Environmental scientists and specialists
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$80,060
~$38/hr · ~$6,672/mo
US Jobs
90K
As fast as average
AI & Automation Risk
6/10
Moderate
AI & Automation Risk
Moderate 6/10
This occupation involves a significant amount of digital knowledge work, including data analysis, report writing, and regulatory compliance, which are highly susceptible to AI augmentation. However, the role is anchored by a physical component involving fieldwork, site inspections, and laboratory sample analysis that AI cannot currently replicate. AI will likely serve as a powerful tool for modeling environmental impacts and drafting technical documents, increasing individual productivity while leaving the physical data collection and stakeholder relationship management to humans.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monroe, MIBEST VALUE | $107,990 | Below avg (93.3) | $115,729 |
| Kennewick-Richland, WA | $108,310 | Average (98.9) | $109,531 |
| Springfield, IL | $96,640 | Below avg (90.7) | $106,607 |
| Midland, TX | $98,900 | Below avg (95.4) | $103,687 |
| Battle Creek, MI | $89,860 | Below avg (88.2) | $101,828 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $91,890 | Below avg (90.8) | $101,212 |
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV | $109,520 | Above avg (109.5) | $99,979 |
| Mankato, MN | $85,080 | Below avg (87.6) | $97,071 |
| Worcester, MA | $99,280 | Average (103.0) | $96,405 |
| Salem, OR | $98,050 | Average (102.5) | $95,697 |
| St. Cloud, MN | $85,450 | Below avg (89.3) | $95,688 |
| Jackson, MI | $88,190 | Below avg (92.8) | $95,008 |
| Yuma, AZ | $83,330 | Below avg (88.1) | $94,601 |
| Norwich-New London-Willimantic, CT | $94,830 | Average (100.7) | $94,175 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $92,320 | Average (98.1) | $94,096 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
Bachelor's degree
10-Year Growth
+4% (As fast as average)
Hourly Rate
~$38/hr
Monthly Income
~$6,672/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)