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Environmental Scientist Salary in Sydney

Environment

Environmental scientists study and advise on environmental issues and conservation.

Average Salary
$93,500
per year
Take-Home Pay
$71,857
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$66-132k
$94K
$66K$132K

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 Sydney

Based on the average Environmental Scientist salary of $93,500 in Sydney, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$93,500$93,500
Income Tax-$18,838-$18,838
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,870-$1,870
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$3,273
Superannuation (11%)+$10,285+$10,285
Annual Take-Home$71,857$68,585
Monthly Take-Home$5,988$5,715
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,764$2,638

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
$94,000
Take-home$71,857
Tax-$18,838
Super+$10,285

How to Become a Environmental Scientist

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

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
$65KEntry$94KMid$117KSenior$140KLead
Entry Level

Graduate Environmental Scientist

$65,450
estimated in Sydney
0-3 years
Mid Level

Environmental Scientist

$93,500
estimated in Sydney
3-7 years
Senior Level

Senior Environmental Scientist

$116,875
estimated in Sydney
7-12 years
Leadership

Principal Scientist / Director

$140,250
estimated in Sydney
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 Sydney

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

Entry Level
$33/hr
Average
$47/hr
Senior
$67/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Environmental Scientist earn in Sydney?

The average Environmental Scientist salary in Sydney is $93,500 per year, or approximately $47 per hour. Salaries range from $66,000 to $132,000 depending on experience.

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

A Environmental Scientist earning $93,500 in Sydney takes home approximately $71,857 per year after tax, or $5,988 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $68,585 per year.

How much do Environmental Scientists make per hour in Sydney?

Environmental Scientists in Sydney earn approximately $47 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $33/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $67/hour.

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

Sydney offers Environmental Scientist salaries among the highest in Australia at $93,500. The city has a cost of living index of 100 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are similar to Sydney.

About Environmental Scientist Salaries in Sydney

The average Environmental Scientist in Sydney, New South Wales earns $93,500 per year, or approximately $47 per hour. Salaries typically range from $66,000 for entry-level positions to $132,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Environmental Scientist earning the average salary in Sydney can expect to take home approximately $71,857 per year, or $5,988 per month.

Sydney is home to approximately 5.3 million people and has a cost of living index of 100 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Sydney are similar to Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Environmental Scientist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $66,000, while senior roles can reach $132,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Environmental Scientist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Sydney's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Environmental Scientists earn $$33-$67 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.