Environmental engineers study issues related to water, waste, soil, and air, and seek to solve problems related to pollution and other public health risks. This job requires you to do analysis in the office, and conduct site testing and evaluation in the field. You can become an environmental engineer with the right education, certification, and experience.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Educational Requirements
Step 1. Take as many math and science classes as you can while in high school
If your school offers advanced classes, take them.
Step 2. Graduate from high school
Step 3. Find a campus with an engineering study program
You don't need to be enrolled in an environmental engineering program, but you should make sure that the campus you attend offers classes and internships related to environmental engineering.
Step 4. Get a bachelor's degree in civil, mechanical, or chemical engineering
To become an environmental engineer, you must have a bachelor's degree in engineering.
Method 2 of 4: Experience Requirements
Step 1. Find internship opportunities in environmental engineering during the long holidays
If your college doesn't provide such internship opportunities, try looking at the Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/oha/careers/internships, or engineerjobs.com.
Step 2. Submit an application for a related job in the second year of college
Many campuses work with companies to offer students work experience while students complete their studies. In most of these programs, you must have a GPA above 2.7.
Step 3. Join the university research team
If you can't find an internship or part-time job opportunity, apply to join a research project related to environmental engineering. Data analysis and testing experience is highly valued in your future workplace.
Step 4. Work in a novice position in environmental engineering
In most states, you cannot lead a technical project without a license. However, your experience helping a licensed environmental engineer will help you get a license.
Step 5. Gain 4 years of environmental engineering experience
Most states require you to have 4 years of experience before issuing you a license.
Some states give "credits" a combination of education and experience. These credits vary by state, but can help you replace your master's degree requirements with work experience
Method 3 of 4: License/Certification Terms
Step 1. Go to the website of the Secretary of State Office of Professions for your state and fill out the form to obtain an environmental engineer license
You have to pay $200-$500 to register a license.
Step 2. Wait until you receive exam approval, then schedule your engineering fundamentals exam
All exams will be administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
- In 2014, the exam was conducted using a computer-based system. In each quarter, exams are only available in two months.
- Other exam fees may be charged to you.
Step 3. Schedule a practical exam after you pass the written exam
In most states, practice exams are held only twice a year, in the spring and fall. Therefore, make sure you plan to take the exam well in advance.
Step 4. Consider getting a certificate
Once you become a professional engineer, you can apply to the National Society of Professional Engineers or the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists. Professional certifications will help you grow your network and enhance your credentials as you seek employment as a senior engineer.
Method 4 of 4: Job Prospects
Step 1. Consider moving to a state that employs a large number of environmental engineers
Massachusetts employs the most environmental engineers, while environmental engineers in New Mexico and Alaska earn the highest salaries.
Step 2. Contact the company for which you are interning or part-time
Employees of the company can vouch for your work ethic and quality, and you can get a job more easily.
Step 3. Apply to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
If you didn't get a job the first time you applied, try applying periodically.
Step 4. Search for jobs on specialized sites, such as Engineerjobs.com and the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists, aaees.org,
