Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
Environmental science and protection technicians conduct laboratory and field tests to monitor environmental conditions and identify pollution sources that may affect public health. Working under the direction of environmental scientists or engineers, they collect and analyze samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials. These technicians typically work for government agencies, consulting firms, or private companies.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against environmental science and protection technicians, including health and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves a mix of fieldwork and lab analysis. Technicians might spend a day collecting water samples from a river, soil samples from a contaminated site, or air quality measurements from multiple locations. Back in the laboratory, they prepare samples, run tests using specialized equipment, record data, and compile results into reports. They may also maintain monitoring equipment, calibrate instruments, and communicate findings to supervisors or clients.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy problem-solving and hands-on investigation, with strong attention to detail and patience for methodical work. You're comfortable with both outdoor fieldwork and laboratory procedures, and you're motivated by the practical goal of protecting environmental quality and public health.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $55,580 | $67,160 | $106,490 | 850 |
| Nebraska | $49,600 | $66,240 | $80,350 | 140 |
| Connecticut | $56,160 | $66,120 | $84,520 | — |
| Minnesota | $51,730 | $65,320 | $91,000 | 450 |
| Rhode Island | $51,100 | $64,830 | $82,600 | 90 |
| New York | $47,100 | $62,400 | $79,660 | 1,960 |
| New Mexico | $49,290 | $62,330 | $79,310 | 500 |
| North Dakota | $46,510 | $61,430 | $72,740 | 140 |
| California | $46,990 | $61,220 | $83,580 | 6,010 |
| Colorado | $52,730 | $60,930 | $74,240 | 740 |
| Pennsylvania | $50,060 | $60,650 | $76,100 | 1,180 |
| Montana | $48,980 | $60,550 | $76,330 | 70 |
All 49 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Council-certified Environmental Infection Control Technician (CEICT) — American Council for Accredited Certification
- Certified Professional Environmental Auditor: Health and Safety (CPEA-HS) — Board for Global EHS Credentialing
- Certified Professional Environmental Auditor - Environmental Compliance (CPEA-EC) — Board for Global EHS Credentialing
- Offshore Corrosion Assessment Technician (O-CAT) — The Association for Materials Protection and Performance
- Registered Environmental Laboratory Technologist (RELT) — National Registry of Environmental Professionals
- Certified in Public Health (CPH) — National Board of Public Health Examiners
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against environmental science and protection technicians, including health and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4042.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.