Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing.
Work Activities
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Discuss test results and analyses with customers.
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Record test data and prepare reports, summaries, or charts that interpret test results.
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Develop or implement programs for monitoring of environmental pollution or radiation.
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Calibrate microscopes or test instruments.
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Provide information or technical or program assistance to government representatives, employers, or the general public on the issues of public health, environmental protection, or workplace safety.
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Direct activities of workers in laboratory.
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Collect samples of gases, soils, water, industrial wastewater, or asbestos products to conduct tests on pollutant levels or identify sources of pollution.
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Monitor emission control devices to ensure they are operating properly and comply with state and federal regulations.
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Inspect sanitary conditions at public facilities.
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Examine and analyze material for presence and concentration of contaminants, such as asbestos, using variety of microscopes.
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Weigh, analyze, or measure collected sample particles, such as lead, coal dust, or rock, to determine concentration of pollutants.
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Develop or implement site recycling or hazardous waste stream programs.
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Analyze potential environmental impacts of production process changes, and recommend steps to mitigate negative impacts.
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Perform statistical analysis of environmental data.
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Prepare samples or photomicrographs for testing and analysis.
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Determine amounts and kinds of chemicals to use in destroying harmful organisms or removing impurities from purification systems.
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Set up equipment or stations to monitor and collect pollutants from sites, such as smoke stacks, manufacturing plants, or mechanical equipment.
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Make recommendations to control or eliminate unsafe conditions at workplaces or public facilities.
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Distribute permits, closure plans, or cleanup plans.
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Maintain files, such as hazardous waste databases, chemical usage data, personnel exposure information, or diagrams showing equipment locations.
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Develop testing procedures.
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Conduct standardized tests to ensure materials or supplies used throughout power supply systems meet processing and safety specifications.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
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Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
- Education
Associate's degree
- Work Experience
No work experience
- Training
No on-the-job training
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Looking for technical training programs?
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Investigative:
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
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Integrity
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Dependability
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Attention to Detail
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Analytical Thinking
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Initiative
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Adaptability/Flexibility
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Water samplers
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Sound measuring apparatus or decibel meter
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Sampling pumps
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Flowmeters
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Air samplers or collectors
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Map creation software
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Electronic mail software
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Data base user interface and query software
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Computer aided design CAD software
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Analytical or scientific software
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Bright Outlook occupations will grow rapidly in the next few years, have a large number of openings, or are new and emerging careers.
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Apprenticeships are available for this occupation. These programs can help you get hands-on experience and build your skills.
