Sometimes called "green collar" jobs, environmental careers tackle sustainable solutions to human consumption that are economically feasible, environmentally viable and socially desirable. Environmental careers are wide ranging in the types of work available and the skills required to do the jobs. These positions are expected to increase as more people become aware of the impact of their carbon footprint and take steps to lessen its effect on the planet.
Environmental Careers in Law
Lawyers who specialize in environmental causes work in the public, private and corporate sector to stop illegal practices that are hurting the planet and help set regulations to protect it in the future. They also need support services from paralegals, court reporters and legal secretaries, so you don't always need to have an advanced degree if you love the law and want to help in the conservation effort.
Environmental Careers in Science
Scientists trained in chemistry, biology and earth science are needed to analyze the impact of pollution and other ways the environment has been damaged in order to develop new methods to conserve. They also determine which sustainable practices help the environment the most and foresee future problems that could arise if certain environmental problems, such as global warming, persist.
Environmental Careers in Engineering
Environmental engineers are needed for a host of green applications. Some engineers evaluate landscape stability and design structures such as dams, bridges and roads that effectively serve their purpose while impacting the environment as little as possible. Others help design fuel cells for hybrid cars and new technologies to lower fuel consumption in standard models.
Envionmental Careers in Public Service
Urban and regional planners with a green eye for details and a bachelor's degree in urban planning or civil engineering help cities create spaces that address both the human population and the environment. Their input is crucial when governments put plans into place that revitalize parks and other green spaces, maximize land use and reduce negative human impact on the environment.
Environmental Careers in Business
Green projects such as land trusts and brownfield redevelopment efforts are increasing the need for business professionals. Land trusts conserve acres of land so they cannot be developed. People with skills in fundraising, taxes and executive directing work with these spaces to ensure they get the money and support they need. Brownfields are properties that have not been developed because they need to be cleaned up and often sit abandoned for years. Real estate professionals, community relations managers and financial investors redevelop these areas into parks, golf courses, parking lots and other usable areas.
Environmental Careers in Trade Professions
Not all environmental careers require a college degree. Green projects also have a large need for welders, machinists, electricians, mechanics, HVAC technicians, roofers and construction workers as well as other skilled laborers who might not have a bachelor's degree, but a lot of knowledge in a technical or trade area. The trick for finding green jobs in this sphere is to assess your abilities and seek out employers working on environmental endeavors. Look for companies that specialize in solar, wind and other alternative power development, green building, green transportation and fuel, and waste management.
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