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Environmental Scientist Salary in Adelaide

Environment

Environmental scientists study and advise on environmental issues and conservation.

Average Salary
$76,500
per year
Take-Home Pay
$61,232
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$54-108k
$77K
$54K$108K

Job Market Outlook

Medium AI Risk

Mixed work with some tasks that AI can assist or automate

Balanced

Job supply roughly matches candidate availability

+15% growth

Strong projected employment growth over 5 years

Sources: Microsoft Research 2025, Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List

Environmental Scientist Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Adelaide

Based on the average Environmental Scientist salary of $76,500 in Adelaide, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$76,500$76,500
Income Tax-$13,738-$13,738
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,530-$1,530
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$2,295
Superannuation (11%)+$8,415+$8,415
Annual Take-Home$61,232$58,937
Monthly Take-Home$5,103$4,911
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,355$2,267

Calculate Your Exact Take-Home Pay

Enter your actual salary to see a personalized breakdown including your specific tax situation, HECS debt, and family status.

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Your salary
$77,000
Take-home$61,232
Tax-$13,738
Super+$8,415

How to Become a Environmental Scientist

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Environmental Scientist in South Australia.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field
  • Knowledge of environmental legislation
  • Fieldwork and data analysis skills
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's or PhD in environmental discipline
  • Specific technical skills (GIS, water quality)
  • Industry experience in consulting or government
Relevant Certifications
Certified Environmental Practitioner (CEnvP)GIS certificationsWhite Card (for construction sites)

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$54KEntry$77KMid$96KSenior$115KLead
Entry Level

Graduate Environmental Scientist

$53,550
estimated in Adelaide
0-3 years
Mid Level

Environmental Scientist

$76,500
estimated in Adelaide
3-7 years
Senior Level

Senior Environmental Scientist

$95,625
estimated in Adelaide
7-12 years
Leadership

Principal Scientist / Director

$114,750
estimated in Adelaide
12+ years

Skills in Demand

Environmental impact assessmentGIS and spatial analysisContamination assessmentSustainability consultingClimate adaptation planning

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Mining and resources sector pays well
  2. 2Consulting offers variety and faster progression
  3. 3Government roles offer stability and policy influence
  4. 4CEnvP certification enhances credibility
  5. 5Develop strong report writing skills

Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.

Environmental Scientist Hourly Rate in Adelaide

Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):

Entry Level
$27/hr
Average
$39/hr
Senior
$55/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Environmental Scientist earn in Adelaide?

The average Environmental Scientist salary in Adelaide is $76,500 per year, or approximately $39 per hour. Salaries range from $54,000 to $108,000 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Environmental Scientist in Adelaide?

A Environmental Scientist earning $76,500 in Adelaide takes home approximately $61,232 per year after tax, or $5,103 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $58,937 per year.

How much do Environmental Scientists make per hour in Adelaide?

Environmental Scientists in Adelaide earn approximately $39 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $27/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $55/hour.

Is Adelaide a good place to work as a Environmental Scientist?

Adelaide offers Environmental Scientist salaries around average in Australia at $76,500. The city has a cost of living index of 82 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Environmental Scientist Salaries in Adelaide

The average Environmental Scientist in Adelaide, South Australia earns $76,500 per year, or approximately $39 per hour. Salaries typically range from $54,000 for entry-level positions to $108,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Environmental Scientist earning the average salary in Adelaide can expect to take home approximately $61,232 per year, or $5,103 per month.

Adelaide is home to approximately 1.4 million people and has a cost of living index of 82 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Adelaide are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Environmental Scientist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $54,000, while senior roles can reach $108,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Environmental Scientist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Adelaide's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Environmental Scientists earn $$27-$55 per hour.

Salary data is based on industry reports, job postings, and government statistics. Individual salaries may vary based on experience, qualifications, and employer. Tax calculations are estimates for the 2024-25 financial year.