Job Description of an Environmentalist
Environmentalists seek to help the government, corporations and the public make informed decisions regarding the use of natural resources. The job duties of an environmentalist can vary depending on the career specialty chosen. Environmentalists work for a wide variety of groups including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), private corporations and nonprofit organizations.
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Environmental Scientists
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Environmental scientists utilize science to identify issues and find solutions that minimize the human impact on the Earth. Some examples of research a scientist would engage in include identifying sources of pollution in groundwater or testing the quality of water in a river adjacent to a manufacturing plant. They write risk assessments on subjects such as potential impact of construction sites on ecosystems. This includes impact on species in a given area, such as endangered wildlife. They also give presentations to policymakers on their research and write technical proposals.
Environmental Lobbyists
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Environmentalists help determine green policy for companies, nonprofit agencies and the government so it is natural that some specialize in lobbying. An environmental lobbyist works to persuade government officials to pass green laws and regulations for a cleaner environment. They will engage in green advocacy and awareness training and campaigning, utilize the media and fund-raise for the organization or campaign they are working with.
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Qualifications
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All jobs typically require a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited school. Environmental scientists generally major in biology, entomology, chemistry, environmental science, botany, urban planning, agriculture and several other subjects. Political science, environmental science and social sciences are majors most often chosen by students seeking to become environmental lobbyists, but almost any four-year degree can allow for an entry-level position in this field. The EPA seeks expertise in fields ranging from biology to business and public administration for its Environmental Careers Program.
Salaries
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The average salary for environmental scientists is $59,750 as of May 2008. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,310 a year. The top 10 percent employed in the field made more than $102,610 a year. Environmental lobbyists can make $30,000 to $50,000 a year.
Major Employers
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Many environmental scientists are employed by the federal government, particularly the EPA. Consulting firms also hire environmentalists to work with private companies on green policy formation. Others conduct green research and teach at universities and colleges. Many environmental advocacy groups also hire environmental lobbyists to organize and launch campaigns for green policy advocacy.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit stock photography illustrating safe environment image by Ruslana Stovner from Fotolia.com
