Explore This Path

Environmental Science Technician

💰 Earn $47K-$84K

📚 Associate Degree

⏱️ 24–48 Month Training

📈 6.9% Job Growth

Ideal for those passionate about protecting the environment and public health.
Play a crucial role in identifying and mitigating pollution sources.
Unique chance to work both in labs and outdoors, collecting vital environmental data.

What Environmental Science Technicians DoPerform 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.

Discuss test results and analyses with customers.
Record test data and prepare reports, summaries, or charts that interpret test results.
Develop or implement programs for monitoring of environmental pollution or radiation.
Investigate hazardous conditions or spills or outbreaks of disease or food poisoning, collecting samples for analysis.
Calibrate microscopes or test instruments.

Environmental Science Technicians Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationAssociate Degree

Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time2 to 4 years

Job Openings5,300 Annually

Median earnings

California Median

$61,220

Most earn within this range

median ▾

$47K25th percentile

$84K75th percentile

National Median

$55,090

Most earn within this range

median ▾

$46K25th percentile

$70K75th percentile

Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@technically.a.tech

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

you value

Accomplishing things
Having support
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing

Go Deeper: Environmental Science Technicians Explained

Environmental Science TechnicianExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years

Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

find training near you

Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.

Location

Enter your location to see training near you

What Is the Sciences Industry?