How to become an environmental engineer
Complete guide on what it takes to become an environmental engineer. Explore key responsibilities, workplaces, and educational pathways, and learn how to build a successful career.
Complete guide on what it takes to become an environmental engineer. Explore key responsibilities, workplaces, and educational pathways, and learn how to build a successful career.
Environmental engineering is a field dedicated to solving some of the most pressing challenges facing our planet today. As an environmental engineer, you’ll apply engineering, biology, chemistry, and environmental science knowledge to develop sustainable solutions that protect public health and preserve natural resources. There are so many paths you can take that include pollution control, waste management, or improving air and water quality. In this blog post, we’ll explore what environmental engineers do, where they work, and the various pathways to enter this awesome profession.
What is a environmental engineer
An environmental engineer is a professional who applies principles of engineering, biology, chemistry, and environmental science to develop solutions for environmental challenges. Their work is focused on improving public health, protecting natural resources, and ensuring sustainable development. Environmental engineers design, plan, and implement projects that address issues such as pollution control, waste management, water treatment, and air quality. In short, they’re helping mother earth!
What does an environmental engineer do
An environmental engineer can do a huge range of activities that solve environmental challenges and improving public health.
What do environmental engineers do? Well it depends..
Environmental engineers are involved in a wide range of activities and responsibilities, including:
- Pollution Management: They design systems to control air and water pollution, such as filtration systems that purify wastewater or scrubbers that reduce harmful emissions from industrial smokestacks.
- Waste Management: Environmental engineers develop strategies for waste disposal and recycling to minimize environmental impact. This includes designing and managing landfills, recycling facilities, and hazardous waste treatment plants.
- Environmental Remediation: They work on projects to clean up contaminated sites, such as oil spills or polluted industrial areas, by assessing damage, designing cleanup strategies, and monitoring progress.
- Compliance and Regulation: Environmental engineers ensure that projects comply with environmental laws and regulations. They obtain necessary permits, prepare reports, and develop standard operating procedures to ensure legal compliance.
- Research and Development: They conduct research to develop new technologies and methods for environmental protection, such as innovative water purification systems or sustainable agricultural practices.
- Public Health and Safety: By improving air and water quality and managing waste, environmental engineers play a vital role in safeguarding public health and preventing disease.
Where do environmental engineers work
1. Government Agencies:
- Regulatory Bodies: Enforcing environmental laws and policies at federal, state, or local levels.
- Public Works: Managing water supply, wastewater treatment, and waste management for municipalities.
2. Private Consulting Firms:
- Environmental Consulting: Offering services like environmental impact assessments, pollution control, and regulatory compliance.
- Engineering Firms: Designing infrastructure projects such as water treatment plants and waste management systems.
3. Industrial and Manufacturing Companies:
- Corporate Environmental Departments: Managing environmental impact and ensuring regulatory compliance in industries like energy, chemicals, and manufacturing.
- Production Facilities: Overseeing waste management, pollution control, and environmental safety at industrial sites.
4. Construction and Infrastructure Companies:
- Construction Projects: Ensuring environmental compliance and implementing sustainable practices in construction.
- Infrastructure Development: Working on large-scale projects like highways and urban developments to minimize environmental impact.
5. Research and Academia:
- Universities and Research Institutions: Conducting research, teaching, and developing new environmental technologies.
- R&D Labs: Innovating in areas like renewable energy and waste reduction.
6. Non-Profit Organizations and NGOs:
- Environmental Advocacy: Working with non-profits on conservation, sustainability, and public education.
- International NGOs: Addressing global environmental challenges, such as water scarcity and pollution, in developing regions.
7. Utilities and Public Services:
- Water and Wastewater Utilities: Managing public water treatment and wastewater systems to ensure safety and compliance.
- Energy Utilities: Minimizing environmental impacts in the renewable energy sector.
8. Environmental Remediation Companies:
- Site Cleanup: Restoring contaminated sites like industrial properties and polluted water bodies.
But WHERE do environmental engineers work
The physical place where environmental engineers work totally depends on so many things. If you’re working in remediation, you might find yourself out in the field, collecting samples or fixing treatment systems, or even on a construction site in a less-than-ideal office trailer. Junior engineers often spend a lot of time on-site, doing hands-on work like taking soil samples, while also handling report writing. On the other hand, more senior engineers typically manage projects from an office setting, overseeing the work and coordinating with teams remotely. It really depends on your role and the specific focus of your environmental engineering work.
How to become an environmental engineer
Educational Pathways
- Undergraduate Degree: To become an environmental engineer through a graduate course, you don’t need an undergraduate degree specifically in environmental engineering. Many programs accept students from related fields like civil engineering, chemistry, biology, or physics, so don’t worry too much about what degree do you need to become an environmental engineer. If your undergraduate background isn’t a perfect match, most graduate programs offer the foundational courses needed to catch up, alongside advanced studies in key areas like water resources, pollution control, and sustainable design. Typical courses taken by environmental engineers include hydrology, environmental chemistry, waste management, and environmental impact assessment. The focus is on building critical skills and knowledge, regardless of your initial academic background.
- Postgraduate Education: While not always necessary, a master's or doctoral degree can be a fast track. It’s actually pretty important if you don’t have a very relevant bachelors. A master's program usually takes an additional two years, while a doctoral program can take three to five years.
- No degree route: What education is needed to become an environmental engineer? Well technically you don’t need anything but becoming an environmental engineer without a traditional bachelor's or master's degree in environmental engineering is super duper hard but not impossible. You will have to do loads of environmental coursework or certifications. You will have to try extra hard to network, get experience and relevant certifications, to get experience and show commitment. Careers in environmental engineering are hard to start without formal education — don’t let anybody tell you otherwise!
Getting good Experience
- Internships and Co-ops: Getting an internship during your studies is highly recommended. It’s the easiest way to get a job for after you graduate! Not just because you may be offered a job with the company that interns you, but also because other companies want people who have done internships especially if you can say that you had received an offer.
- Getting into entry-level environmental engineering jobs: Most environmental engineering companies hire entry-level engineers. Don’t stress about having all the skills and experience right away. What employers really care about is your growth potential. Stay active during your studies and build a strong story that shows your ability to grow quickly. Remember, they’re not focused on the immediate value you bring on day one—they want people who are eager to learn and can develop into future leaders!
Environmental Engineer Certifications in the US that you can get without experience
In the U.S., there are a few environmental engineering certifications that can be pursued without prior work experience. One such certification is the Engineer in Training (EIT), which is an entry-level certification granted by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) after passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. This certification is a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Another option is the Certified Environmental Scientist (CES) offered by the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP), which requires a bachelor's degree in an environmentally related discipline but does not necessarily require work experience. Additionally, the 40-hour HAZWOPER certification is available for those interested in hazardous waste operations and emergency response, and it can be pursued without prior work experience, making it valuable for entry-level positions dealing with hazardous materials. These certifications can help demonstrate foundational knowledge and commitment to the field, enhancing job prospects for aspiring environmental engineers.
Environmental Engineer Certifications in the US that require experience
The Professional Engineer (PE) license is highly regarded and often essential for senior positions, demonstrating a broad understanding of engineering principles.
The Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE) certification from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES) is another prestigious credential that signifies advanced knowledge in specific areas such as air pollution control or hazardous waste management.
Additionally, the Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) certification, offered by the Academy of Board Certified Environmental Professionals (ABCEP), recognizes competence and experience in environmental management. Other valuable certifications include the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) from the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management, which focuses on the management of hazardous materials, and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation, which showcases expertise in sustainable design and construction. These certifications not only enhance your professional credibility but also improve your job prospects and potential for career advancement.
Environmental engineer certifications in the UK
The Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, awarded by the Engineering Council, is a prestigious certification that signifies a high level of competence and professionalism in engineering.
Additionally, the Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) credential, offered by the Society for the Environment, recognizes proficiency in sustainable environmental management and practice. Another valuable certification is the Incorporated Engineer (IEng), which is also granted by the Engineering Council and is ideal for engineers focused on the application of engineering principles.
How long does it take to become an environmental engineer
1. Bachelor’s Degree Route:
Duration: Typically 4 years.
The most common route to becoming an environmental engineer is earning a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field such as civil engineering with a focus on environmental issues.
After graduation, you can start working in entry-level positions. Some may choose to pursue licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can take an additional 4 years of work experience and passing two exams.
2. Master’s Degree Route:
Duration: 5-6 years (4 years for a bachelor’s degree plus 1-2 years for a master’s degree).
For those who want to specialize further or come from a different undergraduate background, pursuing a master’s degree in environmental engineering can be a great option. This path may involve first earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field like chemistry, biology, or civil engineering, followed by a master’s degree that provides specialized environmental engineering training.
A master’s degree can lead to more advanced positions, higher starting salaries, and better opportunities for career advancement.
3. Associate’s Degree Route:
Duration: Typically 2-3 years.
Overview: Some start their careers by earning an associate’s degree in environmental engineering technology or a related field. This route provides foundational knowledge and can lead to technician roles or other entry-level positions in the industry.
After gaining experience, some choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree part-time while working, which can add an additional 2-4 years to their timeline.
4. Experience-Based Route (Without a Degree):
Duration: 7-10 years.
In some cases, individuals may enter the field through work experience, starting in roles like environmental technician or field assistant and gradually moving up. This path typically involves on-the-job training, taking courses part-time, and possibly earning certifications.
While it may take longer to reach an engineer-level position, this route is possible, especially for those who gain significant industry experience and continue to develop their skills.
How much does an environmental engineer make
An environmental engineer salary in the United States can vary significantly based on region and experience level. Nationally, the average salary is approximately $96,820 per year, with entry-level positions starting around $59,820 and potentially reaching up to $153,200 for experienced engineers.
By Region:
- In California, environmental engineers earn an average of $115,250 annually, the highest among states, followed by Texas at $104,190 and Washington at $104,650.
- San Francisco is the top-paying metropolitan area, where salaries are about 25% above the national average.
By Experience Level:
- An entry-level environmental engineering salary is usually around $74,000, with a range typically between $65,000 and $85,000.
- Mid-career engineers with 5-9 years of experience earn around $75,000 annually, while those with 10-19 years of experience make approximately $90,000.
- Senior engineers with over 20 years of experience can earn about $130,000 per year
In the UK, the average salary for an environmental engineer is about £45,500 per year, with starting salaries typically around £23,650 and the potential to exceed £115,000 for senior roles. These figures can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and specific job responsibilities.
FAQs
Do I need to be super good at maths?
Most engineering jobs, especially in environmental engineering, don’t need you to use hard math regularly. Computer programs handle the complex calculations. But, you’ll need to learn advanced math to earn your degree and certifications. Just make sure you’re proficient enough to complete your degree and get the necessary certifications or licenses.
Do I need to be good with people?
Yes! Even environmental engineers in technical/design roles say about 70-90% of their job is writing and talking to people. Being good with people is one of the most important environmental engineering skills you can have.
