Environmental scientists and geoscientists

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Environmental scientists and geoscientists use their knowledge of the physical makeup and history of the Earth to locate water, mineral and energy resources; protect the environment; predict future geologic hazards; and offer advice on construction and land use projects.

Environmental scientists conduct research to identify and abate or eliminate sources of pollutants that affect people, wildlife and their environments. They analyze and report measurements and observations of air, water, soil and other sources to make recommendations on how best to clean and preserve the environment. They often use their skills and knowledge to design and monitor waste disposal sites, preserve water supplies and reclaim contaminated land and water to comply with federal environmental regulations.

Geoscientists study the composition, structure and other physical aspects of the Earth. By using sophisticated instruments and analyses of the earth and water, geoscientists study the Earth's geologic past and present in order to make predictions about its future.

Geoscientists usually study one of several closely related fields of geoscience. Geologists study the composition, processes and history of the Earth. Geophysicists use the principles of physics, mathematics and chemistry to study the Earth's surface, its internal composition, ground and surface waters, atmosphere, oceans, and its magnetic, electrical and gravitational forces. Oceanographers use their knowledge of geology and geophysics, in addition to biology and chemistry, to study the world's oceans and coastal waters and how their properties affect coastal areas, climate and weather.

Numerous subdisciplines or specialties fall under the two major disciplines of geology and geophysics that further differentiate the type of work geoscientists do, including petroleum geologists, who explore for oil and gas deposits; volcanologists, who investigate volcanoes; paleontologists, who study fossils; geodesists, who study the size and shape of the Earth, its gravitational field, tides, polar motion and rotation; and seismologists, who interpret data to detect earthquakes and locate earthquake-related faults.

Hydrologists, whose work is closely related to the disciplines of geology and geophysics, study the quantity, distribution, circulation and physical properties of underground and surface waters. Their work is important in environmental preservation, remediation and flood control.

Fieldwork often requires working long hours, but workers are usually rewarded by longer than normal vacations. Environmental scientists and geoscientists in research positions with the federal government or in colleges and universities often are required to design programs and write grant proposals in order to continue their data collection and research. Consultants face similar pressures to market their skills and write proposals to maintain steady work.

Training and qualifications

A bachelor's degree in geology or geophysics is adequate for some entry-level geoscientist jobs, but more job opportunities and better jobs with good advancement potential usually require at least a master's degree in geology or geophysics. Environmental scientists require at least a bachelor's degree in hydrogeology; environmental, civil or geological engineering; or geochemistry or geology, but employers usually prefer candidates with master's degrees. A master's degree is required for most entry-level research positions in colleges and universities, federal agencies and state geological surveys. A Ph.D. is necessary for most high-level research positions.

Environmental scientists and geoscientists must have excellent interpersonal skills, because they usually work as part of a team. Strong oral and written communication skills also are important, because writing technical reports and research proposals are important aspects of the work. Knowledge of a second language is becoming an important attribute. Geoscientists must be inquisitive, logical and open-minded. Those involved in fieldwork must have physical stamina.

Job outlook

Employment of environmental scientists and hydrologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2010, while employment of geoscientists is expected to grow about as fast as the average. Driving the growth of environmental scientists and geoscientists will be the continuing need for companies and organizations to comply with environmental laws and regulations, particularly those regarding groundwater contamination and flood control.

Because construction — particularly office and retail — is sensitive to cyclical changes in the economy, architects will face particularly strong competition for jobs or clients during recessions and layoffs may occur.

Earnings

Environmental scientists and geoscientists held about 97,000 jobs in 2000. Environmental scientists accounted for 64,000 of the total; geoscientists, 25,000; and hydrologists, 8,000.

Median annual earnings of environmental scientists were $44,180 in 2000. Median annual earnings of geoscientists were $56,230 in 2000. Median annual earnings of hydrologists were $55,410 in 2000. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest number of environmental scientists in 2000 were as follows:

Federal government $59,590
Engineering and architectural services 43,920
Management and public relations 43,900
Local government 42,880
State government 39,330