Environmental Science Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary 2025, Top Recruiters/Companies
Akansha BishtContent Writer
Environmental Science career scope is vast in India as students can opt for employment opportunities in both government and private sectors. Environmental Sciences courses involve subjects like Geology, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Ecology, Earth Science, etc., focusing on the environment and different processes that take place on the Earth.
The purpose of Environmental Science courses is to work on issues such as global warming, pollution, floods, earthquakes, waste management and sustainable development. Environmental Science courses can be pursued at various levels like undergraduate, postgraduate, diplomas, and certifications.
Students can find Environmental Science jobs in various fields such as Food processing industries, Mining companies, Urban planning commissions, Waste treatment industries, Textile mills, Oil refineries, etc.
Some popular Environmental Science employment opportunities are Microbiologist, Environmentalist, Natural Resource Specialist, Wildlife Biologist, Environment Journalist, Conservation Hydrologist, etc. The average starting salary for an Environmental Consultant is INR 7.6 LPA.
Students can seek career opportunities in Environmental Science such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Animal Welfare Board of India, Wildlife Institute of India, Zoological Survey of India, Marcuras Water Treatment (India) Pvt. Ltd, Paques India, Flow Dynamics India, and more.
University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Symbiosis International, Delhi University, Mumbai University, etc., are some popular colleges offering placement opportunities. Interested candidates can continue reading the article to gather more details.
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Environmental Science Career: Quick Facts
- Why Choose Environmental Science?
- Top Career Profiles in Environmental Science
- Environmental Science Career Scope
- 3.1 Specialisation-Wise Environmental Science Salary in India
- 3.2 Environmental Science Job Sectors in India
- 3.3 Environmental Science Top Recruiters in India
- Environmental Science Jobs in the Government and Private Sector
- 4.1 Environmental Science Jobs in the Government Sector
- 4.2 Environmental Science Jobs in the Private Sector
- Best Environmental Science Colleges for Placements (in India)
- Top Indian Cities to Get Lucrative Jobs After Environmental Science Course
- Environmental Science Career FAQs
Why Choose Environmental Science?
The study of Environmental Science focuses on how natural systems function and how people interact with them. To address urgent environmental issues, this interdisciplinary field integrates knowledge from Environmental Science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology, and Ecology.
Environmental scientists research the environment, how human activity affects it, and how to solve environmental issues. A career in environmental sciences offers numerous advantages, such as stable employment, rewarding work, and the chance to positively influence the world.
- The need for environmental scientists is growing as more people realize how important it is to preserve the environment. Environmental scientists can find employment in a range of places, such as government offices, private sector companies, non-profit groups, and consulting firms. They might work on problems like pollution, resource management, conservation, and climate change. Professionals with knowledge and expertise in environmental issues are increasingly needed as these issues become more complex.
- A career in Environmental Science also offers the chance to work on meaningful projects. The desire to have a positive impact on the world and protect the environment draws a lot of people to this field. Environmental scientists can work on a variety of topics, such as sustainable agriculture, renewable energy development, and wildlife conservation. Additionally, they can work on initiatives that support the health and well-being of residents who are impacted by environmental issues.
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Top Career Profiles in Environmental Science
India offers a wide range of Environmental Science opportunities in the career field. With growing awareness of environmental issues and increased focus on sustainable development, there is a demand for professionals who can address environmental challenges. Here are some Environmental Science job profiles in India:
| Job Profiles |
Job Description |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Consultant |
They work with organizations to ensure they comply with environmental regulations. |
INR 7.6 LPA |
| Environmental Scientist |
They research and analyze environmental issues, conduct field studies, and collect data on various aspects of the environment. |
INR 3.3 LPA |
| Environmental Health Officer |
An Environmental Health Officer (EHO) is a trained professional responsible for ensuring public health and safety by monitoring and enforcing regulations related to environmental health. |
INR 4.2 LPA |
| Environmental Engineer |
They are professionals who use engineering principles and scientific knowledge to design, develop, and implement solutions to environmental problems and challenges. |
INR 4.5 LPA |
| Biologist |
A biologist is a scientist who studies living organisms and their interactions with their environment. |
INR 5 LPA |
| Conservation Scientist |
Conservation scientists are professionals who specialize in the study and implementation of strategies to protect and preserve natural resources, ecosystems, and biodiversity. |
INR 3.5 LPA |
| Research Biologist |
Professionals in this field research and protect wildlife and their habitats. |
INR 4 LPA |
| Ecologist |
An ecologist is a scientist who studies the relationships between organisms and their environments. |
9.6 LPA |
| Environmental Engineer |
Environmental engineers use engineering disciplines in developing solutions to problems of planetary health. |
4.4 LPA |
| Geologist |
A geologist is a scientist who studies the Earth's structure, composition, and processes that have shaped it over time. |
6.5 LPA |
Note: The salary data has been sourced from Ambitionbox.com.
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Environmental Science Career Scope
Specialisation-Wise Environmental Science Salary in India
Environmental Science is a multidisciplinary field with numerous specializations offered at various educational institutions in India. These specializations cater to different aspects of Environmental Science and management.
Here is a list of some common Environmental Science specializations along with their average salary offered in India:
| Specialisations |
Entry-Level CTC |
Mid-Level CTC |
Senior-Level CTC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Management |
INR 2.5 - 5 LPA |
INR 5 - 8 LPA |
INR 8 - 15 LPA |
| Biodiversity Conservation |
INR 2 - 4 LPA |
INR 4 - 8 LPA |
INR 8 - 15 LPA |
| Environmental Engineering |
INR 2.5 - 4.5 LPA |
INR 4.5 - 7.5 LPA |
INR 7.5 - 15 LPA |
| Climate Change and Sustainable Development |
INR 2.5 - 5 LPA |
INR 5 - 9 LPA |
INR 9 - 16 LPA |
| Environmental Policy and Governance |
INR 2.5 - 5 LPA |
INR 5 - 9 LPA |
INR 9 - 16 LPA |
| Water Resource Management |
INR 2.5 - 4.5 LPA |
INR 4.5 - 7.5 LPA |
INR 7.5 - 15 LPA |
Note: The salary data has been sourced from Ambitionbox.com.
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Environmental Science Job Sectors in India
Environmental Science graduates in India have a wide range of employment opportunities across various sectors. Here are some key employment areas for Environmental Science graduates in the country:
| Key Employment Areas for Environmental Science |
|
|---|---|
| Government Agencies |
NGOS |
| Wildlife Conservation and Research Organizations |
Energy and Renewable Energy Companies |
| Waste and Water Management |
Environmental Compliance and Testing Labs |
Environmental Science Top Recruiters in India
In India, there are various organizations and sectors that actively recruit professionals for a wide range of Environmental Science job roles. Candidates can check top Environmental Science recruiting companies under each industry in the table below.
| Government Agencies |
|
|---|---|
| Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC) |
State Pollution Control Boards |
| Forest Departments |
Municipal Corporations |
| NGOs |
|
| The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) |
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-India) |
| Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) |
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) |
| Wildlife Conservation and Research Organizations |
|
| Wildlife Institute of India (WII) |
Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) |
| Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) |
Botanical Survey of India(BSI) |
| Energy and Renewable Energy Companies |
|
| Adani Green Energy Limited |
Reliance Industries |
| GAIL Limited |
ONGC |
| Waste and Water Management |
|
| VA Tech Wabag |
Thermax India |
| GE Water |
Siemens India- Water Technologies |
| Environmental Compliance and Testing Labs |
|
| Mineslab Services Pvt. Ltd. |
Terracon Ecotech Private Limited |
| Folk Products and Design |
G.R.I.D. |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
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Environmental Science Jobs in the Government and Private Sector
The graduates in India can pursue a wide range of Environmental Science jobs in both the government and private sectors. These Environmental Science jobs often cover areas such as environmental management, research, conservation, policy development, and consulting. Here's an overview of Environmental Science jobs in both sectors.
Environmental Science Jobs in the Government Sector
Government agencies at both the central and state levels are responsible for environmental protection, natural resource management, and policy implementation. Candidates can find some Environmental Science government jobs in the table below:
| Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Officer |
Environmental officers are responsible for monitoring and enforcing environmental laws and regulations. |
INR 4.1 LPA |
| Environmental Engineer |
They work in government agencies, including public works departments, to design and oversee projects related to pollution control, wastewater treatment, and the development of sustainable infrastructure. |
INR 7 LPA |
| Wildlife Biologist/Conservationist |
Government wildlife departments and agencies employ professionals to work on wildlife conservation projects, research, and management of protected areas. |
INR 2.5 LPA |
| Forester |
Foresters work in forestry departments to manage and conserve forests. |
INR 3.5 LPA |
| Environmental Policy Analyst |
Government bodies hire policy analysts to research and develop environmental policies and regulations. |
INR 3 LPA |
Note: The salary data has been sourced from Ambitionbox.com.
Environmental Science Jobs in the Private Sector
The private sector offers diverse roles that focus on environmental management, sustainability, consulting, research, and more. Candidates can find some Environmental Science private jobs in the table below:
| Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Consultant |
Private consulting firms specialize in providing environmental consulting services to a wide range of clients, including businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. |
INR 6.9 LPA |
| Sustainability Manager |
Many private companies, especially those with a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility, employ sustainability managers. |
INR 13.2 LPA |
| GIS Specialist |
in the private sector, they use spatial data to analyze and visualize environmental information. |
INR 6.5 LPA |
| Environmental Scientist |
They may work on research projects related to environmental monitoring, climate change, renewable energy, and sustainable technologies. |
INR 3.5 LPA |
| Water Resource Manager |
Water and wastewater management companies and consulting firms often hire professionals to oversee water resource management, water quality assessment, and water treatment projects. |
INR 18 LPA |
Note: The salary data has been sourced from Ambitionbox.com.
Best Environmental Science Colleges for Placements (in India)
Several colleges in India offering Environmental Science courses have a track record of providing good placements for their graduates. It's important to note that while the institution plays a role in placements, a candidate’s personal skills, internship experiences, and networking efforts also significantly impact their career prospects. Here are some top institutions known for Environmental Science courses and placements:
| Environmental Science Colleges |
Average Package Offered |
|---|---|
| IISc Bangalore Placements | INR 30 LPA |
| IISER Bhopal Placements | INR 19 LPA |
| Mumbai University Placements | INR 18 LPA |
| Delhi University Placements | INR 16 LPA |
| Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University Placements | INR 14.86 LPA |
| SK Somaiya College Placements | INR 11.4 LPA |
| Kalyani University Placements | INR 11 LPA |
| JSS Mysore Placements | INR 9.75 - 10.76 LPA |
| Symbiosis International, Pune Placements | INR 10.3 LPA |
| JNU Placements | INR 9.5 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
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Top Indian Cities to Get Lucrative Jobs After Environmental Science Course
When it comes to getting lucrative Environmental Science jobs after earning a degree in India, several cities offer promising opportunities. The choice of city may depend on various factors, including your specialization in Environmental Science, candidates’ career goals, and personal preferences. Here are some top Indian cities known for offering lucrative Environmental Science jobs:
| Major Cities |
Job Scope |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Hyderabad |
|
INR 3.6 LPA |
| Bengaluru |
|
INR 7.8 LPA |
| Pune |
|
INR 3.2 LPA |
| Mumbai |
|
INR 2.3 LPA |
| Delhi/Delhi-NCR |
|
INR 2.8 LPA |
| Kolkata |
|
INR 3.4 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
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Environmental Science Career FAQs
Q. What career options are available for Environmental Science students?
A. For Environmental Science students, there are numerous career options. A few popular choices are Environmental Health and Safety Officer, Environmental Policy Analyst, Environmental Consultant, Environmental Engineer, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Educator, Environmental Lawyer, and Environmental Consultant. Furthermore, Environmental Science career opportunities for sustainability and conservation can be found in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, and private sector businesses.
Q. What are the roles and responsibilities of an Environmental Scientist?
A. The basic jobs for Environmental Scientists are to provide fresh, creative solutions for pressing environmental problems like soil pollution, hazardous waste management, air and water pollution, solid waste management, and remediation of contaminated sites. For people who are passionate about improving the environment and finding solutions to environmental issues, it can be a very rewarding career. Other tasks may include field research, travelling, activity recording, making reports, etc.
Q. What can I do after my MSc in Environmental Science?
A. An MSc in Environmental Science opens up a wide range of job opportunities in India. Environmental Science professionals play a crucial role in addressing environmental issues, conducting research, managing resources, and promoting sustainable practices.
Here are some common MSc Environmental Science job profiles for individuals in India:
| Job Profiles |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Environmental Consultant |
6.9 LPA |
| Environmental Scientist |
3.5 LPA |
| Environmental Manager |
8.8 LPA |
| Climate Change Analyst |
16 LPA |
| Sustainability Manager |
13 LPA |
| Water Resource Manager |
18 LPA |
| Environmental Policy Analyst |
3 LPA |
Q. What are the differences between Environmental Science, Environmental Management, and Environmental Studies?
A. Environmental Science, Environmental Management, and Environmental Studies are related fields that focus on different aspects of the environment, often with varying areas of emphasis and career goals. Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the three.
| Parameters |
Environmental Science |
Environmental Management |
Environmental Studies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus |
It primarily emphasizes the scientific understanding of the environment, including the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape it. |
It is more focused on the practical aspects of preserving and managing the environment. It involves the planning, implementation, and regulation of policies, programs, and practices to ensure sustainability. |
It takes a broader and more interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues. |
| Interdisciplinary |
Environmental science is highly interdisciplinary, drawing from fields such as Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Ecology, and atmospheric science to study environmental issues. |
While it incorporates scientific principles, environmental management also integrates elements of business, policy, and governance. |
Environmental studies integrate knowledge from the social sciences, humanities, economics, and natural sciences to explore environmental challenges from multiple perspectives. |
| Objective |
Environmental scientists conduct research and analysis to address environmental problems, assess environmental impact, and develop solutions. |
Environmental managers are involved in developing and implementing strategies for environmental sustainability, waste management, conservation, and corporate social responsibility. |
This field often explores the ethical and social implications of environmental issues, including topics such as environmental justice, policy analysis, and sustainability in the context of human societies. |
| Career Focus |
Careers in Environmental Science typically involve research, data analysis, fieldwork, and the development of science-based solutions to environmental challenges. |
Careers in environmental management often revolve around roles in corporate sustainability, government policy and regulation, and consulting. |
Careers in Environmental Studies can involve environmental education, policy analysis, advocacy, and working with organizations that promote sustainable practices and social change. |
Q. Environmental Science or Environmental Engineering: Which is better?
A. Environmental Science focuses on gaining a deep understanding of the environment and its processes, while Environmental Engineering is more focused on designing and implementing engineering solutions to address environmental challenges. Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two courses.
| Parameters |
Environmental Science |
Environmental Engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Course Level |
UG, PG, PhD and Diploma |
UG, PG and Diploma |
| Course Duration |
2 - 3 years |
2-4 years |
| Course Fees |
INR 432 - INR 7.2 Lakh |
INR 5 Lakh - INR 10 Lakh |
| Entrance Exams |
CUET, CUET PG, UGC NET, GATE, etc. |
JEE Main, LPUNEST, MET, GATE, JEE Advanced |
| Popular Colleges |
Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Jadavpur University, etc. |
IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, VIT Vellore, IIT Madras |
| Job Profiles |
Research Associate, Environment Journalist, Naturalist, Ecologist, etc. |
Wasteland Ecologist, Safety Design Manager, Air Quality Engineer, Waste Resource Manager |
| Average Salary |
INR 1.2 LPA - INR 7.5 LPA |
Upto INR 10 LPA |
| Top Recruiters |
AECOM Technology Corporation, Doshion Limited, Earth Water Limited, Gujarat Enviro Protection & Infrastructure Ltd., etc. |
Enviro Analysts & Engineering Pvt. Ltd., Doshion Ltd., NALCO, Paramount Ltd., etc. |
Q. Environmental Science vs Ecology: Which is better?
A. Environmental Science has a broader, interdisciplinary focus that includes societal aspects and policy considerations. Ecology, on the other hand, is a specialized field within Biology that concentrates on the study of ecosystems, species interactions, and ecological processes. Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two courses.
| Parameters |
Environmental Science |
Ecology |
|---|---|---|
| Course Level |
UG, PG, PhD and Diploma |
UG, PG, PhD and Diploma |
| Course Duration |
2 - 3 years |
2-3 years |
| Course Fees |
INR 432 - INR 7.2 Lakh |
20,000-50,000 (per sem) |
| Entrance Exams |
CUET, CUET PG, UGC NET, GATE, etc |
NPAT, CUET |
| Popular Colleges |
Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Jadavpur University, etc. |
IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, VIT Vellore, IIT Madras, etc. |
| Job Profiles |
Research Associate, Environment Journalist, Naturalist, Ecologist, etc. |
Wasteland Ecologist, Safety Design Manager, Air Quality Engineer, Waste Resource Manager |
| Average Salary |
INR 1.2 LPA - INR 7.5 LPA |
Upto INR 10 LPA |
| Top Recruiters |
AECOM Technology Corporation, Doshion Limited, Earth Water Limited, Gujarat Enviro Protection & Infrastructure Ltd., etc. |
Enviro Analysts & Engineering Pvt. Ltd., Doshion Ltd., NALCO, Paramount Ltd., etc. |
Q. Does Environmental Science jobs offer good salary packages?
A. Yes, environmental science can pay well, particularly for those with experience and advanced degrees. Certain job responsibilities, location, and educational attainment can all have an impact on salary. Environmental science careers can take you from working for the government to positions in the private sector, non-profits, and research facilities. All things considered, the field provides chances for fulfilling work and competitive pay.
However, Environmental Science positions pay can differ depending on some factors, including location, industry or organization, experience level, and education. For example, Environmental Scientists can typically command competitive pay, particularly for those with advanced degrees and specialized training. Positions with good pay are frequently available in sectors like research institutes, government agencies, and consulting. For more precise information, it's advisable to look into salary ranges in your industry and area of interest.
Q. What are the different kinds of jobs in the Environmental Science field? What’s the average salary for an Environmental Science employee?
A. You can have a wide range of career options after earning a degree in this field. They can readily find employment in a variety of industries, including the public and private sectors. Another option is to work as a teacher at a university or college. Numerous organizations, including the Water Authority, the Pollution Control Board, and Urban Planning, are hiring in this field. Numerous private businesses, including those in the food processing, refining, distilling, and fertilizer industries, provide graduates in this field with a variety of employment options.
You can find employment as a manager in food processing companies as well as in fertilizer plants. Graduates in this field can also find employment as environmental journalists for any newspaper, magazine, or television network. There are a growing number of NGOs addressing environmental issues; you are welcome to join any of these groups based on your preferences.
Some Environmental Science jobs include Environmental Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Environmental Science Manager, Lecturer, Wildlife Film-maker, Environment Photographer, Environment Journalist, Conservation Hydrologist, etc. In India, the minimum salary of a bachelor’s degree holder in this field is around INR 3 to 4 LPA.
Q. Can I get a job in ISRO with an Environmental Science degree?
A. Yes, ISRO hires for job positions such as Junior Research Fellow, Research Associate, Research Scientist, etc., on both temporary and permanent basis. The degrees required to apply for a job in ISRO are MSc Forestry/ Botany/ Ecology/ Environmental Sciences/ Wildlife Sciences/ Biodiversity & Conservation (or equivalent subject). However, Environmental Science vacancies are limited in numbers, thus, candidates must prepare well for the interview rounds.
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Environmental Sciences provides numerous career opportunities. Graduates can contribute to various work settings such as the private and government sectors, agriculture, and food industry. Big MNCs such as the UN and WHO also recruit Environmentalists for multiple projects. Many companies formulate
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