The Microbiology concentration in the Environmental Science major addresses issues such as the remediation of contaminated sites and natural processes of decomposition, as well as water and food quality. Graduates may work in research, consulting, disaster preparedness and response, policy, and health and safety promotion. This major is also excellent preparation for graduate studies in public health, soil and water science, microbiology, and geography. Some of the job titles listed below may require an advanced degree.
Potential Career Areas:
- Conservation
- Disaster response and recovery
- Natural resources management
- Agriculture
- Aquaculture
- Food safety
- Waste treatment and management
- Policy
- Research
- Consulting
Sample Employers:
- Government agencies
- Water treatment facilities
- Farms and fisheries
- Waste treatment/storage facilities
- Research organizations
- Colleges and universities
- Disaster response agencies
- Consulting firms
- Nonprofit organizations
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Research Associate
|
$23,600 - $60,700
|
|
Environmental Biotechnologist
|
$34,590 - $94,670
|
|
Soil Scientist
|
$27,950 - $78,470
|
|
Range Scientist
|
$30,000 - $80,000
|
|
Groundwater Professional
|
$44,410 - $71,450
|
|
Consumer Safety Officer
|
$31,315 - $56,859
|
|
Agricultural Inspector
|
$24,000 - $41,700
|
|
Ecological Restoration Instructor
|
$25,000 - $50,000
|
|
Emergency Manager
|
$35,000 - $75,000
|
|
Industrial Toxicologist
|
$55,934 - $67,835
|
|
Ecologist
|
$36,310 - $59,750
|
|
Water Resources Manager
|
$67,300 - $116,000
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).