Sampling air, soil and water quality is an essential task performed by environmental service technicians. They identify contaminants and then determine the source of contamination and take measures to eliminate it. Many work for private consulting companies, and they may also respond to environmental emergencies.
Essential Information
Environmental service technicians are employed by private companies to operate instruments that test the quality of air, soil and water at job sites. They make sure that pollution isn't present or come up with ways to minimize its effects. The job typically requires a 2-year degree in environmental science or a related field as well as work experience.
| Required Education | Associate's degree in environmental science minimum standard requirement |
| Other Requirements | Previous work experience may be preferred |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 8% for all environmental science and protection technicians |
| Median Salary (2020)* | $46,850 for environmental science and protection technicians |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Environmental Service Technician Job Description
Environmental service technicians monitor job sites for pollution. Their purpose is to test for contaminants and, if located, eliminate the source. Air, ground and water all fall under the purview of environmental technicians. They're often employed by private consulting companies and work under an environmental scientist.
Environmental Service Technician Job Duties
Environmental technicians operate equipment that samples air, soil and water quality. They also design and maintain remediation systems or concoctions that help remedy problems of contamination. They may be called upon to respond in the event of an environmental emergency as well.
Given that much of their work takes place in the field at outdoor job sites, environmental technicians may travel a lot. They might also work in less-than-ideal conditions, including poor weather and potentially hazardous environments. In addition, to create the necessary remediation systems and ensure that job sites are set up as desired, they might have to perform light construction work.
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
Environmental service technicians are categorized by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as a part of environmental science and protection technicians. That larger group was predicted to see a growth much faster than average in employment between 2019 and 2029. Their mean salary was $50,960 as of May 2020, the BLS reported.
Environmental Service Technician Requirements
Most environmental service technician jobs require at least an associate's degree in environmental science or a related field. Environmental science programs, available at many community colleges, prepare students specifically for hands-on careers in the field through the study of topics like water resource management and sustainability. A bachelor's degree in a scientific field may be helpful, especially for advancement, but isn't usually required for the position.
Besides education, environmental service technicians often need work experience. Technicians typically start as trainees performing routine tasks under the supervision of a scientist or more experienced technician. With experience, technicians gain more autonomy and responsibility.
Environmental service technicians spend a lot of time working outside and are required to travel for their work. An associate's degree in environmental science is needed to enter this career field, although a bachelor's degree may be required for advancement.
