Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health

Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing.

Median Annual Wage: $42,190

Education: Bachelor's degree (44%); Master's degree (20%); Associate's degree (13%)

Projected Growth: Faster than average (15% to 21%)

Related Job Titles: Laboratory Technician; Environmental Technician; Environmental Specialist; Laboratory Specialist; Process Laboratory Specialist; Environmental Health Specialist; Sanitarian; Public Health Sanitarian; Industrial Pretreatment Program Specialist (IPP Specialist); Sanitarian Specialist

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health.

More Life, Physical, and Social Science Careers

  • Record test data and prepare reports, summaries, or charts that interpret test results.
  • Develop or implement programs for monitoring of environmental pollution or radiation.
  • Discuss test results and analyses with customers.
  • Set up equipment or stations to monitor and collect pollutants from sites, such as smoke stacks, manufacturing plants, or mechanical equipment.
  • Maintain files, such as hazardous waste databases, chemical usage data, personnel exposure information, or diagrams showing equipment locations.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health.

  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
  • Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health.

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