E XC L U S IVE F EAT U RE
Why environmental science jobs?
We need individuals to take up tasks related to environmental science to protect and preserve the
environment for future generations. Environmental science is generally defined as a biologically based
study that focuses on the relationship between the environment and various organisms on the planet.
This field has many career advancement options in numerous distinctive sectors, including hydrology,
environmental engineering, environmental science consulting and environmental science technology.
Here are some of the popular sectors of environmental science you might be interested in.
Animal
Science
If you are
passionate
about animals,
then this field is
for you. Animal
science involves studying the biology of
animals including reproduction, genetics,
nutrition, physiology, growth, behaviour
and management. Students will be
equipped with essential skills in animal
management and other relevant aspects.
There will be a lot of training and
research. Graduates can opt for careers
in agriculture or health organisations.
Courses in animal science usually require
advanced knowledge in biology and
chemistry. According to the US Bureau
of Labor Statistics, animal scientists can
expect an average income of US$61,680
per year.
Environmental Engineering
Environmental engineers typically
deal with issues like acid rain, global
warming and the thinning of the ozone
layer. If you are an environmental
engineer, you would be developing
solutions to environmental issues. This
can range from initiatives to encourage
recycling amongst the public to
planning environmental quality-control
checks. Environmental engineers are
most in demand in the manufacturing,
mining, wastewater management and
environment remediation industries.
Be informed that it is important that
you are interested in biology, physics,
chemistry and maths in order to be in
this sector. According to the Bureau
of Labor Statistics, environmental
engineers can expect to earn an
average of US$78,740 per year.
Hydrology
Hydrologists are required to do
in-depth research about the
properties and distribution of water.
In short, it involves going deep into
the Earth’s complex water cycle
to identify problems and provide
feasible solutions. In most cases,
hydrologists are required to have a
master’s degree or PhD to further
their careers. These individuals
usually work for natural resources
companies, civil and environmental
engineering firms, environmental
and forestry consulting firms, and
municipal, provincial/state and
federal government departments.
TV channels such as Discovery
Channel and National Geographic
would require hydrologists for their
TV programmes related to water.
Since water is one of our most
crucial natural resources, we will
need more hydrologists in the near
future. The US Bureau of Labor
Statistics estimates that hydrologists
can bring in an average income of
US$75,690 annually.
Environmental Science Technology
Environmental science technicians rely more on their observation and investigation
skills to deal with environmental issues that could pose potential harm to
humankind. This calls for environmental inspection, setting up and maintenance of
equipment used to check levels of pollution and communicating analytical findings
to the respective organisations or companies. You can expect to be working in the
fields of environmental engineering technology, safety management, design and
environmental consulting, loss control and industrial hygiene.
This field needs teamwork as environmental scientists or individuals of
relevant expertise will supervise the environmental science technicians and
evaluate their findings. Jobs in environmental science technology require good
skills in science subjects and math, due to the emphasis in data gathering and
analysis. As an environmental science technician, you can expect an average
pay of US$41,380 annually.
easyuni Guide 2014
Issue 2
37