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How to Become an Environmental Scientist: Australian Careers in Science

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What is a Environmental Scientist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Environmental Scientist?

An environmental scientist studies and protects Australia’s natural environment. They develop policies, run assessments, and advise on how to manage land, water, and wildlife. Most work in government agencies, consulting firms, or non-profit organisations.

A key part of the role is running environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for development projects. These assessments identify risks to ecosystems before construction begins. Environmental scientists also monitor pollution, test soil and water, and track changes to wildlife habitats.

They often work with engineers, urban planners, and policymakers to create management plans. They also help businesses and governments meet their obligations under environmental law. This mix of science and teamwork makes the role both technical and people-focused.

Around 32,000 environmental scientists are employed in Australia. About 1,000 new positions are added each year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The field has a median age of 39, with women making up 45% of the workforce. Find relevant environmental science courses to begin your path into this career.

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Career snapshots For Environmental Scientists

Environmental scientists are in steady demand across Australia. There are currently 32,000 employed, with 1,000 new positions added each year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Most roles are full-time: only 15% of the workforce is part-time. The median age is 39, and women make up 45% of practitioners.

Median weekly earnings are $1,953, which equals around $102,000 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Future demand is rated as moderate. Key employers include government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and research bodies such as CSIRO. Mining and resources companies are also major employers.

What will I do?

Environmental scientists protect Australia’s natural systems. They do research, run field reviews, and take steps to conserve nature. They work with government agencies, developers, and community groups to cut harm to the environment. Each day can include fieldwork, data review, or team meetings.

  • Reviewing habitat, wildlife, and fisheries: setting short and long-term goals to keep ecosystems healthy.
  • Enforcing conservation laws: applying rules to protect fish, wildlife, and native plants.
  • Running environmental impact reviews: checking proposed developments for harm to ecosystems.
  • Proposing solutions: creating plans to cut negative impacts on the environment.
  • Studying ecological factors: looking at how terrain, climate change, and human activity affect plants and animals.
  • Analysing environmental samples: testing soil, water, and air for pollution and checking ecosystem health.
  • Developing conservation policies: creating plans for forests, fisheries, and other natural resources.
  • Running conservation activities: overseeing programs in parks and protected areas to preserve natural heritage.
  • Taking part in management planning: providing environmental data and listing flora, fauna, and heritage items.

What skills do I need?

Environmental scientists need both technical and communication skills. Strong analytical ability helps them review data on pollution, habitat health, and ecosystem change. Skill in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a core technical need for most roles.

Clear written and verbal communication is equally important. Environmental scientists regularly share findings with government agencies, developers, and community groups. They must explain complex science in plain language to people who are not scientists.

Skills/attributes

  • Analytical thinking and data interpretation
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Knowledge of Australian environmental law and regulation
  • Field data collection and sampling
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Report writing and technical documentation
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Project management
  • Understanding of ecological principles
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability to varied field conditions

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.