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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Environmental Engineers.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Environmental Engineers.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 4%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Assess the existing or potential environmental impact of land use projects on air, water, or land.
Collaborate with environmental scientists, planners, hazardous waste technicians, engineers, experts in law or business, or other specialists to address environmental problems.
Provide technical support for environmental remediation or litigation projects, including remediation system design or determination of regulatory applicability.
Interested in solving environmental challenges and contributing to a sustainable future? Pursuing a career as an environmental engineer might be the perfect fit for you. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to become an environmental engineer, outlining the education, skills, and experience you'll need to enter this rewarding field.
To kickstart your career in environmental engineering, a strong foundation in education is essential.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field such as civil, chemical, or mechanical engineering is typically required. Look for programs that are ABET-accredited to ensure the quality of the engineering education you receive.
Consider Advanced Degrees: While not always necessary, a master's degree can enhance your knowledge and may be required for higher-level positions. A Master of Science in Environmental Engineering delves deeper into topics such as water quality, waste management, and pollution control.
Licensing and certifications can significantly boost your career prospects in environmental engineering.
Become a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Examinee: After earning your degree, take the FE exam, administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Passing this exam allows you to be recognized as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI).
Gain Professional Engineer (PE) License: With several years of work experience under your belt, typically four years for most states, you can sit for the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam in environmental engineering. Obtaining a PE license is crucial for those who wish to have higher responsibilities, such as signing off on projects and leading a team.
Pursue Specialized Certifications: Certifications like the Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE) offered by the American Academy of Environmental Engineers & Scientists can distinguish you as an expert in your field.
Hands-on experience is invaluable in the environmental engineering sector.
Internships and Co-ops: Participate in internships or cooperative education programs during your undergraduate studies. This gives you practical experience and networking opportunities.
Entry-Level Positions: Upon graduation, look for entry-level positions in environmental engineering to build your professional experience.
Continued Learning: Stay updated with the latest environmental regulations, technologies, and practices through workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses.
In addition to technical knowledge, certain soft skills are crucial for success in the environmental engineering field:
Joining professional organizations can provide networking opportunities, access to resources, and industry insights.
By following these steps and committing yourself to continuous learning and professional development, you can establish a successful career as an environmental engineer. Whether working on water treatment systems, air pollution control, or sustainable design practices, your work will contribute significantly to preserving our natural environment for future generations.
To become an environmental engineer, you typically need:
Most practicing environmental engineers will need:
A Professional Engineer (PE) license for career advancement, which requires:
Additional certifications that can be beneficial include:
Entry-level jobs for environmental engineers often include roles such as:
Environmental Engineers can advance their careers by:
Environmental Engineers find employment in various industries, such as:
Key skills for an Environmental Engineer include:
Yes, the demand for Environmental Engineers is expected to grow due to:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of environmental engineers is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Yes, Environmental Engineers have opportunities to work internationally through:
Keep in mind that working internationally may require additional language skills and understanding of different environmental regulations and cultural practices.