Environmental Engineer
An Environmental Engineer is a professional who utilizes principles from chemical, biological, and mechanical sciences to address and mitigate environmental pollution and hazards. They focus on designing, implementing, and managing systems for cleaning air and water, waste management, and public health safety. This role requires a proactive approach to investigate polluted sites, conduct environmental impact assessments, and provide expertise on cleanup projects. Environmental engineers typically work at various sites, including construction areas, landfill sites, and industrial plants, where they may face exposure to hazardous materials.
The profession demands a bachelor's degree in engineering, with strong foundations in natural sciences and mathematics being essential for entry. With a median annual salary of around $100,090 and a job outlook projected to grow faster than average, this field is increasingly relevant, especially as interest in sustainable practices and green technologies rises. Environmental engineers often collaborate with government agencies and other professionals to develop policies and systems that protect the environment and promote safe practices in both public and private sectors.
Environmental Engineer
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources, Manufacturing, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Science, mathematics, environmental issues, research, data analysis
Earnings (Yearly Median): $100,090 per year $48.12 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 6% (Faster than average)
Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Environmental engineers use the chemical, biological, and mechanical sciences to quantify, analyze, and mitigate pollution and other dangers to the natural environment. They design, implement, and supervise the operation of environmental systems that gauge and clean up water and air pollution, waste and wastewater, and other public health risks. Environmental engineers investigate polluted areas, write environmental impact assessments, and provide technical expertise and advice on environmental cleanup projects. Environmental engineers usually specialize in one area of the field, such as water pollution or solid waste management.
Work Environment. Environmental engineers perform a great deal of their work at construction areas, pollution cleanup sites, reservoirs and water supply pipelines, forests, waste storage facilities and landfills, and other areas in the field. Extensive travel may be required for fieldwork. In the field, there is a substantial risk of exposure to toxic chemicals and pollutants. Environmental engineers also work in engineering and industrial plants, laboratories, government agencies, architectural firms, and other controlled environments. These settings are typically clean, pleasant, and safe. Environmental engineers usually work a regular forty-hour workweek, although they may work additional hours when deadlines loom or emergencies occur.
Occupation Interest. Environmental engineers are integral figures in the effort to protect the environment, natural resources, and wildlife from the threat of pollution and toxic substances. Environmental engineers rely on science and data (rather than political rhetoric or personal opinion) when they author assessments and other reports. In light of their evidence-based approach, they are seen as nonpartisan, reliable resources in the field of environmental protection and pollution abatement. Environmental engineering is considered an extremely “hands-on” area of specialization because it involves a significant amount of work in dirty conditions outdoors in all weather conditions. The field of environmental engineering continues to thrive with the growing popularity of “green” technologies and alternative energy. As a result, job prospects for environmental engineers are favorable.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Environmental engineers examine industrial and municipal sites to ensure compliance with environmental regulations as well as efficiency in system operations. They assess safety issues and make recommendations to protect workers. Engineers test emissions and waste to ensure that the environment is not exposed to excessive amounts of toxic pollution. Environmental engineers also help design and implement environmental systems and programs. Some engineers design wastewater filtration, recycling, waste containment, air quality, and municipal water systems.
Environmental engineers also conduct research on the impact of industrial processes on the environment. They study acid rain, global climate change, air pollution, water quality, deforestation, wildlife population reductions, and other environmental issues. Environmental engineers write scholarly papers on these subjects, as well as environmental impact assessments and reports for the government and private corporations. Many environmental engineers help lawmakers and government officials craft environmental policies and regulations and conduct research on the effectiveness of such policies.
Furthermore, environmental engineers frequently work with other scientists to build and improve large-scale environmental systems and programs. In this capacity, engineers help build roads and bridges, expand communities, and develop real estate. They develop and maintain plans, obtain permits, and implement operating procedures so that such large-scale projects proceed within standards that protect the natural environment as much as possible.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Environmental engineers work in clean, bright office spaces, such as architectural firms, consulting businesses, and government offices. They also work in plants and manufacturing facilities where they risk exposure to hazardous materials and/or injury from heavy machinery. At construction sites and pollution cleanup scenes, there may also be a risk of injury and/or exposure to toxic chemicals.
Human Environment. Environmental engineers interact with government officials, environmentalists and environmental scientists, other engineers, laboratory technicians, construction managers and contractors, and architects.
Technological Environment. Environmental engineers use a wide range of tools and technologies to perform their work. They use air velocity and temperature monitors, drills, spectrometers and photometers, and other measurement tools and detection equipment. They also use computer modeling and design software, including computer-aided design (CAD), photo-imaging, government compliance, scientific, and basic office programs.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students should study a wide range of natural sciences, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences, to prepare for a career in environmental engineering. They should take as many mathematics courses as possible, including algebra, geometry, calculus, and trigonometry. Classes in social studies, political science, history, and other humanities can provide an understanding of current environmental issues. Computer science and drafting classes are also highly beneficial. Students should develop strong writing skills by taking English or composition classes.
Postsecondary. Aspiring environmental engineers must earn at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering. While pursuing this undergraduate degree, they are encouraged to take courses in natural and environmental studies. Engineers may improve their career prospects by obtaining advanced degrees in engineering with a focus on an environmental field.
Related Occupations
− Chemist
− Environmental Science Technician
− Forester & Conservation Scientist
Bibliography
"Environmental Engineers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/environmental-engineers.htm. Accessed 26 Aug. 2028.