Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Science
Environmental Scientist Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for environmental scientist in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Environmental Scientist in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board for Licensing of Soil Scientists
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$65,800 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Board for Licensing of Soil Scientists and monitor board communications.
- 5. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $65,800, Environmental Scientists in North Carolina earn 18% below the national median of $80,060. North Carolina ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$65,800Hourly estimate
$31.6318% below national median
Difference: -$14,260
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEnvironmental Scientist Salary Ranking
#45 of 50 statesfor Environmental Scientist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $97,520 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $96,330 |
| #3 | Oregon | $93,560 |
| #4 | Rhode Island | $90,460 |
| #5 | Illinois | $89,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Environmental Scientist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $65,800 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $78,140 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $76,900 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $82,030 | Specific course required | State exam required | 2-18 years |
| South Carolina | $65,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Board for Licensing of Soil Scientists
P.O. Box 41368, Raleigh, NC, 27629-1368
Phone: 9194175332
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $46,050 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $48,870 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $47,860 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Forester | $70,320 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Environmental Scientist in North Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Environmental Scientists in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Environmental Scientists.
What is the typical Environmental Scientist salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Environmental Scientists in North Carolina is $65,800. Salaries range from $47,160 (10th percentile) to $106,650 (90th percentile).
How does the Environmental Scientist salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Environmental Scientists in North Carolina earn 18% below the national median of $80,060, with a state median of $65,800.
How many Environmental Scientists work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 4,330 Environmental Scientists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Environmental Scientist license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Environmental Scientists in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board for Licensing of Soil Scientists. Review agency details at https://ncblss.wordpress.ncsu.edu/.
How often do you renew a Environmental Scientist license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.