Environmental Analysts

What do they do?

Environmental analysts conduct research studies to develop theories and methods of controlling enviornmental pollutants. They aid in the use and management of natural resources including soil, water, forests and plant life, wildlife, minerals, and air.

Work Activities

• Determine data collection methods to be used in research projects and surveys.
• Prepare charts, graphs, and statistical models to show findings of data.
• Identify and analyze sources of pollutants and determine effect on national resources.
• Establish standards and develop recommendations for control of problem.

Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of mathematical, statistical, and physcial science concepts and approaches.
• Skills in public speaking and persuasion.
• Knowledge of data collection methods.
• Ability to plan projects and analyze data.
• Ability to clearly describe results orally or in written reports.
• Ability to identify problems and develop solutions.
• Self-discipline and a high degree of academic ability is needed to enter research fields.

Work settings

Environment: Combination of work in field and in laboratories, classrooms, or offices.
Hours: Work 40 hours a week.
Employers: Government agencies, private industry, educational and research institutions, foundations, museums, community nature centers, zoos, and self-employed.

Employment & Wages

By 2000, it's estimated that 319 biological scientists will be employed in Nebraska. Growth and/or turnover create approximately 12 annual job openings. It's estimated that 56,000 environmental analysts will be employed in the U.S. by 2005.

Projected growth
Nebraska - Little change or more slowly than average, 8%
National - Much faster than average, 41%
Nebraska annual beginning wage: $17,000 to $23,000
Nebraska annual experienced wage: $23,000 to $30,000
National annual average wage: $18,000 to $30,000

Training

Opportunities are mainly open to college graduates who have specialized degrees.
A masters or doctorate degree may be necessary to advance in the field.
Applicants may gain valuable experience through internships, cooperative education programs, or volunteering for environmental groups.

Helpful high school subjects

High school subjects that may help prepare individuals for this occupation include English, composition, literature, biology, chemistry, earth science, physics, government, algebra I and II, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, foreign language, business and consumer law, geography, and computer applications.

Bibliography

Nebraska Career Information System: Occupations (1996-97 ed.), pp. 87-88.
Complete Guide for Occupational Exploration (1993 ed.), pp. 122-124.
Dictionary of Occupational Titles (4th ed. Revised, 1991), p. 42.
Occupational Outlook Handbook (1996-97 ed.), p. 103.