Environmental Engineer Career Path

Overview

Environmental engineers are responsible for protecting the environment and public health from the harmful effects of pollution. They work to clean up contaminated air, water, and soil, and to prevent future pollution from occurring. Environmental engineers use their knowledge of science and engineering to design and implement solutions to environmental problems.

Education

Environmental engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field, such as civil engineering or chemical engineering. Some environmental engineers also have a master’s degree or doctorate in environmental engineering or a related field.

Job Duties

Environmental engineers perform a variety of duties, including:

Conducting environmental assessments to identify and characterize environmental hazards
Designing and implementing solutions to environmental problems, such as air pollution control systems and water treatment plants
Monitoring and enforcing environmental regulations
Educating the public about environmental issues

Work Environment

Environmental engineers typically work in offices, laboratories, or field settings. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or nonprofit organizations. Environmental engineers often work with other professionals, such as scientists, engineers, and attorneys.

Salary

The median annual salary for environmental engineers was $91,410 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent of environmental engineers earned less than $50,120, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $152,060.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for environmental engineers is expected to be good over the next decade. The increased demand for environmental protection and the need to address climate change are expected to drive job growth in this field.

Advancement Opportunities

With experience, environmental engineers can advance to management positions, such as project manager or department head. They may also become involved in research and development or teaching.

Other careers related to environmental engineering include: