Employers

Approximately 41,300 environmental engineers are employed in the United States. Environmental engineers most often work for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state environmental protection agencies, in private industry, or at engineering consulting firms.

Starting Out

The traditional method of entering this field is by obtaining a bachelors degree and applying directly to companies, the EPA, or other governmental agencies. College career services offices can assist you in these efforts. Environmental engineers may also get their start by searching for job listings on professional associations Web sites as well as through sites such as LinkedIn and employment agencies.

After environmental engineers have gained work experience, there are several routes for advancement. Those working for the EPA can become department supervisors or switch to private industry or consulting. In-house environmental staff members may rise to supervisory positions. Engineers with consulting firms may become project managers or specialists in certain areas.

Environmental careers are evolving at a breakneck speed. New specialties are emerging all the time. Advancement may take the form of getting involved at the beginning stages of a new subspecialty that suits an engineers particular interests, experience, and expertise.

Read publications such as Environmental Engineer & Scientist (https://www.aaees.org/environmentalengineerandscientist) to learn more about trends in the industry and potential employers.

Visit the career section of professional associations Web sites to search for job listings, such as the American Academy of Environmental Engineers & Scientists (https://aaees.mcjobboard.net/jobs). Also search job postings on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/environmental-engineer-jobs).

Attend industry conferences to network and interview for jobs.

Become certified in order to show employers that you have met the highest standards established by your industry.