How to Become an Environmental Data Scientist

Environmental data scientists use computing and mathematics to develop sustainable solutions for environmental problems. Environmental data scientists balance and combine expertise from multiple fields. Analyzing environmental data requires a strong aptitude for math, statistics, and programming, as well as foundational knowledge of environmental sustainability, ecology, and biotechnology. Gathering and communicating this data requires strong fieldwork, teamwork, and leadership skills. Experience with geographic information systems (GIS) and research are also essential to an environmental data scientist’s work.

The environmental data science tasks that professionals in this field complete can include compiling and analyzing data from Antarctic ice core samples, using geographic information systems (GIS) to create computerized maps, collecting temperature data or tree ring measurements, and presenting their data-backed findings to forest managers, private landowners, and industry experts. Environmental data scientists both bridge the communication gap between experts in different scientific fields and help non-scientists better understand the environmental needs, challenges, and solutions around them.

What is Environmental Data Science?

Data scientists use scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from:
noisy (cluttered), structured, and unstructured data. Environmental data scientists apply those same methods and principles to environmental research. 

Environmental data scientists collect data from the environment using various methods, including sensors, satellite imagery, and historical records. They analyze the data with statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and other analytical tools to understand environmental processes and predict future conditions. They may analyze data using traditional statistical analysis or exploratory data analysis—an approach that relies heavily on graphics and other visual tools.

Many environmental scientists are experts in their niche field, but they may not have the knowledge base to see the larger, interdisciplinary picture. Environmental data scientists can bridge the gap between scientists working in different, specialized fields by helping form and communicate a more complete picture of ecological problems. Their findings and data-driven insights can help support decision-making in areas like conservation, resource management, and sustainable development. Their jobs often involve communicating their findings to policymakers, landowners, industry professionals, and individual citizens or communities.

What Do Environmental Data Scientists Do?

Environmental data scientists collect data from various sources, including field measurements, satellite imagery, sensor networks, and publicly available databases. They also manage, store, and organize data so it can be accessed for later analysis. They may develop or program machine learning models to help analyze data or forecast environmental events, like extreme weather, pollution levels, or species distribution shifts.

Environmental data analysts may use regression analysis, time series analysis, and machine learning algorithms to analyze environmental data and identify patterns and trends. They also validate and manually clean data to maintain accuracy and reliability. They may apply this analysis to monitor or predict pollution levels, model fallout from extreme weather events, or inform conservation strategies.

Communication is an important tool in an environmental data scientist’s toolbox. They present their findings to stakeholders — like natural resource managers and environmental engineers — through reports, presentations, and data visualizations. They work with experts from many different industries and scientific disciplines to form holistic solutions to environmental problems. They may support the work of environmental scientists, ecologists, policymakers, and other experts to address complex environmental challenges. They also consider the ethical implications of data collection, analysis, and use.

What Tasks Do Environmental Data Scientists Do?

Environmental data scientists collect, organize, and process diverse data from sources such as sensor readings, satellite imagery, field observations, or government reports. They clean and preprocess the data to ensure accuracy and consistency. They then apply mathematical methods to unravel patterns and trends. This can mean using statistical techniques, such as regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and time series analysis, to develop useful insights. They often develop mathematical models and algorithms to simulate scenarios or predict environmental trends.

Once an environmental data scientist has analyzed the relevant data, they distill their findings into reports, presentations, and visualizations. These need to be understandable by stakeholders at varying levels of expertise. An environmental data scientist must convey complex data-driven insights in a compelling manner to help stakeholders make informed decisions. They collaborate with scientists, policymakers, government agencies, and industry to support interdisciplinary collaboration and contribute to holistic solutions for environmental challenges.

What Skills Do Environmental Data Scientists Need?

Environmental data scientists need strong skills in mathematics, statistics, and analytics. They must also have foundational knowledge in environmental science in order to gather and analyze data within an ecological and natural context. Since environmental data analysts often build their own learning models and algorithms, knowing programming languages like R, Python, and MATLAB, as well as familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) will also support their career. Leadership, communication, and teamwork skills will also help an environmental data scientist present their findings to guide stakeholders in making environmentally conscious decisions.

What Careers Are There in Environmental Data Science?

Environmental data scientists can find employment anywhere trained environmental scientists work, along with any position where statistical analysis is an asset. Some may work for government agencies like the US Environmental Protection Agency and NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Others work in universities as researchers, lecturers, project managers, and research assistants. Environmental data analysts often work closely with primary investigators to support their research efforts.

They can also find their niche in nonprofit organizations, offering skills vital to research funding and publishing reports to advocate for environmental causes. Their ability to communicate data may also put them on the forefront of grant applications. Others work for private industry, presenting their findings to the board of directors or other internal decision makers. 

Job Outlook

Environmental data scientists are part of the intersecting, growing fields of environmental science and data science. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7 percent annual growth in job opportunities for environmental scientists and specialists, which is faster than average. The bureau also anticipates an impressive 36 percent annual growth for data scientist jobs through 2033. Experts in GIS software and data analysis are in particularly high demand across private and public sectors. 

How Much Do Environmental Data Scientists Earn?

Environmental data scientists fall under several different job titles with varying salaries. Environmental scientists and specialists make an average $88,640 per year, while data scientists average $124,590 annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, July 2025. The bureau also reports the top 10 percent of environmental scientists and specialists average $134,830 annual salaries, while the top 10 percent of data scientists earn $194,410 per year.

The Future of Environmental Data Science

The future of environmental data science will be driven by a focus on comprehensive data collection, including real-time measurements through automated processes. Cloud-based data storage increases the potential scope of large, easily accessible yet secure datasets. Advanced analytics can help identify inefficiencies, optimize resource use, and ultimately enhance operational performance. Both cloud storage and advanced analytics will likely improve audit-proof data management to ensure transparency and accountability.

Artificial intelligence will also play a role in the future of environmental data analysis. AI has the potential to enhance predictive analysis, automate routine tasks, and provide deeper insights into environmental impacts. However, this comes with a greater need for transparency and explainable AI to address concerns regarding bias, fairness, and responsible data use.

Pursuing an Environmental Data Science Degree

There are several paths you can take to a career as an environmental data scientist. Most entry-level positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. According to our academic advisor, these tips can help prepare you to pursue a degree in environmental data science or a related field.

Tips for High School Students

If you're currently in high school and are considering getting into an environmental data science field, here are some things to consider.

• Focus on your information technology (IT) skills and math classes, as these will form the basis for your statistical analysis and learning model education. Additionally, courses related to wildlife, biology, ecosystems, and the natural world may also help. Your enjoyment (or not!) of these courses could tell you a lot about whether or not environmental data science may be right for you.
• Read overviews of different environmental and data science degrees to get a sense for one you may want to pursue.

Choosing a College/University for Environmental Data Science

These tips will make it easier for you to select a school where you can study environmental data science:

• It's not necessary to major in a program called "environmental data science" to have a successful career in this industry. Look for schools with math-based degrees and opportunities to gain experience in IT and data science, and tailor your minor and electives to build your understanding of environmental science. 
• You can also go to a school that offers a degree in environmental science, then sharpen your statistics, programming, and communications skills through your minor, electives or concentration.
• Make sure the schools you're considering offer accredited degrees, since most employers will only consider graduates from such institutions.
• Visit the schools you're interested in and ask lots of questions about the programs, scholarships and financial aid opportunities, and application requirements and deadlines.

Apply to the schools you think are the right fit for you and your goals sometime between your junior year and the beginning of your senior year. Get the deadlines on your calendar so you don't miss them.

Tips for College Students

If you’re currently in college, these tips can help you succeed in the environmental data science or analyst field of your choice.

• Work with your academic advisor to choose the appropriate program and courses that will give you the necessary knowledge and skills for a career in environmental data science. Focus on math skills, statistics, GIS, and programming. Balance those with environmental science courses and field experiences.
• Gain experiences in real environmental research and communication projects involving environmental science. Look for opportunities through student organizations, professional conferences, co-ops and internships, and research projects at your institution.
• Sharpen your communication and presentation skills. Look for opportunities to practice with elevator pitches, poster presentations, and team-focused and interdisciplinary experiences.
• Form relationships with faculty members in your program. These connections will help you as you look for relevant environmental data science experience during and after your college career.
• Network with professionals. Whether you're at a conference or an on-campus career fair, seize every opportunity to form connections with professionals in the field—you never know when they could come in handy!
• Keep your resume up to date and brush up on your interviewing skills. Your institution may even have a dedicated career services center that can help you.