What does an Environmental Engineer do?
An environmental engineer is responsible for using engineering techniques to create the most efficient processes. They are responsible for ensuring that the company is complying with environmental policies. A few of the main duties of an environmental engineer are helping obtain green certifications, analysis of procedures, field tests, and assisting in the performance of an audit. They also have to create reports about the company's environmental impact. Some of the jobs titles that an environmental engineer could grow into are director of engineering and engineering manager.
An environmental engineer should have 2 years of experience in engineering as well as a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering. One of the most important skills that an environmental engineer will have is critical thinking. Another skill is problem solving as the environmental engineer will need to be able to solve the company's issues with their processes.
- Diagnose issues with the company's processes
- Apply for permits
- Apply for federal and state grants
- Perform calculations and analysis
- Create environmental reports
- Report findings to higher ups
- Create new processes to increase efficiency
- Perform company audits
- 2 years of experience in engineering
- Great problem solving skills
- Knowledge of environmental regulations
- Ability to work out in the field
- Ability to work by yourself
- Great time management skills
- Ability to communicate with all levels of the organization
- Ability to handle multiple projects at once
- Ability to create presentations
How much does an Environmental Engineer make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$101,311
/ yrEnvironmental Engineer Career Path
Learn how to become an Environmental Engineer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Environmental Engineer Insights
KMEA“I had some great opportunities that launched my career and am super grateful for my time at KMEA.”
Prefeitura Municipal de Muzambinho“I faced problems carrying out actions in my department because political management prioritizes actions whose personal and political interests overlap.”
Koch Industries“Flexible schedule that allows you to work from home if you have an appointment instead of using a vacation day.”
Atelier Ten“Everyone is very nice and eager to do good work.”
NextEra Energy, Inc.“Job mobility is good at this company but you don't have a say in your career path from my experience.”
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute“Charges insane tuition and authority is terrible.”
PBF Energy“People are mostly nice and helpful.”
BorgWarner“I can able to learn based on my career and to move in a right way.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of an Environmental Engineer
When working as an Environmental Engineer, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Microsoft Office Suite, Hazwoper, Critical Thinking, Responses, and Written Communication.
- Environmental Specialist
- Environmental Scientist
- EHS Specialist
- Program Manager
The most common qualifications to become an Environmental Engineer include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.