Environmental scientists and geoscientists use their knowledge of the physical makeup and history of the Earth to locate water, mineral, and energy resources; protect the environment; predict future geologic hazards; and offer advice on construction and land use projects.

Environmental scientists conduct research to identify and abate or eliminate sources of pollutants that affect people, wildlife, and their environments. They analyze and report measurements and observations of air, water, soil, and other sources to make recommendations on how best to clean and preserve the environment. They often use their skills and knowledge to design and monitor waste disposal sites, preserve water supplies, and reclaim contaminated land and water to comply with Federal environmental regulations.

Geoscientists study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. By using sophisticated instruments and analyses of the earth and water, geoscientists study the Earth's geologic past and present in order to make predictions about its future. For example, they may study the Earth's movements to try to predict when and where the next earthquake or volcano will occur and the probable impact on surrounding areas to minimize the damage. Many geoscientists are involved in the search for oil and gas, while others work closely with environmental scientists in preserving and cleaning up the environment.

Geoscientists usually study, and are subsequently classified in, one of several closely related fields of geoscience, including geology, geophysics, and oceanography. Geologists study the composition, processes, and history of the Earth. They try to find out how rocks were formed and what has happened to them since formation. They also study the evolution of life by analyzing plant and animal fossils. Geophysicists use the principles of physics, mathematics, and chemistry to study not only the Earth's surface, but also its internal composition; ground and surface waters; atmosphere; oceans; and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces.  Oceanographers use their knowledge of geology and geophysics, in addition to biology and chemistry, to study the world's oceans and coastal waters. They study the motion and circulation of the ocean waters and their physical and chemical properties, and how these properties affect coastal areas, climate, and weather.

Career Sources and Professional Organizations

	ABAG GLOBE
	American Water Works Association
	Brown & Caldwell - Environmental engineering and consulting jobs.
	ChevronTexaco Careers
	Coolworks Job List Of State and National Parks
	Cyber-Sierra's Natural Resources - Forestry or Natural Resources job listings.
	Environmental Career Opportunities - jobs & internships
	Environmental Careers Organization
	Environmental Employment Pages
	Environmental Jobs and Careers - environmental opportunities in the USA and Canada.
	Environmental Organization WebDirectory - One of the best sites I have found so far.
	Environmental Protection Agency Careers
	EnviroWorld: Florida's Enviro-Link With The World!!
	Geo Job Source
	GIS Recruiters GeoSearch, Inc.
	Geo Web Jobs - You can view several jobs for free, but the jobs listed with GeoWeb require a subscription. A nice variety in jobs offered.
	GIS Jobs Clearinghouse - jobs all around the world in several industries.
	INFO-MINE
	Kleinfelder Geotechnical - and employee-owned Environmental, Geotechnical, and Construction Engineering Company.
	MWH Global - drinking water lab has jobs for chemists, biologists, computer scientists, engineers, etc.
	National Registry of Environmental Professionals
	National Science Foundation
	National Wildlife Federation - Conservation Career Gateway
	New Urban Research
	NOAA Fisheries - lots of information!
	Pollution Online - a great site!  Scroll down to the Career Center and click on job search.
	Professional Service Industries - for science and engineering jobs in the environmental field.
	Public Interest Jobs
	Shaw Environmental & Infrastructure - an environmental management firm.
	Society for Conservation Biology (SCB)
	Solid Waste Online - published by Pollution Online.
	Texas Parks And Wildlife Department
	The Employment Center - this site includes jobs for everyone who is interested in work involving the environmental field. A very good site with nice variety.
	The Environetwork
	Urban Planning Job Links
	USA Jobs
	Water Environment Federation

SAMPLE JOB TITLES

Entry Level:		Experienced:
	Civil Engineer		Environmental Scientist
	Environmental Engineer		Geochemist
	Environmental Lobbyist		Geoscientist
	Geologist		Hydrologist
	Natural Science Manager		Oceanographer

ENHANCING EMPLOYABILITY

	Participate in internships
	Computer-related skills
	Excellent interpersonal skills
	Strong oral and written communication skills
	Strong problem-solving, decision-making skills
	Foreign language(s) helpful
	Strong physical stamina for fieldwork