How to become an environmental scientist

Pathways to this career

1. Complete an undergraduate degree in environmental studies or applied science with a relevant major.
2. Ready for the next step? Further your career and specialise in a particular environmental area with a postgraduate degree.
3. Gain experience wherever and whenever you can. Seek out internships and partnership programs within government and local councils, or engineering, mining and energy firms.

What does an environmental scientist do?

Environmental scientists are scientists who study the environment and develop policies and plans for its protection. They conduct experiments in the lab, do hands-on field work, and research or teach at universities.

Duties and tasks

• Develop and implement suggestions and advice to ensure an environmentally sustainable future.
• Educate others about the need for conservation and environmentally sound practices and policies.
• Take inventory of plants and animals to inform environmental policy.
• Study and evaluate current environmental problems.
• Work on conservation and sustainability to ensure a healthy and robust environment.

Industry bodies

• The Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand
• Professionals Australia

Related jobs

• Air pollution analyst
• Botanist
• Chemist
• Ecologist
• Environmental conservation officer
• Environmental engineer
• Environmental health officer
• Environmentalist
• Land degradation analyst
• Landcare worker
• Life scientist
• Water quality analyst

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