Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio Career Overview

As an Environmental Data Analyst, you play a vital role in interpreting and managing data that informs environmental policies and practices. Your work aids in addressing pressing environmental challenges by transforming vast amounts of data into actionable insights.

Key aspects of the job include:

  • Data Collection and Analysis: You gather information from various sources, including geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing technologies, and field sampling. Analyzing this data helps identify trends and patterns related to environmental concerns such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

  • Reporting Findings: You produce reports and visualizations that communicate complex data in a clear, understandable manner. These findings are critical for stakeholders such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies to make informed decisions.

  • Support for Policy Development: Your analyses support the formulation of environmental policies by providing evidence-based recommendations. This helps ensure that policies are effective and responsive to ecological needs.

  • Collaboration Across Disciplines: In this role, you often work alongside scientists, policy-makers, and community organizations. This collaborative environment allows you to contribute to interdisciplinary projects that tackle environmental challenges.

  • Contributing to Sustainable Practices: The insights you provide can guide businesses and governments in adopting sustainable practices, improving resource management, and enhancing environmental stewardship.

Your expertise as an Environmental Data Analyst is increasingly important as society seeks to balance economic development with ecological preservation, making your role pivotal in fostering a sustainable future.

Environmental Data Analyst Salary in Ohio

Annual Median: $79,760
Hourly Median: $38.35

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio

To become an Environmental Data Analyst, you will generally need a bachelor's degree in a related field. Here are the specific college degree programs that will prepare you for this career path:

  • Environmental Science: This program focuses on the scientific principles required to understand environmental systems, including coursework in biology, chemistry, geology, and statistics which will aid you in analyzing data related to environmental issues.

  • Environmental Studies: This interdisciplinary program provides a broad understanding of environmental issues, policies, and management strategies. It often covers topics such as sustainability, natural resource management, and socio-economic factors affecting environmental policy.

  • Data Science: A degree in Data Science equips you with the analytical and statistical tools needed to process and interpret large datasets. As an Environmental Data Analyst, knowledge of data mining, machine learning, and statistical analysis will be particularly beneficial.

  • Environmental and Natural Resources Management and Policy: This program combines management principles with environmental science, focusing on policies related to natural resources. Courses often include environmental law and policy analysis, which are vital in understanding data within a regulatory context.

  • Geographic Information Science and Cartography: This degree emphasizes the use of spatial data and technological tools to analyze geographic and environmental data. Proficiency in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is increasingly important for analyzing environmental data and presenting your findings effectively.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, pursuing internships or relevant projects during your studies can enhance your understanding and provide practical experience in the field. Advanced degrees may also be favorable for career advancement, but they are not mandatory for entry-level positions.

Best Schools to become a Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio 2024

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

American Public University System

Charles Town, WV

In-State Tuition:$6,840
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,840
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:48,668

University of California-Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:26%
Graduation Rate:86%
Total Enrollment:26,420

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:45,307

University of Colorado Boulder

Boulder, CO

In-State Tuition:$11,004
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,376
Admission Rate:81%
Graduation Rate:75%
Total Enrollment:39,585

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI

In-State Tuition:$9,273
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,904
Admission Rate:49%
Graduation Rate:89%
Total Enrollment:48,956
Environmental Data Analyst Job Description:
  • Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health.
  • Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.

Environmental Data Analyst Required Skills and Competencies in Ohio

  • Data Analysis Proficiency: You should be adept at analyzing large datasets using statistical methods and software tools. This includes the ability to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies in environmental data.

  • Technical Tool Proficiency: Familiarity with data analysis software such as R, Python, or SAS is essential. Additionally, proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping and spatial analysis can enhance your effectiveness.

  • Mathematical Skills: A solid understanding of mathematical concepts, particularly statistics, is necessary for conducting analyses and interpreting results accurately.

  • Attention to Detail: Your work will often involve meticulous data monitoring and validation. Being detail-oriented will help ensure accuracy in reporting and decision-making.

  • Research Skills: You should be skilled in conducting literature reviews, synthesizing information, and applying relevant methodologies to address environmental problems.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills are important for proposing viable solutions to environmental challenges based on data insights.

  • Communication Skills: The ability to clearly present complex data findings to non-technical stakeholders, both in written and verbal forms, is vital for ensuring that your analyses are understood and applied effectively.

  • Project Management: Competency in managing multiple projects simultaneously, including planning, executing, and monitoring progress, is necessary for meeting deadlines and achieving objectives.

  • Team Collaboration: You should be able to work well in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with scientists, policy makers, and other analysts to achieve common environmental goals.

  • Knowledge of Environmental Regulations: Awareness of local, state, and federal environmental laws and regulations will help frame your analyses within the correct context and ensure compliance in your findings.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adjust to rapidly changing technologies and methodologies in data analysis and environmental science is important for staying relevant in the field.

  • Visualization Skills: Proficiency in data visualization tools, such as Tableau or Power BI, can aid in presenting data in an accessible and visually appealing manner.

  • Ethical Judgment: Understanding the ethical implications of data collection, analysis, and reporting is crucial for maintaining integrity in your work and fostering public trust.

Job Duties for Environmental Data Analysts

  • Collect, synthesize, analyze, manage, and report environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological or mineralogical information, or soil or water samples.

  • Communicate scientific or technical information to the public, organizations, or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions, or public hearings.

  • Monitor effects of pollution or land degradation and recommend means of prevention or control.

Technologies and Skills Used by Environmental Data Analysts

Analytical or scientific software

  • Laboratory information management system LIMS
  • Wolfel IMMI

Data base user interface and query software

  • Microsoft Access
  • Structured query language SQL

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions
  • Teaching people how to do something

Job Market and Opportunities for Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio

The job market for Environmental Data Analysts in Ohio is evolving, influenced by various factors including regulatory requirements, public awareness of environmental issues, and advancements in data technology.

  • Demand: There is a growing demand for Environmental Data Analysts due to heightened focus on sustainability and environmental protection. Organizations across sectors, including government, non-profits, consulting firms, and corporations, increasingly rely on data to inform environmental strategies and compliance.

  • Growth Potential: The field is expected to see steady growth. As more companies adopt sustainable practices and as climate change becomes a pressing concern, the need for skilled analysts who can interpret and present environmental data will continue to rise. Ohio’s commitment to renewable energy and conservation initiatives adds to this upward trend.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Columbus: As the state capital, Columbus is a hub for governmental agencies, non-profits, and research institutions that require data analysis for environmental policy and planning.
    • Cleveland: With its strong industrial base, Cleveland offers opportunities in environmental consulting and industries focused on pollution control and sustainability measures.
    • Cincinnati: This region is home to several key players in the environmental sector, as well as major energy and manufacturing companies that prioritize environmental analytics.
    • Dayton: Known for its engineering and technological advancements, Dayton presents opportunities for Environmental Data Analysts in research and development positions, particularly in areas related to sustainability and environmental technology.

Overall, the demand for Environmental Data Analysts in Ohio reflects a broader national trend, supported by local initiatives promoting environmental responsibility and innovation. This sector is well-positioned for future expansion.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio

  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
    Access federal resources, data sets, and research findings relevant to environmental science and policy.
    EPA Website

  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
    Explore data related to climate, oceans, and atmospheric conditions. NOAA provides tools and datasets vital for environmental analysis.
    NOAA Website

  • Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA)
    Find Ohio-specific environmental data, regulations, and resources for air, land, and water quality.
    Ohio EPA Website

  • Environmental Data Initiative (EDI)
    A collaborative project aimed at improving access to environmental data and fostering data sharing among scientists.
    Environmental Data Initiative

  • Society for Conservation Biology
    This organization focuses on the study and conservation of biodiversity. It offers journals, conferences, and resources relevant to data analysis in conservation.
    Society for Conservation Biology

  • Data.gov
    A comprehensive repository of U.S. government data, including environmental data that can aid in various analyses.
    Data.gov

  • American Society for Environmental History (ASEH)
    Access journals, conferences, and resources related to environmental history, which can provide context to environmental data.
    ASEH Website

  • Environmental Science and Technology Journal
    A leading journal providing research on environmental science issues, methodologies, and data analyses.
    Environmental Science and Technology

  • Ohio State University - School of Environment and Natural Resources
    Offers programs and resources related to environmental data analysis and research projects in Ohio.
    Ohio State University

  • Global Data on Marine Protected Areas
    Provides databases and resources for analyzing marine conservation efforts and effectiveness.
    Marine Protected Areas Database

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Access a variety of courses on data analysis, statistics, and software tools relevant to environmental data analysis.
    LinkedIn Learning

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
    Check out occupational data related to environmental scientists and specialists, including salary statistics and job outlook.
    Bureau of Labor Statistics

  • ResearchGate
    Network with other professionals and access a large database of research papers in the field of environmental data analysis.
    ResearchGate

  • The Nature Conservancy
    Engage with conservation projects and access valuable data and reports focused on biodiversity and ecosystem health.
    The Nature Conservancy

These resources can enhance your knowledge base, support your ongoing education, and provide invaluable data and insights for a successful career as an Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio

  • What does an Environmental Data Analyst do?
    An Environmental Data Analyst collects, processes, and analyzes environmental data to inform decision-making for sustainability initiatives, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection. You may work with data related to air quality, water quality, waste management, or natural resource management.

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Environmental Data Analyst?
    Typically, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, data science, statistics, or a related field. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or relevant certifications. Proficiency in data analysis tools and software such as Excel, R, Python, or GIS is also important.

  • Is there a demand for Environmental Data Analysts in Ohio?
    Yes, there is a growing demand for Environmental Data Analysts in Ohio, especially with the state's focus on sustainability, clean energy, and environmental conservation. Various sectors, including government agencies, non-profits, and private companies, are increasingly relying on data to shape their environmental strategies.

  • What skills are essential for success in this role?
    Key skills include:

    • Strong analytical and statistical skills
    • Proficiency in data visualization tools
    • Knowledge of environmental regulations and policies
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    • Ability to work with cross-functional teams
  • What industries employ Environmental Data Analysts in Ohio?
    You may find opportunities in various sectors, including:

    • Government agencies (e.g., environmental protection agencies)
    • Non-profit organizations focused on conservation
    • Energy companies, particularly those involved in renewable energy
    • Consulting firms that provide environmental assessments
    • Research institutions and universities
  • What does a typical salary look like for an Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio?
    Salaries can vary widely depending on experience, education, and the specific industry. However, the average salary for an Environmental Data Analyst in Ohio ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, with more experienced analysts earning upwards of $90,000.

  • What career advancement opportunities exist for Environmental Data Analysts?
    Career advancement can include roles such as Senior Environmental Data Analyst, Environmental Scientist, or Environmental Consultant. Pursuing additional education and certifications can also enhance your qualifications and lead to leadership positions within an organization.

  • How can I gain experience in this field?
    Gaining experience can involve internships, volunteer work, or entry-level positions related to environmental data analysis. Participating in research projects or obtaining relevant certifications can also help build your skill set and make you a more competitive candidate.

  • Are there professional organizations for Environmental Data Analysts in Ohio?
    Yes, several organizations focus on environmental data analysis and related fields. Consider joining professional associations such as the Ohio Environmental Council or the National Association of Environmental Professionals, which provide networking opportunities and resources for continuing education.

  • What are the trends impacting the field of Environmental Data Analysis?
    Emerging technologies, such as big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and real-time monitoring systems, are significantly influencing the field. There is also a growing emphasis on climate change data analysis and sustainability reporting, which may create new avenues for data analysts in the environmental sector.