How to Be an Environmental Scientist

As the crusade to keep the world green continues, you may be thinking of taking a bigger role. What if you went beyond recycling and actually cleaned up pollution?

Since the 1970s when the environment became a major concern, the environmental industry has continued to flourish.

If you're thinking about becoming an environmental scientist, read on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• College Degree (Recommended)
• Resume

1. Education
   
   
   
   If you're starting out, you'll want to get a four-year degree. For more seasoned professionals, you may be able to approach some companies or organizations and play on your experience. Most environmental scientists will need to have a strong background in chemistry and biology. Researching good environmental programs will give you a great idea of what's involved.
2. Research
   
   
   
   Most environmental scientists work for private consulting companies or government organizations. Look up environmental consultancies in your area. Consider working for your state's Department of Environmental Protection. If you want a less technical job, you can always work for a grassroots organization, but most of the money in the industry is in consulting.
3. Get Technical
   
   
   
   Most environmental scientists enjoy a flexible day of field work and time in the office. One thing you're going to need to do is to get some background in the technical regulations that govern the environmental arena you're entering. If you are going to work for an Underground Storage Tank (UST) company, consider learning about the many regulations that govern tank investigations and removals.
4. Write Right
   
   
   
   Think you'll only be digging in the dirt and remediating pollution? That may be true if you're an environmental technician, but an environmental scientist is also responsible for writing up technical reports. You'll want to brush up on your basic writing skills.
5. Learn--Out of the Classroom
   
   
   
   Taking an entry-level job in the industry offers the ability to learn from others--so take advantage. Your company may pay for important certifications and that's very helpful for years to come. There are plenty of ways to move up in the industry--so take baby steps.

Tips & Warnings

• Research environmental progams.
• Assess if you want to be doing field work or office work.