in the field gathering data and monitoring environmental conditions or work in an office setting doing critical data analysis. According to the Bureau of Labour and Statistics, environmental scientist jobs are expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from 2022 to 2032.
Environmental studies, which was often considered to be a pedagogy of holistic knowledge, is now considered one of the top careers of the future. Both the government and private sector need environmental consultants that can help them upgrade their green practices. Environmental science occupations enable you to make a visible difference, improving the quality of all lives.
In the age of sustainability, businesses are looking for environmental leaders who can help them achieve net zero emissions targets. Apart from knowledge about biology, physics, and chemistry, you must develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to set yourself apart amidst the competition.
Top 6 In-Demand Environmental Science Positions
With a degree in environmental science, you can open up doors for numerous environmental science employment opportunities. Depending on what you are passionate about, you can work with:
- Wildlife conservation,
- Forest preservation,
- Urban planning and development,
- Or even be a part of the corporate world as an environmental consultant.
An environmental scientist in India can earn from Rs. 1.6 lakh to Rs. 8 lakh per year based on experience and position.
To get started in the environmental science occupations, you will need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or environmental engineering. As long as you are passionate about environmental protection and conservation, you can get started in this industry with a bachelor’s degree in a related field like chemical, civil, physical science, biology, zoology, etc.
Let’s delve deeper into the lucrative jobs for environmental scientists.
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Environmental Scientist
The primary role of an environmental scientist is to identify hazards in the ecosystem that affect the natural environment. The job involves collecting data, analysing samples, and creating reports on the findings. The type of analysis and reports depends on the job nature and the stakeholders involved. These environmental scientists are needed to understand the existing ecosystem and how the environment is likely to change in the near future.
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Wildlife Biologist
Animals form a significant part of the ecosystem, and many wildlife are under the threat of extinction. Wildlife biologists explore the ecosystems and behaviours of animals, their health, and their dynamics. Understanding how human activities impact wildlife is crucial for urban expansion. Environmental experts research wildlife habitats and collect and analyse data to create conservation strategies to manage wildlife populations. You can work for government agencies, research institutions, zoos, and other environmental organisations to protect marine and tropical wildlife.
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Environmental Health Officer
Rapid urbanisation puts the ecosystem and environment at risk. Environmental health officers are required to monitor public and ecological health standards to ensure public safety, injury prevention, and pollution control. Often, they work with public sector companies enforcing standards. From creation to implementation, environmental health officers play a crucial role in ensuring environmental safety.
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Chief Sustainability Officer
Businesses are under pressure to become environmentally sustainable. Enforcing sustainability practices is the need of the hour, and it can impact a business’s bottom line. The Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) ensures that the business practices follow sustainability standards. They create strategies for the companies to incorporate into their day-to-day operations. They work alongside management teams to improve the overall impact on the environment.
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Environmental Consultant
Non-profit organisations, business enterprises, and government agencies look up to environmental consultants to help them implement the best practices to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They assess the risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure continuous compliance with ecological standards. It covers multiple aspects of environmental preservation, such as pollution reduction, waste management, and resource conservation. You can work across various industries as an environmental consultant, making a difference in the way the organisations impact the environment.
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Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers apply advanced environmental knowledge and combine engineering, science, and mathematics to create solutions for different types of environmental issues. Their role is crucial in air pollution control, wastewater management, waste disposal, resource conservation, and environmental health. They are needed in areas where the sites are at risk due to industrial activities.
Conclusion
Building a career in environmental science starts with getting a degree in a related field like environmental science, ecology, biology, geology, etc. With valuable internships, volunteer work, etc., you can get started with entry-level positions. Gaining hands-on experience is crucial because, with environmental science, you solve real-world problems that will differ in multiple scenarios. As you build technical skills, proficiency in using analysis tools, and work experience, you can tackle complex challenges effectively. With a doctorate degree, you can also become an environmental scientist and work on high-level research projects to change the world.
Wondering what to do with your environmental science degree? Change the world for the better! Explore an array of opportunities to build a career in environmental science with guidance from Mindler experts.
