What does an Environmental Specialist do?

What is an Environmental Specialist? The role serves as an environmental expert who aims to minimize the impact of humans on the natural environment. Environmental Specialists work in private and public sectors, including government agencies, to identify potential environmental issues and create solutions to stop or reduce them. The duties can occur in the office, in the field and on location when working with other organizations. They often work as part of a larger environmental team to research and collaborate on solutions.

Field work, investigations and research are often a large part of the position. Environmental Specialists use what they learn to identify issues that must be addressed. They might work with companies to correct problems damaging the environment or help them take a proactive stance by reducing their waste. All of the work that Environmental Specialists do helps make the natural environment healthier and safer while reducing damage and loss of habitat. 

Environmental Specialist skills and qualifications

An Environmental Specialist job description typically includes several skills and qualifications to ensure candidates are prepared for the role. These might include:

• Understanding of environmental concerns

• Familiarity with laws and regulations related to waste management and other environmental concerns

• Keen observational skills

• Strong analytical skills

• Exceptional communication skills

• Ability to conduct research and collect data in the field

Environmental Specialist experience requirements

Many organizations expect one or two years of experience in an environmental role or internship. Some jobs might be open to individuals with related degrees without actual work experience. If you’re creating an Environmental Specialist job description for a specific area, such as climate change or environmental health and safety, you might expect work experience in that particular field.

Environmental Specialist education and training requirements

It’s common for a job description for an Environmental Specialist to require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or another natural science field. Some entry-level environmental positions might accept a high school diploma or associate’s degree with environmental work experience. Environmental science programs often include practical field experience for on-the-job training. 

There are also several environmental certifications that candidates might have. The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management offers a Certified Hazardous Materials Manager credential for environmental professionals. The National Registry of Environmental Professionals offers a wide range of certifications related to environmental work. Certifications in the field aren’t required, but they might go into the preferred section of your Environmental Specialist job description. 

Environmental Specialist salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an Environmental Specialist is $17.99 per hour. Specific salaries listed in a job description for Environmental Specialist roles can vary based on the job location, duties and experience. 

Job description samples for similar positions

If you’re looking for something slightly different than an Environmental Specialist job description, consider these similar options:

• Environmental Scientist

• Wildlife Biologist

• Environmental Engineer

• Marine Biologist

Environmental Specialist job description FAQs

What are the different types of Environmental Specialists?

Environmental Specialists might work in a niche area that can be more research-based or action-based. For instance, a Climate Change Analyst focuses specifically on how changing climates affect habitats. Environmental Chemists research what chemicals do to ecosystems. Industrial Ecologists help industrial organizations minimize their impact on ecosystems. 

What qualities make a good Environmental Specialist?

An effective Environmental Specialist is curious and ready to explore all angles of an issue to create new solutions for the problem. They’re committed to keeping the environment healthy and safe. They also know how to work well with people since they might be met with resistance from businesses or individuals being asked to change. 

What should you look for in an Environmental Specialist resume?

Check for a degree in environmental science with related work experience, either in a full-time role or through internships. You might look for specific experience in your industry or the software, tools and research methods you implement. Additional certifications or membership in professional organizations can also be beneficial.

What makes a good Environmental Specialist job description?

When writing your job description for an Environmental Specialist position, detail the type of environmental work the selected candidate will do. Include descriptions of field work and the types of organizations they’ll work with. It’s also helpful to describe your organization and the other staff members the candidate will work with regularly.