My job title is actually Environmental Scientist, but I work in a micro biological water testing laboratory. We analyze drinking water and wastewater because, as Michelle mentioned, we have to comply with state and federal regulations. Other responders have said how broad the field is and you can study a variety of science subjects (i.e., bio major, earth science, chemistry, hydrology, etc.) and still work as an environmental scientist.

Anne recommends the following next steps:

• Research a job you find interesting and then determine what college major (and minor if you can) would best prepare you for that type of career. Save

It entirely depends on which environmental sector you are engaged in it may either be monitoring/assessment of soil, water and air resources, remediation of polluted sites, climate change. Further, depending on your work organization your duties or roles varies for example: a professor/teacher in environment subject will be engaged in creating awareness among students about various environmental issues and possible solutions; they may also be engaged in carrying out various research projects in the environment field. The Environmental Scientists/professionals engaged in government sectors work on finding out possible solutions to environmental problems, regular monitoring, formulate or implement new policies to conserve the environment.

A typical day for an Environmental Biologist is typically testing different samples from a variety of places. Typically testing water, soil, plants etc.

There are jobs in government, unversities, and the private sector. Within Universities you typically want to have a PhD to conduct research or teach. In the private sector, many of the jobs are related to regulation such as the Clean Water Act and wetland permitting, but there are also jobs in endangered species, NEPA, contamination assessments, among others areas. Government jobs are typically enforcing the regulations so reviewing permit applications for wetlands, endangered species, oil and gas or other. I find there are more jobs in states that have more regulations such as California or Florida. In Pennsylvania where I reside now, not as many jobs and not paid as well.