Environmental scientists study the environment and work to protect it by researching issues such as pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction. Their work often involves collecting and analysing data from air, water, and soil samples, and then using this information to advise organisations, government bodies, or the public on best practices for sustainability and environmental protection. Many environmental scientists are involved in writing reports, creating policies, and ensuring that companies comply with environmental laws. Much of their time may be spent outdoors conducting fieldwork, as well as in laboratories or offices analysing findings and preparing recommendations.
Environmental scientists in the UK typically earn between £22,000 and £45,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning upwards of £60,000.
There are around 5,000 to 7,000 environmental scientist positions currently advertised annually across the UK.
The demand for environmental scientists is expected to grow by around 7 percent over the next decade, driven by increased focus on climate change and environmental regulations.
Studies the life and ecosystems of oceans and seas, focusing on marine plants, animals, and environmental issues like pollution and climate change.
Advises organisations on how to manage environmental issues, including pollution, waste, and compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
Researches the relationships between living organisms and their environments, often working to protect habitats and endangered species.
Select science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, and Geography for your GCSEs.
Taking science-based GCSEs will prepare you for future studies in environmental science. Aim for good grades in these subjects as they are often required for further education and can help you develop a basic understanding of environmental processes.
Pick A-levels such as Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Geography.
These A-levels provide the essential science knowledge and analytical skills needed for university courses in environmental science. Some universities may require specific subjects, so check entry requirements early.
Apply for a degree in Environmental Science or a related subject such as Ecology, Geography, or Environmental Management.
A Bachelors degree in Environmental Science is the standard route into this career in the UK. Some universities offer sandwich courses with a year in industry, which can provide valuable practical experience.
Pursue a Masters or PhD if you wish to specialise or work in research roles.
A Masters degree is not always required but can be beneficial for specialisms such as environmental consultancy, pollution control, or academic research. A PhD is essential for a career in university research or teaching.
Look for internships, voluntary work, or summer placements with environmental organisations, charities, or local councils.
Practical experience is highly valued by employers and can help you build a professional network. Roles can include assisting with fieldwork, data analysis, or environmental education programmes.
Develop skills in data collection, analysis, report writing, and communication.
Environmental Scientists need to be able to analyse scientific data, write clear reports, and communicate findings to a range of audiences. Taking part in university projects, presenting at student conferences, and joining relevant societies can help you enhance these skills.
Look for entry-level positions in environmental consultancy, local government, research institutes, or environmental charities.
Typical job titles include Environmental Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Pollution Control Officer, or Conservation Scientist. Be prepared to start in junior roles and work your way up as you gain experience.
Join professional organisations such as the Institution of Environmental Sciences and work towards chartered status.
Professional membership can provide access to networking opportunities, industry news, and continuing professional development. Some roles require or prefer candidates who are working towards chartered environmentalist status.
Ecologists study the relationships between living organisms and their environments, often focusing on conservation and biodiversity.
Environmental consultants advise businesses and governments on how to minimise their environmental impact, often by conducting assessments and recommending improvements.
Hydrologists specialise in studying water resources, including the movement, quality, and distribution of water in the environment.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Environmental Scientist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
An Environmental Scientist and an Environmental Consultant both work on assessing, analysing, and providing advice on environmental issues. They often have overlapping qualifications related to environmental analysis, regulation compliance, and sustainable practices, making them closely aligned in terms of expertise and responsibilities.
You can get into this job through:
You'll usually need a degree or postgraduate qualification in environmental science, environmental studies or environmental sustainability.
You might also be able to take a related subject like:
You'll usually need:
You could apply to do an Environmental Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
You might also specialise by completing a Soil Scientist Level 7 Apprenticeship. This is equivalent to study at postgraduate level.
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
Volunteering is a great way of getting experience and a taste of environmental work. It will also give you the opportunity to develop your skills and make contacts.
Organisations who offer volunteering opportunities include:
You can find more opportunities through the Countryside Jobs Service.
As a graduate you could look for environmental postgraduate training positions offered through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).
In a KTP, you get the opportunity to run a research project together with an organisation and a university or research body. You may also work towards postgraduate qualifications.
You can join the Society for the Environment for your professional development and to make industry contacts.
You can discover more about environmental work and training through:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2026 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
