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Environmental services

Environmental scientist

Investigate environmental conditions, analyze samples or data and communicate findings about pollution and other concerns.

Oregon median annual wage$97,440Not starting pay · all experience levels
BLS · May 2025
Middle 50% of annual wages$76,870–$113,32025th–75th percentiles · all experience levels
Projected change in Oregon jobs+12.6%2024–2034 · ten-year change
Projected openings per year150Calculated annual average · 2024–2034

EDUCATION & ENTRY

Usually bachelor’s science study

Environmental science study can include laboratory, field and data work. Ask about internships and specialization. Some research or advanced positions require further education.

The state’s typical entry education classification is “Bachelor's degree.” This describes the occupation broadly; employers, programs and licensing bodies set specific requirements.

CONNECT THE CAREER TO A PLACE TO LEARN

Oregon training options

These are related routes to investigate. Confirm the full preparation, current admissions and eligibility for your intended role with the provider.

Southern Oregon University

Ecology and Conservation

Bachelor · 180 quarter credits minimum; full sequence depends on the degree planAshland

Study ecological relationships and conservation through science and field experience in Southern Oregon.

Ask: Where does fieldwork occur, and how will I gain experience collecting and interpreting ecological data?

Program page reviewed September 15, 2026

Take this question to a counselor.

Would I enjoy turning field observations and data into useful explanations?

Before choosing a program, ask for prerequisites, the complete timeline, class and placement schedules, and a full cost estimate including supplies, exams, travel and living expenses.

Build a working cost estimate →

Understand the numbers.

The median is the midpoint of estimated wages for Oregon workers in this occupation. The hourly median is $46.85. These figures describe workers across experience levels; they are not starting pay or the earnings of graduates from the programs below.

Oregon projects employment moving from 1,414 jobs in 2024 to 1,592 in 2034. The projected 1,498 openings over the decade include growth and replacement needs as workers leave an occupation. Dividing that total by ten gives the rounded annual average shown above. These are projections, not today’s vacancies.

How to read wage information →