Environmental Science & Geology Career Guide
Introduction
Environmental Science and Geology are dynamic, interdisciplinary fields that focus on understanding Earth’s systems and solving environmental challenges. Whether you’re passionate about fieldwork, conservation, sustainability, or earth processes, these fields offer diverse career opportunities that align with environmental stewardship and scientific discovery.
Academic Pathway
1. Core Related Courses to Focus On
- Earth Sciences: Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography
- Biological Sciences: Ecology, Environmental Biology
- Physical Sciences: Chemistry, Physics
- Mathematics: Calculus, Statistics, Data Analysis
- Computing & GIS: Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, Programming (Python, R)
2. Recommended Coursework, if Offered
- Environmental Geology
- Hydrology
- Soil Science
- Climate Science
- Environmental Chemistry
- Geophysics
- Field Mapping Techniques
- Environmental Policy & Law
Career Pathways
Environmental Science Careers
| Role | Description | Typical Employers |
| Environmental Consultant | Advises businesses/governments on environmental best practices | Consulting firms, private industry |
| Ecologist | Studies ecosystems and biodiversity | NGOs, research institutions |
| Environmental Educator | Promotes awareness and understanding | Schools, parks, museums |
| Sustainability Coordinator | Develops sustainable practices in organizations | Corporations, universities, municipalities |
| Climate Analyst | Analyzes data to understand climate trends | Government, research labs |
Geology Careers
| Role | Description | Typical Employers |
| Geologist | Studies Earth processes and materials | Mining companies, oil & gas, environmental firms |
| Hydrogeologist | Investigates groundwater systems | Water authorities, environmental consultancies |
| Geotechnical Engineer | Assesses soil and rock stability for construction | Engineering firms, government agencies |
| Seismologist | Monitors earthquake activity and seismic hazards | Research institutions, government |
| Paleontologist | Studies fossils to understand past life | Museums, universities |
Skills to Consider Developing
Sampling Techniques, GIS & Remote Sensing, Scientific Writing & Communication, Data Analysis & Statistical Software, Project Management, Environmental Regulations Knowledge, Lab Techniques (e.g., soil, water analysis)
Career Development Tips
- Explore: Career Map: Environmental Scientist | Department of Energy
- Internships: Gain practical experience in labs, field research, NGOs, or agencies.
- Certifications: Consider certifications like OSHA, HAZWOPER, GIS, or LEED.
- Networking: Join organizations such as:
- Geological Society of America (GSA)
- Ecological Society of America (ESA)
- American Geosciences Institute (AGI)
- Conferences & Workshops: Attend to learn and connect with professionals.
- Undergraduate Research: Participate in research projects with faculty or REU programs (Research Experiences for Undergraduates).
Graduate School & Beyond
Pursuing graduate studies may be required for specialized roles in research, academia, or advanced consulting. Relevant graduate programs include:
- Environmental Science (MS, PhD)
- Geology/Earth Sciences (MS, PhD)
- Environmental Engineering
- Sustainability Studies
- Oceanography or Atmospheric Science
- Graduate School Toolkit
Employers & Sectors
- Government Agencies: EPA, USGS, NOAA, local/state environmental departments
- Private Sector: Environmental consulting firms, engineering firms, energy companies
- Nonprofits/NGOs: The Nature Conservancy, Sierra Club, WWF
- Academia & Research: Universities, labs, museums
- International Organizations: UN Environment Programme, World Bank, NGOs abroad
Resources
Job Search Tips
- Searching for Science Jobs – Tips and Resources
- Essential Tips for Navigating your Job Search
- Using ChatGPT prompts for Job Search and Exploration
Job Search Resources
Ecology | Economics | Equity
- Economics for Equity in Environment
- welcometothejungle – Green jobs
- International Society of Industrial Ecology
- Ecology Society of America
- Women in Cleantech & Sustainability
- Create the Good volunteer opportunities
General Environmental and Sustainability Platforms
- iHIreEnvironmental
- Terra.do Climate Jobs
- Environmental Science Careers
- GreenBiz Sustainability Jobs
- Green Sports Alliance
- GreenCareers
- EngineerJobs
- Environmental Career
- Thinkenergygroup.com
- BioSpace
- Sustainable Career Pathways
- sustainabilityprofessionals.careerwebsite
- CareerOneStop Green Careers
- B Lab Nonprofit Network
- Natural Resources and Conservation Jobs
- welcometothejungle – Green jobs
- sustainablepittsburgh
- Home | eePRO (environmenta; education)
- Eds Jobs – Clean Energy
- USAJobs.gov (Federal environmental job listings***)
- EarthWorks-jobs.com
- EcoJobs.com
- Climate Career Resources.pdf
General Job Search Resources
University of Pittsburgh internship opportunities
Pittsburgh Centered
Associations/Organizations/Opportunities
- International Society of Sustainability Professionals
- International Society of Industrial Ecology
- U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
- National Association of Environmental Professionals
- The Ecological Society of America (The E3 Network)
- North American Association for Environmental Education
- American Sustainable Business Network
- The Sustainability Consortium
- Think Energy Group
- American Sustainable Business Network
- sustainabilityconsortium
General Searching
- HANDSHAKE
- INDEED
- MONSTER
- ZipRecruiter
- CareerBuilder.com
- SimplyHired
- USA JOBS
- Chegg
- WayUp
- OTTA
Books & Reading
- A Short History of Nearly Everything – Bill Bryson
- Silent Spring – Rachel Carson
- Introduction to Environmental Geology – Edward A. Keller
Final Tips
- Start early: Explore internships and field opportunities as early as your sophomore year.
- Stay curious: Follow current environmental issues and emerging technologies.
- Be adaptable: Many roles evolve with climate and policy changes.
- Network
- Stay current with national news and developments
- Attend Career Center workshops and events
- Think globally, act locally: Involvement in local projects builds credibility and experience
