Career: Environmental Engineers
Back in 1910, President Theodore Roosevelt stressed the importance of treating our natural resources well. He said that we must pass them on to the next generation improved -- not impaired.
Environmental engineers work toward that goal. They help cities and construction companies find ways to build that don’t damage the environment. They help to clean up environmental problems from the past. They work with factories so they pollute less. Environmental engineers do their part to make sure that the earth will be in good condition for those who live here tomorrow.
Environmental engineers use math and science to address environmental challenges such as hazardous waste and pollution. They also study the impact on the environment of proposed construction projects.
Did You Know?
- Environmentally-minded builders are using straw-filled plaster walls to provide insulation and save trees.
Are You Ready To...?
- Work outdoors and in
- Travel to job sites
- Write reports
- Keep up with new regulations and technology
- Research solutions to problems like acid rain or global warming
- Possibly decide the degree of danger of certain hazardous waste
- Perhaps design ways to treat wastewater
It Helps to Be...
A nature lover who’s a fan of math and science and can solve problems in a creative way. You may need to work with others who don’t always agree with you, so it helps to be calm but persuasive.
Make High School Count
- Go for challenging math and science courses, like calculus, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and biology.
- Pay attention in English. As an engineer, you’ll need to be able to read complex materials and write reports.
- Volunteer, intern, or work with an environmental group. Do a search through The Student Conservation Association.
Did You Know?
- Polluted areas can sometimes be cleaned up by tiny, naturally-occurring organisms that eat the contaminants.
Outlook
Government economists expect jobs for environmental engineers to grow much faster than the average for all careers through 2014. Tougher environmental regulations and efforts to prevent problems before they happen will lead to increased opportunities.
However, a major economic downturn could affect employment, as could a loosening of regulations. The best defense for job seekers is to keep up with developments in the field.
Compensation
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the average yearly earnings of environmental engineers in 2006 as $72,590.
In a 2005 survey, the National Association of Colleges and Employers reported that environmental engineering bachelor’s degree candidates received average starting job offers of $47,384.
