Out collecting the samples and data that environmental decisions rest on, a field technician tests soil, water, and air — often at contaminated or sensitive sites. Where the data starts in the dirt.
Most days are field sampling, monitoring, and data collection at sites that can be muddy, remote, or contaminated. You follow strict protocols and chain-of-custody, and a botched sample can compromise a study or cleanup. Lab coordination and documentation tend to follow the fieldwork.
Employers range across consulting, government, or industry, and the field-versus-office split varies. The demanding part for many can be physical work in rough or hazardous conditions. Work tends to be project-driven, with travel, early starts, and seasonal swings.
What the work asks is someone comfortable outdoors and careful with data, unbothered by getting dirty. Trade-offs can include physical conditions, modest entry pay, and project-based work. For someone who cares about the environment and likes hands-on fieldwork — and a path toward scientist or manager roles — it can be a solid start.
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Roles like this one sit within a broader occupational category. The numbers below reflect that full landscape — helpful for context, but your specific experience will depend on level, specialty, and where you work.
Out collecting the samples and data that environmental decisions rest on, a field technician tests soil, water, and air — often at contaminated or sensitive sites. Where the data starts in the dirt.
Median pay for an Environmental Field Technician (Environmental Field Tech) is about $49K nationally, with the field ranging roughly from $36K to $86K depending on experience, employer, and metro (BLS).
Core skills for this role include Reading Comprehension, Speaking, Active Listening, Writing, and Critical Thinking.
Most people in this role hold a bachelor's degree.
Employment in this field is projected to grow about 4% through 2034, with roughly 39,390 people working in it today (BLS).
Closely related roles include Environmental Compliance Inspector, Field Investigator, and Environmental Protection Specialist.
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