Environmental Toxicologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of growing environmental concerns, the role of environmental toxicologists has become more critical than ever.

As the world acknowledges the urgency to address environmental hazards, the demand for skilled professionals who can identify, study, and mitigate the impact of toxins in our environment grows ever stronger.

But what does it really mean to be an environmental toxicologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the complex realm of environmental toxicology,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable environmental toxicologist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into it.

Environmental Toxicologist Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Toxicologists are responsible for studying the harmful effects of various chemical, physical, and biological agents on living organisms and the environment.

They apply their knowledge to protect both human health and the environment.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the impact of toxic substances on the environment and human health
• Designing and conducting experiments to assess toxicity levels of substances
• Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data from environmental toxicity studies
• Developing methods to reduce or eliminate the harmful effects of toxic substances
• Advising on the safe use and disposal of hazardous substances
• Writing scientific reports and papers, and presenting research findings
• Working with policy makers to develop regulations to protect public health and the environment
• Collaborating with other scientists, engineers, and regulatory agencies to address environmental health issues
• Assisting in the development of environmental impact assessments for proposed projects
• Keeping up-to-date with advancements and developments in environmental toxicology

 

Environmental Toxicologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Environmental Toxicologist to join our team.

Your role will involve studying the harmful effects of various chemical, physical, and biological agents on living organisms and the environment.

Environmental Toxicologist responsibilities include evaluating harmful environmental agents, conducting research and lab experiments, and advising on risk assessment and regulatory issues.

Our ideal candidate is experienced in toxicological studies and has a deep understanding of environmental health science.

Ultimately, the role of the Environmental Toxicologist is to provide scientific expertise to identify, understand, and mitigate the effects of toxic substances on the environment and public health.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research to understand the impact of harmful substances on the environment and living organisms
• Perform laboratory experiments and field studies
• Develop and implement risk assessment methods
• Monitor and report on environmental conditions
• Advise on regulatory matters relating to toxic substances
• Develop strategies to mitigate the impacts of harmful substances
• Prepare technical reports and scientific papers
• Communicate research findings to stakeholders
• Stay up-to-date with current research and advancements in the field of environmental toxicology

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Environmental Toxicologist or similar role
• Experience conducting toxicological studies
• Strong knowledge of environmental health science
• Familiarity with laboratory and field research techniques
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific software
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• PhD degree in Toxicology, Environmental Science, or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Toxicologist
• Work Environment: Mostly laboratory-based, with some fieldwork. Some travel may be required for conferences, workshops, or field research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Environmental Sciences or Senior Toxicologist.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Environmental Toxicologist Do?

Environmental Toxicologists are specialized professionals who work in the field of environmental science and public health.

They primarily focus on studying the harmful effects of various chemical, biological, and physical agents on living organisms and the environment.

They conduct research and perform experiments to determine the impact of toxins and pollutants on the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems.

This includes assessing the toxicity of substances such as pesticides, industrial chemicals, and radiation.

Environmental Toxicologists also help develop strategies and policies to manage, control, or eliminate environmental hazards and protect public health.

They often work with government agencies, environmental organizations, and industries to set safety standards and guidelines for the use of potentially harmful substances.

Additionally, they are involved in risk assessment, which involves predicting the likelihood and degree of effects on the environment or public health due to exposure to certain toxins.

Their role may also involve educating the public, students, or other professionals about potential health risks and preventive measures related to environmental toxicology.

In some cases, Environmental Toxicologists may testify in court as expert witnesses on cases related to environmental contamination and its impact on human health and the ecosystem.

 

Environmental Toxicologist Qualifications and Skills

An adept environmental toxicologist should possess the necessary skills and qualifications relevant to the job description, such as:

• Expert understanding and knowledge of environmental toxicology, assessing the harmful impact of toxins on the environment and living organisms
• Research and laboratory skills to conduct tests and experiments on samples and accurately interpret the results
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills to comprehend and solve complex environmental problems
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills to report findings, publish research, and communicate effectively with peers, public, and policymakers
• Proficiency in using various software and tools used in the field of toxicology for data analysis and modeling
• Strong attention to detail in conducting experiments, recording observations, and ensuring the accuracy of findings
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team to collaborate on larger projects and research studies
• Project management skills to coordinate and manage environmental research projects effectively
• Willingness to stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in the field of environmental toxicology
• Physical endurance for potentially long hours of fieldwork and laboratory experiments

 

Environmental Toxicologist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Environmental Toxicologists often hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in toxicology, biology, chemistry, or a related field.

During their studies, they gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience through laboratory work and internships.

For higher-level roles in environmental toxicology, employers usually require a minimum of 2-3 years of experience in the field.

This experience may have been gained through roles such as Laboratory Technician, Research Assistant, or Field Researcher.

Intermediate-level Environmental Toxicologists often have 4-5 years of experience and have developed expertise in specific areas such as risk assessment, environmental impact analysis, or molecular toxicology.

Senior Environmental Toxicologists usually have more than 5 years of experience in the field, and often hold a Ph.D. in toxicology or a related discipline.

They may have previous experience leading research projects or teams, and have a strong record of published research.

Expertise in using laboratory equipment, conducting fieldwork, analyzing data, and writing scientific reports is essential at all levels.

Additionally, a strong understanding of environmental laws and regulations is necessary for this role.

Many Environmental Toxicologists also gain certifications from professional organizations to further validate their skills and experience.

 

Environmental Toxicologist Education and Training Requirements

Environmental Toxicologists typically require a bachelor’s degree in toxicology, environmental science, biology, or a related field.

The bachelor’s degree programs should ideally offer coursework in areas such as biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics, which are crucial to the understanding of toxicology.

For more advanced positions, a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in toxicology or a related field is often required.

These programs provide specialized knowledge in areas such as risk assessment, toxic substances, biochemical mechanisms, and human and environmental health.

Experience in a research setting, often gained through internships or work-study programs during undergraduate or graduate school, is highly valuable for this role.

Environmental Toxicologists should also have a strong understanding of data analysis and statistical software.

In addition, they may choose to become certified by professional organizations such as the American Board of Toxicology.

This certification could be beneficial in showcasing the candidate’s dedication and advanced competence in the field of toxicology.

Continued education through seminars, workshops, and courses is also recommended for staying updated on the latest developments and research in environmental toxicology.

 

Environmental Toxicologist Salary Expectations

An Environmental Toxicologist earns an average salary of $81,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can significantly vary depending on the level of experience, the specialization within the field, and the location of the job.

Furthermore, working for different types of organizations such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions can also influence the salary.

 

Environmental Toxicologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Toxicologist need?

Environmental Toxicologists need to have a strong foundation in toxicology and environmental science.

They should also have excellent analytical skills to interpret data and determine the risks of certain substances.

Communication skills are crucial, as they often have to explain complex scientific concepts to non-scientists.

Additionally, they should possess problem-solving skills to develop strategies for managing environmental risks.

 

Do Environmental Toxicologists need a degree?

Yes, Environmental Toxicologists require a degree.

Most positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, toxicology, or a related field.

However, many positions, especially research-based roles, require a master’s or doctoral degree.

 

What should you look for in an Environmental Toxicologist resume?

An Environmental Toxicologist’s resume should reflect a strong academic background in relevant subjects like toxicology, environmental science, or biochemistry.

Work experience in environmental risk assessment, research, or policy-making would be beneficial.

Check for demonstrated abilities in lab work, data analysis, and report writing.

Membership in professional bodies or certifications can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Toxicologist?

A good Environmental Toxicologist should be detail-oriented and analytical, with the ability to interpret complex scientific data accurately.

They should be passionate about environmental conservation and committed to staying current with emerging research in their field.

Good communication skills are also important, as they often need to present their findings to various audiences.

 

What are the daily duties of an Environmental Toxicologist?

An Environmental Toxicologist’s daily duties may vary depending on their specific role.

Generally, they spend their time conducting laboratory experiments to assess the toxicity of various substances, analyzing data, and writing reports on their findings.

They may also consult with policymakers to develop strategies for managing environmental risks, and educate the public and other stakeholders about potential environmental hazards.

 

Is it difficult to hire Environmental Toxicologists?

Hiring Environmental Toxicologists can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the field.

It requires candidates with specific educational backgrounds and skills.

As the demand for these professionals grows with increasing environmental concerns, it may become more difficult to find qualified candidates.

Therefore, offering competitive salaries, clear career progression, and opportunities for research can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the truth about what it means to be an environmental toxicologist.

Surprise!

It’s not just about studying harmful substances.

It’s about safeguarding our planet, one environmental assessment at a time.

With our comprehensive environmental toxicologist job description template and practical examples, you’re well equipped to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously designed listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every environmental assessment contributes to a healthier planet.

Let’s protect that future. Together.

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