Environmental Science and Protection Technician

Environmental Science and Protection Technician
Environmental science and protection technicians will typically work under the direction of a lead environmental scientist, biologist or ecologist to conduct environmental monitoring through lab and field test. Additionally, they will make recommendations to control or eliminate unsafe conditions at workplaces or public facilities.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?:
- Conduct field sampling of the air, water and soil
- Carry out hazardous goods and waste handling methods
- Develop emergency planning and spill response methods
- Enforce environmental law and ethics
- Take inventory and quantify sources of locally generated pollution
- Prepare reports of lab results for internal and external use
- Classify products and compare test results with standard tables
- Order supplies needed for daily laboratory processes and activities
- Sterilize appropriate laboratory equipment
- Prepare graphs, charts and reports from test results
- Operate laboratory equipment independently
- Perform quality control analysis
- Make recommendations to control or eliminate unsafe conditions
- Inspect sanitary conditions at public facilities and private property
Recommended High School Courses:
The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, a focus on science, earth science, biology, botany, chemistry and biology and mathematics.
Education/Training Required:
An associate degree in natural resources, soil science, biology or a related science field, such as horticulture, plant physiology or environmental science, is required. Those with a bachelor’s degree in similar fields would increase their chances for employment and advancement once on the job.