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Environmental Scientist Salary in Geelong

Environment

Environmental scientists study and advise on environmental issues and conservation.

Average Salary
$73,950
per year
Take-Home Pay
$59,498
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$52-104k
$74K
$52K$104K

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 Geelong

Based on the average Environmental Scientist salary of $73,950 in Geelong, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$73,950$73,950
Income Tax-$12,973-$12,973
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,479-$1,479
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$2,219
Superannuation (11%)+$8,135+$8,135
Annual Take-Home$59,498$57,280
Monthly Take-Home$4,958$4,773
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,288$2,203

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
$74,000
Take-home$59,498
Tax-$12,973
Super+$8,135

How to Become a Environmental Scientist

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

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
$52KEntry$74KMid$92KSenior$111KLead
Entry Level

Graduate Environmental Scientist

$51,765
estimated in Geelong
0-3 years
Mid Level

Environmental Scientist

$73,950
estimated in Geelong
3-7 years
Senior Level

Senior Environmental Scientist

$92,438
estimated in Geelong
7-12 years
Leadership

Principal Scientist / Director

$110,925
estimated in Geelong
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 Geelong

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

Entry Level
$26/hr
Average
$37/hr
Senior
$53/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Environmental Scientist earn in Geelong?

The average Environmental Scientist salary in Geelong is $73,950 per year, or approximately $37 per hour. Salaries range from $52,200 to $104,400 depending on experience.

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

A Environmental Scientist earning $73,950 in Geelong takes home approximately $59,498 per year after tax, or $4,958 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $57,280 per year.

How much do Environmental Scientists make per hour in Geelong?

Environmental Scientists in Geelong earn approximately $37 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $26/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $53/hour.

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

Geelong offers Environmental Scientist salaries below average in Australia at $73,950. The city has a cost of living index of 80 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Environmental Scientist Salaries in Geelong

The average Environmental Scientist in Geelong, Victoria earns $73,950 per year, or approximately $37 per hour. Salaries typically range from $52,200 for entry-level positions to $104,400 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Environmental Scientist earning the average salary in Geelong can expect to take home approximately $59,498 per year, or $4,958 per month.

Geelong is home to approximately 270,000 people and has a cost of living index of 80 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Geelong are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Environmental Scientist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $52,200, while senior roles can reach $104,400.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Environmental Scientist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Geelong's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Environmental Scientists earn $$26-$53 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.