Industrial Ecologists
19-2041.03
Updated 2022

Apply principles and processes of natural ecosystems to develop models for efficient industrial systems. Use knowledge from the physical and social sciences to maximize effective use of natural resources in the production and use of goods and services. Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.

Sample of reported job titles: Ecologist, Environmental Consultant, Environmental Protection Agency Counselor, Research Scientist, Researcher

Occupation-Specific Information

Tasks Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceCategoryTask
85
 
Core
Identify environmental impacts caused by products, systems, or projects.
85
 
Core
Identify or develop strategies or methods to minimize the environmental impact of industrial production processes.
84
 
Core
Analyze changes designed to improve the environmental performance of complex systems and avoid unintended negative consequences.
81
 
Core
Conduct environmental sustainability assessments, using material flow analysis (MFA) or substance flow analysis (SFA) techniques.
81
 
Core
Identify sustainable alternatives to industrial or waste-management practices.
79
 
Core
Review research literature to maintain knowledge on topics related to industrial ecology, such as physical science, technology, economy, and public policy.
79
 
Core
Redesign linear, or open-loop, systems into cyclical, or closed-loop, systems so that waste products become inputs for new processes, modeling natural ecosystems.
75
 
Core
Prepare technical and research reports, such as environmental impact reports, and communicate the results to individuals in industry, government, or the general public.
73
 
Core
Examine local, regional, or global use and flow of materials or energy in industrial production processes.
73
 
Core
Monitor the environmental impact of development activities, pollution, or land degradation.
72
 
Core
Build and maintain databases of information about energy alternatives, pollutants, natural environments, industrial processes, and other information related to ecological change.
72
 
Core
Perform analyses to determine how human behavior can affect, and be affected by, changes in the environment.
69
 
Core
Recommend methods to protect the environment or minimize environmental damage from industrial production practices.
68
 
Core
Translate the theories of industrial ecology into eco-industrial practices.
66
 
Core
Develop alternative energy investment scenarios to compare economic and environmental costs and benefits.
63
 
Core
Carry out environmental assessments in accordance with applicable standards, regulations, or laws.
62
 
Core
Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.
62
 
Core
Plan or conduct field research on topics such as industrial production, industrial ecology, population ecology, and environmental production or sustainability.
61
 
Core
Create complex and dynamic mathematical models of population, community, or ecological systems.
61
 
Core
Evaluate the effectiveness of industrial ecology programs, using statistical analysis and applications.
61
 
Core
Forecast future status or condition of ecosystems, based on changing industrial practices or environmental conditions.
60
 
Core
Review industrial practices, such as the methods and materials used in construction or production, to identify potential liabilities and environmental hazards.
59
 
Core
Apply new or existing research about natural ecosystems to understand economic and industrial systems in the context of the environment.
59
 
Core
Prepare plans to manage renewable resources.
59
 
Core
Identify or compare the component parts or relationships between the parts of industrial, social, and natural systems.
56
 
Core
Plan or conduct studies of the ecological implications of historic or projected changes in industrial processes or development.
56
 
Core
Research sources of pollution to determine environmental impact or to develop methods of pollution abatement or control.
56
 
Core
Perform environmentally extended input-output (EE I-O) analyses.
53
 
Core
Promote use of environmental management systems (EMS) to reduce waste or to improve environmentally sound use of natural resources.
51
 
Core
Investigate the impact of changed land management or land use practices on ecosystems.
52
 
Supplemental
Develop or test protocols to monitor ecosystem components and ecological processes.
49
 
Supplemental
Research environmental effects of land and water use to determine methods of improving environmental conditions or increasing outputs, such as crop yields.
47
 
Supplemental
Provide industrial managers with technical materials on environmental issues, regulatory guidelines, or compliance actions.
45
 
Supplemental
Conduct applied research on the effects of industrial processes on the protection, restoration, inventory, monitoring, or reintroduction of species to the natural environment.
37
 
Supplemental
Conduct scientific protection, mitigation, or restoration projects to prevent resource damage, maintain the integrity of critical habitats, and minimize the impact of human activities.
35
 
Supplemental
Investigate accidents affecting the environment to assess ecological impact.
35
 
Supplemental
Conduct analyses to determine the maximum amount of work that can be accomplished for a given amount of energy in a system, such as industrial production systems and waste treatment systems.
29
 
Supplemental
Investigate the adaptability of various animal and plant species to changed environmental conditions.
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Technology Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

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Tools Used Save Table: XLSX CSV

Occupational Requirements

Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceWork Activity
93
 
Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
91
 
Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
89
 
Working with Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
85
 
Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
84
 
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
77
 
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
76
 
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
72
 
Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
71
 
Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
69
 
Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
66
 
Communicating with People Outside the Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
66
 
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
65
 
Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
64
 
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
60
 
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
60
 
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
57
 
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
57
 
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
56
 
Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
52
 
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
51
 
Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
50
 
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
44
 
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
44
 
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
44
 
Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
44
 
Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
41
 
Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
41
 
Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
38
 
Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
37
 
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
36
 
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
29
 
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
26
 
Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
22
 
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
15
 
Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
14
 
Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
13
 
Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
12
 
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
10
 
Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
10
 
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
9
 
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Detailed Work Activities Save Table: XLSX CSV

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Work Context Save Table: XLSX CSV

  • Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
    • 87%
      87%
       
      Every day
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Every day
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
    • 52%
      52%
       
      A lot of freedom
    • 35%
      35%
       
      Some freedom
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Limited freedom
  • Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
    • 43%
      43%
       
      A lot of freedom
    • 39%
      39%
       
      Some freedom
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Limited freedom
  • Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Every day
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 43%
      43%
       
      More than half the time
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Extremely important
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Very important
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Important
  • Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
    • 52%
      52%
       
      More than 40 hours
    • 43%
      43%
       
      40 hours
  • Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Extremely important
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Very important
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Important
  • Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Constant contact with others
    • 35%
      35%
       
      Contact with others most of the time
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Contact with others about half the time
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Occasional contact with others
  • Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Every day
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 59%
      59%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Highly competitive
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Moderately competitive
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Slightly competitive
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Every day
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Never
  • Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 65%
      65%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Important results
    • 35%
      35%
       
      Moderate results
    • 26%
      26%
       
      Minor results
  • Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Extremely important
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Very important
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Important
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Fairly important
  • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
    • 23%
      23%
       
      High responsibility
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Moderate responsibility
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Limited responsibility
  • Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
    • 45%
      45%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 52%
      52%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Extremely important
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Important
    • 26%
      26%
       
      Fairly important
    • 26%
      26%
       
      Not important at all
  • Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
    • 50%
      50%
       
      Slightly close (e.g., shared office)
    • 32%
      32%
       
      I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
    • 38%
      38%
       
      Important
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Fairly important
    • 29%
      29%
       
      Not important at all
  • Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
    • 39%
      39%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 13%
      13%
       
      More than half the time
    • 13%
      13%
       
      About half the time
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Never
  • Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Moderate responsibility
    • 35%
      35%
       
      Limited responsibility
    • 30%
      30%
       
      No responsibility
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 39%
      39%
       
      Never
  • Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Serious
    • 50%
      50%
       
      Fairly serious
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Not serious at all
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
    • 39%
      39%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 43%
      43%
       
      Never
  • Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 57%
      57%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Never
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Once a week or more but not every day
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Continually or almost continually
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 61%
      61%
       
      Never
  • Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 41%
      41%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
    • 91%
      91%
       
      Less than half the time
  • Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
    • 57%
      57%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 33%
      33%
       
      Never
  • Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 30%
      30%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 48%
      48%
       
      Never
  • Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
    • 39%
      39%
       
      Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)
    • 61%
      61%
       
      Regular (established routine, set schedule)
  • Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
    • 36%
      36%
       
      Slightly automated
    • 55%
      55%
       
      Not at all automated
  • Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
    • 55%
      55%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 45%
      45%
       
      Never
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
    • 45%
      45%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 50%
      50%
       
      Never
  • Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Once a month or more but not every week
    • 26%
      26%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 61%
      61%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
    • 27%
      27%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 64%
      64%
       
      Never
  • Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
    • 24%
      24%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 67%
      67%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
    • 26%
      26%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 70%
      70%
       
      Never
  • In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
    • 23%
      23%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 73%
      73%
       
      Never
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
    • 22%
      22%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 78%
      78%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
    • 18%
      18%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 82%
      82%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
    • 86%
      86%
       
      Never
  • Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 83%
      83%
       
      Never
  • Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
    • 87%
      87%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
    • 14%
      14%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 86%
      86%
       
      Never
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
    • 17%
      17%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 83%
      83%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Once a year or more but not every month
    • 87%
      87%
       
      Never
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
    • 90%
      90%
       
      Not important at all
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?
    • 13%
      13%
       
      Less than half the time
    • 87%
      87%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
    • 91%
      91%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?
    • 91%
      91%
       
      Never
  • Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
    • 96%
      96%
       
      Never

Experience Requirements

Job Zone Save Table: XLSX CSV

Title
Job Zone Five: Extensive Preparation Needed
Education
Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Related Experience
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
Job Training
Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.
Job Zone Examples
These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. Examples include pharmacists, lawyers, astronomers, biologists, clergy, neurologists, and veterinarians.
SVP Range
Over 4 years of preparation (8.0 and above)

Training & Credentials

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Worker Requirements

Skills Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceSkill
78
 
Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
75
 
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.
75
 
Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
75
 
Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
72
 
Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
69
 
Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
69
 
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
69
 
Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
66
 
Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
66
 
Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
60
 
Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
60
 
Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
53
 
Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
53
 
Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
50
 
Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
50
 
Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
50
 
Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
50
 
Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
50
 
Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
50
 
Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
44
 
Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
41
 
Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
35
 
Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
28
 
Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
28
 
Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
28
 
Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
25
 
Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
22
 
Operations Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
22
 
Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
3
 
Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
0
 
Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
0
 
Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
0
 
Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
0
 
Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
0
 
Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

Knowledge Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceKnowledge
82
 
Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
76
 
Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
63
 
Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
59
 
Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
57
 
Physics — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
56
 
English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
56
 
Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
54
 
Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
53
 
Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
48
 
Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
48
 
Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
46
 
Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
46
 
Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
43
 
Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
42
 
Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
36
 
Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
34
 
Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
32
 
Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
32
 
Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
29
 
Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
28
 
Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
27
 
Administrative — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
27
 
Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
24
 
Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
24
 
Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
22
 
Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
20
 
Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
13
 
Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
12
 
History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
10
 
Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
7
 
Medicine and Dentistry — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
6
 
Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
1
 
Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation? Respondents said:

  • 65%
     
    Master’s degree required
  • 22%
     
    Bachelor’s degree required
  • 9%
     
    Doctoral degree required

Worker Characteristics

Abilities Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceAbility
78
 
Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
78
 
Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
75
 
Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
72
 
Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
72
 
Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
69
 
Information Ordering — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
69
 
Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
69
 
Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
69
 
Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
69
 
Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
66
 
Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
66
 
Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
63
 
Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
60
 
Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
60
 
Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
56
 
Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50
 
Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
50
 
Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
47
 
Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
47
 
Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
44
 
Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
44
 
Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
35
 
Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
25
 
Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
25
 
Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
25
 
Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
25
 
Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
22
 
Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
22
 
Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
19
 
Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
3
 
Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
0
 
Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
0
 
Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
0
 
Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
0
 
Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
0
 
Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
0
 
Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
0
 
Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
0
 
Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
0
 
Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
0
 
Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
0
 
Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
0
 
Multilimb Coordination — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
0
 
Night Vision — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
0
 
Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
0
 
Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
0
 
Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
0
 
Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
0
 
Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
0
 
Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
0
 
Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
0
 
Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Interests Save Table: XLSX CSV

Occupational InterestInterest
95
 
Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
50
 
Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
28
 
Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
22
 
Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
22
 
Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
11
 
Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Work Values Save Table: XLSX CSV

ExtentWork Value
83
 
Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
72
 
Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
70
 
Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
61
 
Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
45
 
Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
39
 
Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

Work Styles Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceWork Style
94
 
Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
84
 
Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
79
 
Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
73
 
Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
73
 
Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
72
 
Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
72
 
Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
72
 
Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
69
 
Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
68
 
Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
63
 
Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
58
 
Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
54
 
Self-Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
53
 
Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
45
 
Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
34
 
Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.

Workforce Characteristics

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wage data for Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health.
Employment data for Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health.
Industry data for Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health.
Median wages (2021)
$36.79 hourly, $76,530 annual
State wages
Local wages
Employment (2020)
87,100 employees
Projected growth (2020-2030)
Average (5% to 10%)
Projected job openings (2020-2030)
9,400
State trends
Top industries (2020)
Government (43% employed in this sector)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2021 wage data external site and 2020-2030 employment projections external site. “Projected growth” represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2020-2030). “Projected job openings” represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

State job openings
Local job openings

More Information

Sources of Additional Information

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.