How to Become an Environmental Engineer?
Explore the steps and requirements to kickstart a fulfilling career in environmental engineering
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Environmental Engineer
"An Environmental Engineer combines science and compassion to protect our natural resources and improve the quality of life for future generations." — Vandana Shiva
Environmental engineers are involved in the identification and development of solutions to solve environmental complications to protect the environment and to amplify the standard of living for human beings. The main priority of an environmental engineer is to assist in the development of projects directed at controlling pollution or collaborate with organizations to recycle waste products.
Steps to Become an Environmental Engineer:
Step-1
Concentrate on subjects such as chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics during high school. These subjects are fundamental in understanding environmental engineering principles.
Step-2
Enroll in a reputable undergraduate program in environmental engineering or a related field. This will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills needed for this career.
Step-3
Internships offer hands-on experience and exposure to real-world environmental challenges. They also contribute to the development of professional connections.
Step-4
A postgraduate degree can enhance your expertise and open up advanced career opportunities. Specialized programs in environmental engineering or related fields can be beneficial.
Step-5
The FE exam is the initial step to becoming a licensed professional engineer. It tests your knowledge of fundamental engineering concepts.
Step-6
Certifications like the Professional Engineer (PE) license or certifications from environmental bodies can boost your credentials and career prospects.
Step-7
The field of environmental engineering is constantly evolving. Engage in lifelong learning through workshops, seminars, and courses to stay abreast of new technologies and regulations.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate from a recognized institution (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.) |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or equivalent. |
| Undergraduate Degree | B.Tech or B.E. in Environmental Engineering or related disciplines such as Civil, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering. |
| Postgraduate Degree | M.Tech or M.E. in Environmental Engineering or a related specialization for advanced learning and career growth. |
| Entrance Exams | Valid score in entrance exams such as JEE-MAINS, CET, VITEEE, or equivalent; some colleges may have their own entrance exams. |
- Must have at least 50% in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC), though cut-off marks vary by college.
- Obtain a valid score in Entrance exams after 12th like JEE-MAINS, CET, VITEEE, or JEE-Advanced. Some colleges, like NMIMS and LPU, offer their own entrance exams.
- A B.Sc, B.Tech, or Diploma in a relevant field is required to become an Environmental Engineer.
- Pursuing an M.Tech in Environmental Engineering can be beneficial for advanced opportunities.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as an Environmental Engineer:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Environmental Engineers must possess a wide array of skills to succeed in their careers. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Understanding of ecosystems, pollution, and environmental impact. | Understanding of soil properties, contamination, and remediation. |
| Knowledge of chemical processes, waste management, and treatment methods. | Understanding of environmental regulations and standards at local, national, and international levels. |
| Study of water movement, distribution, and quality in the environment. | Techniques for promoting sustainable resource use and reducing environmental impact. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Technical Knowledge | Analytical Skills |
| Project Management | Knowledge of Regulations |
| Communication | Problem-Solving |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Environmental Engineer.
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job roles offered for an Environmental Engineer:
Once you achieve the qualifications for becoming an Environmental Engineer, a variety of career paths open up:
Focuses on inspecting organizations to control or eliminate health hazards, ensuring the welfare of employees and the environment.
Specializes in maintaining and improving air quality by managing pollution control systems in various settings like power plants and industries.
Works on designing and constructing eco-friendly buildings, collaborating with architects, engineers, and contractors to minimize pollution and promote renewable energy.
Manages hazardous chemicals, including enforcing regulations, conducting maintenance checks, and addressing biohazard issues.
Supports environmental scientists by conducting tests to investigate pollution sources and ensure environmental safety.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career Opportunities for an Environmental Engineer:
Environmental Engineers can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Coal India | National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) | Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) |
| AECOM Technology Corporation | Bechtel | Jacobs Engineering Group |
| HDR | CH2M | Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) |
| Bajaj Space Pvt. Ltd |
Colleges offering courses for Environmental Engineer:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur | Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore |
| Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad | School of Engineering and Technology, BML Munjal University, Gurgaon |
| Jagannath University, Jaipur | Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay |
| Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur | College of Agricultural technology, Theni |
| LD College of Engineering, Ahmedabad | Saveetha School of Engineering, Thandalam |
| United College of Engineering and Management, Allahabad |
End Note
Starting a career as an environmental engineer is not only a noble pursuit but also a vital one in today's world. With the right education, skills, and dedication, you can make a significant impact on our environment and society. Connect with our experts at SetMyCareer to guide you with Career counselling after graduation along your career goals and help you navigate the path to becoming a successful environmental engineer.
In this Career Outline
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