Environmental engineering is a branch of the field that involves applying engineering principles to design systems that protect the environment, use resources sustainably, and improve health outcomes among humans and animals alike. Environmental engineers take on a wide range of roles in today’s global economy, with many focusing on areas such as air and water quality management, wastewater treatment, climate change mitigation, and sustainable design.
What Do Environmental Engineers Do?
Environmental engineers blend scientific reasoning with engineering principles to develop innovative systems that have a positive environmental impact. Sometimes called sustainability engineers, these professionals play a vital role in the clean energy industry. They design solutions that promote environmental protection efforts while aligning with a client’s goals.
The scope of this role varies based on the area in which you specialize and the organization that you work for. Generally speaking, you may be responsible for:
- Creating and designing pollution control systems.
- Monitoring environmental regulations and ensuring that your projects are in line with all regulatory guidelines.
- Generating environmental impact reports about construction projects.
A bachelor’s degree (ideally one specifically in environmental engineering) is required for most roles in the field. In addition, you should focus on soft skill development to become an effective and impactful environmental engineer. Core competencies such as communication, collaboration, systems thinking, and change management will help you present your ideas and build the most powerful solutions.
Different Types of Environmental Engineering Jobs
This specialty is a growing branch of engineering, which means there are many different types of environmental engineering jobs to consider. Students can explore different areas of specialization while developing an advanced understanding of how to apply engineering principles to various systems.
In terms of workplace settings, most environmental engineers work full-time in engineering services, with others working in government agencies and consulting firms. Work settings will vary based on the role, with some primarily working indoors in office environments and others working outdoors in the field, such as on construction sites or in natural areas.
Below, we’ll explore some of the environmental engineering careers that graduates can consider.
Land Surveyor
A land surveyor is an engineering professional who works in the field to measure and map the land that will be used for an upcoming project. Surveyors typically spend a lot of their time on their feet, as they are responsible for taking precise measurements and mapping landscapes. Within the scope of environmental engineering, land surveyors look beyond the features of the land and collect data to better understand the environmental impact of a given engineering project. They often work closely with other engineers on the team to develop environmental impact assessment reports.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers apply the principles of engineering during the design process to create systems that protect the environment or reduce environmental impact.
Responsibilities will vary based on their area of expertise or the organization that they work for. Generally, many are responsible for the following:
- Preparing and presenting reports related to environmental impact.
- Designing systems that control pollution and protect the environment.
- Designing systems that are in line with environmental regulations.
- Collecting and monitoring data related to environmental impact, ensuring that systems protect the environment in the long term.
- Consulting with organizations about environmental impact and providing actionable guidance on the leading environmental issues.
Public Health Engineer
Public health engineers are specialized professionals who work in public health departments to develop systems that protect and promote health within a community. For example, a public health engineer may work closely with municipal governments to design effective wastewater treatment systems, or they may partner with local communities to design public swimming areas that are safe and sanitary.
Green Building Engineer
Green building engineers design buildings and structures that protect the environment, applying engineering principles in a way that aligns with sustainability goals. For instance, they may create buildings that maximize solar power or promote water conservation efforts. They often focus on reducing carbon emissions and restoring local ecosystems.
Wastewater Engineer
Wastewater engineers take on a specialized role within the branch of environmental engineering, working to design and enhance systems that supply water or perform wastewater treatment. Often working in office settings or laboratories, they are typically responsible for:
- Developing modern wastewater treatment facilities.
- Ensuring that all systems align with environmental regulations.
- Conserving water within wastewater treatment facilities.
- Designing systems that reduce pollution.
Wastewater engineering is a highly collaborative field, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy working in teams. Communication and collaboration are two key soft skills that candidates should possess.
Professor
Engineers who enjoy scientific research and want to have a direct impact on the next generation of environmental engineering specialists may want to consider roles in academia. Professors conduct research that fuels innovation and lead college-level courses, allowing them to share information and insight as they guide future environmental engineers.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental consultants are experienced professionals with an extensive background in environmental science and engineering. This versatile, flexible career path gives you the autonomy to develop client relationships on your own terms. Primarily, environmental consultants work with clients to collect and analyze data, perform environmental impact assessments, and provide regulatory guidance. Organizations that cannot employ environmental engineers directly often hire consultants to give them actionable insight about the next best steps to take to reach their sustainability goals.
Responsibilities generally include:
- Assessing properties and identifying areas of concern for contamination.
- Performing environmental audits.
- Completing environmental impact assessments.
- Implementing environmental remediation solutions.
- Offering human health and safety guidance.
Energy Efficiency Engineer
Energy engineers design systems that improve energy efficiency during the construction process. Responsible for designing and implementing energy-saving systems, they often design new construction projects or renovate existing structures. Some energy efficiency engineers specialize in key areas, such as heating and cooling, water filtration, solar energy, or long-term energy storage. No matter the specialization, this role usually involves collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, requiring energy engineers to be adept communicators and creative thinkers.
Prepare for the Leading Environmental Engineering Careers at Unity Environmental University
If you are looking for a career with environmental impact, then environmental engineering is an excellent option. The top environmental engineering jobs allow professionals to apply scientific, evidence-based reasoning to real-world problems, resulting in effective, sustainable solutions.
Offering a high-quality and affordable educational experience, Unity Environmental University is a leader in climate-ready degree programs. The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering is an interdisciplinary degree program that prepares graduates to design systems that enhance air and water quality, manage waste, and combat climate change. With an emphasis on renewable energy, pollution remediation, and sustainable urban development, this degree program equips students with the skills required for the top environmental engineering careers.For more information about Unity Environmental University, you can chat with Una or visit our environmental engineering page.
