National

Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or the health of the population. Utilizing knowledge of various scientific disciplines may collect, synthesize, study, report, and take action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.

Sample of reported job titles: Environmental Scientist, Environmental Specialist, Environmental Analyst, Environmental Protection Specialist, Hazardous Substances Scientist, Environmental Health and Safety Specialist, Environmental Manager, Research Environmental Scientist, Environmental Affairs Specialist, Environmental Health Specialist

Also see: Climate Change Analysts, Environmental Restoration Planners, Industrial Ecologists

Tasks

• Collect, synthesize, analyze, manage, and report environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological and mineralogical information, and soil or water samples.
• Analyze data to determine validity, quality, and scientific significance, and to interpret correlations between human activities and environmental effects.
• Communicate scientific and technical information to the public, organizations, or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions, or public hearings.
• Provide scientific and technical guidance, support, coordination, and oversight to governmental agencies, environmental programs, industry, or the public.
• Process and review environmental permits, licenses, and related materials.
• Review and implement environmental technical standards, guidelines, policies, and formal regulations that meet all appropriate requirements.
• Prepare charts or graphs from data samples, providing summary information on the environmental relevance of the data.
• Determine data collection methods to be employed in research projects and surveys.
• Investigate and report on accidents affecting the environment.
• Research sources of pollution to determine their effects on the environment and to develop theories or methods of pollution abatement or control.

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Tools & Technology

Tools used in this occupation:

Technology used in this occupation:

* Software developed by a government agency and/or distributed as freeware or shareware.