Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists recruited in Central and State pollution control boards get between Rs 15,000 -Rs 25,000. Candidates with a postgraduate degree may start with a salary range of Rs. 30000 - Rs. 50000 and with a PhD salaries are even higher. Environmental Engineers with a B.E degree receives a salary anywhere between Rs.20, 000 - Rs.30, 000. A licensed engineer however can expect a higher pay package.

Environmental Science as a career offers good job opportunities. Various state and national Government Departments and Industry provide employment on the basis of experience and specialization. There is employment potential in distilleries, fertilizers plants, mines, refineries, textiles, pollution control boards. Forest and wildlife department, NGO’s, water resource and agriculture department, various universities and colleges also provide employment.

Dr R K Pachauri, was the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a United Nations panel to assess information relevant for understanding climate change. Pachauri has been quite vocal on the issue of climate change and in 2007 IPCC shared Nobel Peace prize with former U.S. Vice President Al Gore.

Environmental scientists do various tasks depending on the projects but generally they collect environmental data, for example soil samples or water samples. They analyze data to determine its quality and scientific significance, and look for correlations between human activities and environmental effects. They prepare detailed reports, publish the findings and attend conferences. They provide support and guidance to government agencies, industries and the public. They review the environmental policies, regulations and guidelines to make sure they meet appropriate requirements.