Environmental Health Salary Statistics

Environmental Science and Protection Technicians (Occupation Code: 19-4091) perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health. Under direction of an environmental scientist or specialist, may collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing and take corrective actions as assigned.

Median Wages

U.S.	$19.81/hr	$41,204/yr
Minnesota	$21.62/hr	$44,969/yr
Seven County Mpls-St. Paul, MN	$22.16/hr	$46,092/yr

* The above figures are averaged, 2008 data. Individuals could earn more or less, depending on their place of work, education, and experience level.

Typical Occupation Tasks

• Collects samples of gases, soils, water, industrial wastewater, and asbestos products to conduct tests on pollutant levels.
• Performs chemical and physical laboratory and field tests on collected samples to assess compliance with pollution standards, using test instruments.
• Examines and analyzes material for presence and concentration of contaminants such as asbestos in environment, using variety of microscopes.
• Calculates amount of pollutant in samples or computes air pollution or gas flow in industrial processes, using chemical and mathematical formulas.
• Determines amounts and kinds of chemicals to use in destroying harmful organisms and removing impurities from purification systems.
• Prepares samples or photomicrographs for testing and analysis.
• Discusses test results and analyses with customers.
• Calibrates microscopes and test instruments.
• Develops procedures and directs activities of workers in laboratory.
• Records test data and prepares reports, summaries, and charts, that interpret test results and recommend changes.
• Sets up equipment or station to monitor and collect pollutants from sites, such as smoke stacks, manufacturing plants, or mechanical equipment.
• Weighs, analyzes, and measures collected sample particles, such as lead, coal dust, or rock, to determine concentration of pollutants.
• Conducts standardized tests to ensure materials and supplies used throughout power supply system meet processing and safety specifications.

Related Occupations

Chemists
Forensic Science Technicians
Agricultural and Food Science Technicians

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Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health (Occupation Code: 19-2041) conducts research or performs investigations for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or the health of the population.

Median Wages

U.S.	$29.37/hr	$61,089/yr
Minnesota	$28.66/hr	$59,612/yr
Seven County Mpls-St. Paul, MN	$29.03/hr	$60,382/yr

* The above figures are averaged, 2008 data. Individuals could earn more or less, depending on their place of work;  education, and experience level.

Typical Occupation Tasks

• Plans and develops research models using knowledge of mathematical and statistical concepts.
• Determines data collection methods to be employed in research projects and surveys.
• Prepares graphs or charts from data samples and advises enforcement personnel on proper standards and regulations.
• Collects, identifies and analyzes data to assess sources of pollution, determine their effects, and establish standards.

Related Occupations

Biochemists and Biophysicists
Microbiologists