Physical Sciences

Interest Area

Explore how nature shapes our earth, oceans, and universe. Students who complete an area of study in Physical Sciences will develop skills in the application of mathematics, analysis, scientific writing and laboratory techniques to a large cross section of physical phenomena. Areas of study include Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Geology, and Oceanography.

Programs of Study

Fast Track Career Path

Chemistry

UC Transfer
CSU Transfer
AS

Geology

UC Transfer
CSU Transfer
AS

Physics

UC Transfer
CSU Transfer
AS

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Water/Wastewater Engineers

Median Salary

$112,045

Job Growth

-7%

Education

Bachelor's Degree
70%

Master's Degree
30%

View Career

Design or oversee projects involving provision of potable water, disposal of wastewater and sewage, or prevention of flood-related damage. Prepare environmental documentation for water resources, regulatory program compliance, data management and analysis, and field work. Perform hydraulic modeling and pipeline design.

New workers start around $53,658. Normal pay is $112,045 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $178,429.

Education

Bachelor's Degree
70%

Master's Degree
30%

Core Tasks

Provide technical direction or supervision to junior engineers, engineering or computer-aided design (CAD) technicians, or other technical personnel.
Review and critique proposals, plans, or designs related to water or wastewater treatment systems.
Design domestic or industrial water or wastewater treatment plants, including advanced facilities with sequencing batch reactors (SBR), membranes, lift stations, headworks, surge overflow basins, ultraviolet disinfection systems, aerobic digesters, sludge lagoons, or control buildings.
Evaluate the operation and maintenance of water or wastewater systems to identify ways to improve their efficiency.
Design or select equipment for use in wastewater processing to ensure compliance with government standards.
Conduct water quality studies to identify and characterize water pollutant sources.
Design water distribution systems for potable or non-potable water.
Design pumping systems, pumping stations, pipelines, force mains, or sewers for the collection of wastewater.
Analyze and recommend chemical, biological, or other wastewater treatment methods to prepare water for industrial or domestic use.
Identify design alternatives for the development of new water resources.
Design water runoff collection networks, water supply channels, or water supply system networks.
Conduct cost-benefit analyses for the construction of water supply systems, runoff collection networks, water and wastewater treatment plants, or wastewater collection systems.
Design water or wastewater lift stations, including water wells.
Provide technical support on water resource or treatment issues to government agencies.
Conduct feasibility studies for the construction of facilities, such as water supply systems, runoff collection networks, water and wastewater treatment plants, or wastewater collection systems.
Analyze storm water or floodplain drainage systems to control erosion, stabilize river banks, repair channel streams, or design bridges.
Oversee the construction of decentralized or on-site wastewater treatment systems, including reclaimed water facilities.
Write technical reports or publications related to water resources development or water use efficiency.
Develop plans for new water resources or water efficiency programs.
Perform hydrological analyses, using three-dimensional simulation software, to model the movement of water or forecast the dispersion of chemical pollutants in the water supply.
Perform hydraulic analyses of water supply systems or water distribution networks to model flow characteristics, test for pressure losses, or to identify opportunities to mitigate risks and improve operational efficiency.
Analyze and recommend sludge treatment or disposal methods.
Design water storage tanks or other water storage facilities.
Gather and analyze water use data to forecast water demand.
Design sludge treatment plants.
Conduct environmental impact studies related to water and wastewater collection, treatment, or distribution.
Analyze the efficiency of water delivery structures, such as dams, tainter gates, canals, pipes, penstocks, or cofferdams.

Median Salary

$112,045

Job Growth

-7%

Electrical Engineers

Median Salary

$118,256

Job Growth

-1%

Education

H.S. Diploma or Less
3%

Associate's Degree
2%

Bachelor's Degree
71%

Master's Degree
24%

View Career

Research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.

New workers start around $70,033. Normal pay is $118,256 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $183,676.

Education

H.S. Diploma or Less
3%

Associate's Degree
2%

Bachelor's Degree
71%

Master's Degree
24%

Core Tasks

Operate computer-assisted engineering or design software or equipment to perform engineering tasks.
Prepare technical drawings, specifications of electrical systems, or topographical maps to ensure that installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements.
Confer with engineers, customers, or others to discuss existing or potential engineering projects or products.
Design, implement, maintain, or improve electrical instruments, equipment, facilities, components, products, or systems for commercial, industrial, or domestic purposes.
Direct or coordinate manufacturing, construction, installation, maintenance, support, documentation, or testing activities to ensure compliance with specifications, codes, or customer requirements.
Compile data and write reports regarding existing or potential electrical engineering studies or projects.
Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction, or installation standards or specifications.
Prepare specifications for purchases of materials or equipment.
Supervise or train project team members, as necessary.
Estimate labor, material, or construction costs for budget preparation purposes.

Median Salary

$118,256

Job Growth

-1%

Environmental Engineers

Median Salary

$110,198

Job Growth

-20%

Education

Bachelor's Degree
73%

Master's Degree
27%

View Career

Research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology.

New workers start around $65,832. Normal pay is $110,198 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $158,101.

Education

Bachelor's Degree
73%

Master's Degree
27%

Core Tasks

Provide technical support for environmental remediation or litigation projects, including remediation system design or determination of regulatory applicability.
Collaborate with environmental scientists, planners, hazardous waste technicians, engineers, experts in law or business, or other specialists to address environmental problems.
Assess the existing or potential environmental impact of land use projects on air, water, or land.
Inspect industrial or municipal facilities or programs to evaluate operational effectiveness or ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Advise corporations or government agencies of procedures to follow in cleaning up contaminated sites to protect people and the environment.
Design, or supervise the design of, systems, processes, or equipment for control, management, or remediation of water, air, or soil quality.
Prepare, review, or update environmental investigation or recommendation reports.
Direct installation or operation of environmental monitoring devices or supervise related data collection programs.
Develop site-specific health and safety protocols, such as spill contingency plans or methods for loading or transporting waste.
Obtain, update, or maintain plans, permits, or standard operating procedures.
Prepare or present public briefings on the status of environmental engineering projects.
Provide administrative support for projects by collecting data, providing project documentation, training staff, or performing other general administrative duties.
Coordinate or manage environmental protection programs or projects, assigning or evaluating work.
Request bids from suppliers or consultants.
Monitor progress of environmental improvement programs.
Serve as liaison with federal, state, or local agencies or officials on issues pertaining to solid or hazardous waste program requirements.
Provide assistance with planning, quality assurance, safety inspection protocols, or sampling as part of a team conducting multimedia inspections at complex facilities.
Inform company employees or other interested parties of environmental issues.
Develop, implement, or manage plans or programs related to conservation or management of natural resources.
Advise industries or government agencies about environmental policies and standards.
Provide environmental engineering assistance in network analysis, regulatory analysis, or planning or reviewing database development.
Assist in budget implementation, forecasts, or administration.
Develop proposed project objectives and targets and report to management on progress in attaining them.
Prepare, maintain, or revise quality assurance documentation or procedures.
Prepare hazardous waste manifests or land disposal restriction notifications.
Develop or present environmental compliance training or orientation sessions.

Median Salary

$110,198

Job Growth

-20%

Industrial Engineers

Median Salary

$101,706

Job Growth

-1%

Education

H.S. Diploma or Less
8%

Some College
16%

Associate's Degree
3%

Bachelor's Degree
63%

Master's Degree
11%

View Career

Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes, including human work factors, quality control, inventory control, logistics and material flow, cost analysis, and production coordination.

New workers start around $66,733. Normal pay is $101,706 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $163,409.

Education

H.S. Diploma or Less
8%

Some College
16%

Associate's Degree
3%

Bachelor's Degree
63%

Master's Degree
11%

Core Tasks

Estimate production costs, cost saving methods, and the effects of product design changes on expenditures for management review, action, and control.
Plan and establish sequence of operations to fabricate and assemble parts or products and to promote efficient utilization.
Analyze statistical data and product specifications to determine standards and establish quality and reliability objectives of finished product.
Confer with clients, vendors, staff, and management personnel regarding purchases, product and production specifications, manufacturing capabilities, or project status.
Communicate with management and user personnel to develop production and design standards.
Recommend methods for improving utilization of personnel, material, and utilities.
Record or oversee recording of information to ensure currency of engineering drawings and documentation of production problems.
Evaluate precision and accuracy of production and testing equipment and engineering drawings to formulate corrective action plan.
Draft and design layout of equipment, materials, and workspace to illustrate maximum efficiency using drafting tools and computer.
Direct workers engaged in product measurement, inspection, and testing activities to ensure quality control and reliability.
Develop manufacturing methods, labor utilization standards, and cost analysis systems to promote efficient staff and facility utilization.
Review production schedules, engineering specifications, orders, and related information to obtain knowledge of manufacturing methods, procedures, and activities.
Implement methods and procedures for disposition of discrepant material and defective or damaged parts, and assess cost and responsibility.
Complete production reports, purchase orders, and material, tool, and equipment lists.
Coordinate and implement quality control objectives, activities, or procedures to resolve production problems, maximize product reliability, or minimize costs.
Apply statistical methods and perform mathematical calculations to determine manufacturing processes, staff requirements, and production standards.
Study operations sequence, material flow, functional statements, organization charts, and project information to determine worker functions and responsibilities.
Formulate sampling procedures and designs and develop forms and instructions for recording, evaluating, and reporting quality and reliability data.

Median Salary

$101,706

Job Growth

-1%

Marine Engineers and Naval Architects

Median Salary

$99,570

Job Growth

+1%

Education

H.S. Diploma or Less
4%

Certificate
4%

Some College
4%

Bachelor's Degree
78%

Master's Degree
9%

View Career

Design, develop, and evaluate the operation of marine vessels, ship machinery, and related equipment, such as power supply and propulsion systems.

New workers start around $57,803. Normal pay is $99,570 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $157,414.

Education

H.S. Diploma or Less
4%

Certificate
4%

Some College
4%

Bachelor's Degree
78%

Master's Degree
9%

Core Tasks

Design complete hull and superstructure according to specifications and test data, in conformity with standards of safety, efficiency, and economy.
Supervise other engineers and crew members and train them for routine and emergency duties.
Study design proposals and specifications to establish basic characteristics of craft, such as size, weight, speed, propulsion, displacement, and draft.
Perform monitoring activities to ensure that ships comply with international regulations and standards for life-saving equipment and pollution preventatives.
Oversee construction and testing of prototype in model basin and develop sectional and waterline curves of hull to establish center of gravity, ideal hull form, and buoyancy and stability data.
Evaluate performance of craft during dock and sea trials to determine design changes and conformance with national and international standards.
Prepare plans, estimates, design and construction schedules, and contract specifications, including any special provisions.
Check, test, and maintain automatic controls and alarm systems.
Design layout of craft interior, including cargo space, passenger compartments, ladder wells, and elevators.
Evaluate operation of marine equipment during acceptance testing and shakedown cruises.
Act as liaisons between ships' captains and shore personnel to ensure that schedules and budgets are maintained, and that ships are operated safely and efficiently.
Conduct environmental, operational, or performance tests on marine machinery and equipment.
Inspect marine equipment and machinery to draw up work requests and job specifications.
Prepare, or direct the preparation of, product or system layouts and detailed drawings and schematics.
Investigate and observe tests on machinery and equipment for compliance with standards.
Maintain records of engineering department activities, including expense records and details of equipment maintenance and repairs.
Coordinate activities with regulatory bodies to ensure repairs and alterations are at minimum cost and consistent with safety.
Design and oversee testing, installation, and repair of marine apparatus and equipment.
Prepare technical reports for use by engineering, management, or sales personnel.
Procure materials needed to repair marine equipment and machinery.
Maintain contact with, and formulate reports for, contractors and clients to ensure completion of work at minimum cost.
Maintain and coordinate repair of marine machinery and equipment for installation on vessels.
Confer with research personnel to clarify or resolve problems and to develop or modify designs.
Conduct analytical, environmental, operational, or performance studies to develop designs for products, such as marine engines, equipment, and structures.
Determine conditions under which tests are to be conducted, as well as sequences and phases of test operations.
Review work requests and compare them with previous work completed on ships to ensure that costs are economically sound.
Analyze data to determine feasibility of product proposals.

Median Salary

$99,570

Job Growth

+1%

Materials Engineers

Median Salary

$107,453

Job Growth

-10%

Education

Bachelor's Degree
52%

Master's Degree
10%

Doctoral or More
38%

View Career

Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.

New workers start around $69,160. Normal pay is $107,453 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $171,371.

Education

Bachelor's Degree
52%

Master's Degree
10%

Doctoral or More
38%

Core Tasks

Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions.
Design and direct the testing or control of processing procedures.
Monitor material performance and evaluate material deterioration.
Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.
Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.
Modify properties of metal alloys, using thermal and mechanical treatments.
Guide technical staff in developing materials for specific uses in projected products or devices.
Determine appropriate methods for fabricating and joining materials.
Review new product plans and make recommendations for material selection, based on design objectives, such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost.
Supervise the work of technologists, technicians, and other engineers and scientists.
Plan and implement laboratory operations to develop material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards.
Plan and evaluate new projects, consulting with other engineers and corporate executives as necessary.
Supervise production and testing processes in industrial settings, such as metal refining facilities, smelting or foundry operations, or nonmetallic materials production operations.
Solve problems in a number of engineering fields, such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, nuclear, and aerospace.
Conduct training sessions on new material products, applications, or manufacturing methods for customers and their employees.
Perform managerial functions, such as preparing proposals and budgets, analyzing labor costs, and writing reports.
Present technical information at conferences.
Replicate the characteristics of materials and their components with computers.
Design processing plants and equipment.
Write for technical magazines, journals, and trade association publications.

Median Salary

$107,453

Job Growth

-10%

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Physical Sciences

School of Physical Sciences Contact

Programs of Study

Chemistry

Geology

Physics

Explore Careers

Water/Wastewater Engineers

Electrical Engineers

Environmental Engineers

Industrial Engineers

Marine Engineers and Naval Architects

Materials Engineers

Is this Interest Area right for you?

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Plan Your Classes

Get Ready for College

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Supporting You

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Academic Help

Safety & Wellness

Welcome Lasers

Get Involved

Your Community

Campus

Finish Your Path at IVC

Transfer

Earn Your Degree or Certificate

Transcripts & Records

Physical Sciences

School of Physical Sciences Contact

Programs of Study

Chemistry

Geology

Physics

Explore Careers

Water/Wastewater Engineers

Electrical Engineers

Environmental Engineers

Industrial Engineers

Marine Engineers and Naval Architects

Materials Engineers

Is this Interest Area right for you?

Business Sciences

Humanities

Integrated Design, Engineering & Automation

Kinesiology, Health & Athletics

Languages & Learning Resources

Life Sciences & Technologies

Mathematics & Computer Science

Social & Behavioral Sciences

The Arts

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