People worldwide are becoming more aware about the environment in which they live. Growing concerns about climate changes can affect not only the present but also future generations. This growth in awareness and concern has led to a need for more environmental scientists to help with research and analysis of the physical makeup and history of the Earth in order to protect the environment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov), in 2006 environmental scientists and hydrologists held about 92,000 jobs, with hydrologists accounting for 9 percent of that total. According to the same source, employment for environmental scientists and hydrologists will grow much faster than for the average occupations. Between 2006 and 2016, employment for environmental scientists is predicted to increase by 25 percent.
Education Requirements
To obtain a job doing research work about environmental science, the first step is to enroll in a related field. More colleges and universities are offering courses in environmental engineering and related studies. For entry-level positions, a bachelor’s degree in earth science may suffice. However, to be part of a research team, a master’s degree is preferable, especially in private industries, state and federal agencies, and state geological surveys. For teaching positions and advanced research positions, a doctoral degree is usually required. Suggested college courses include earth science, environmental engineering, environmental science, hydrology and related natural sciences. A bachelor’s degree in environmental science would involve the studies of natural science with emphasis on biology, chemistry and geology. Undergraduate courses would also include classes that focus on data analysis and physical geography that could help in landing future research positions. These courses can help with the study of pollution abatement, water resources, ecosystem protection, restoration and management. To pursue master’s (MS) and doctoral (PhD) degrees in environmental science, students should take classes that include the application of specific environmental knowledge that pertains to public environmental policy. Graduates can land such jobs as environmental researchers, marine biologists, conservationists, professors and environmental consultants.
Internships and Fellowships
Undergraduates, graduate students or recent graduates may apply for internships to obtain real world experience by doing hands-on research work. For example, look through postings in your school’s bulletin boards for companies that need interns. You may also go directly to the websites of companies that offer internships that relate to your courses. For example, the Smithsonian Institute offers several internship programs for undergraduate and graduate students. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (NASM) offers summer internships to learn more about earth and planetary science, while the Smithsonian Horticultural Services Division (HSD) offers paid and unpaid internships to learn about greenhouse productions as they relate to the environment, gardening, irrigation and collections management. The NASM also offers a Postdoctoral Earth and Planetary Sciences Fellowship with concentration on geologic and geophysical research of the Earth and other terrestrial planets. Visit nasm.si.edu for more information.
Job Hunting
Online job-hunting sites like BioSpace.com, post job openings for environmental researchers from companies like Sangamo BioSciences, Inc. and NGM Biopharmaceuticals. Classified ads of major newspapers or their websites nationwide can help you find a research position in environmental science. Visit the library to read classified ads published by local and non-local newspapers. Look for jobs classified under “Environmental Jobs.” Attend job fairs where environmental research companies participate. Send your resumes directly to companies that are hiring researchers or go to their websites to apply. Resources for the Future (rff.org) is a company that has hired environmental science researchers (visit the website by clicking on the link under “Resources”). Contact consulting or employment agencies; they may find companies that would be a possible match for you. Accept contract positions initially to gain experience. Consider applying for research assistant positions to start with and work your way up the ladder. Lastly, build your network. Sign up at career networking sites, such as LinkedIn, to meet fellow environmental scientists. Post your resumes on these sites and apply for inclusion in associations and groups that have members with similar or related fields of studies and interests. Hand out resumes and business cards to people you meet at career expos and environmental conferences.
References
Biospace.com: Biotech and Pharmaceutical News & Jobs
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook
Environmental Science Graduate and PhD Programs
Smithsonian Internship and Fellowships
