Environmental Engineer Job Description

What does a Environmental Engineer do?

Environmental engineers develop solutions to environmental problems such as unsafe drinking water, public health and air, soil and water pollution. They research, plan, design and implement engineering solutions such as water treatment, site remediation and pollution control technology. Scope of work includes waste treatment, site remediation, pollution control technology, environmental compliance, flood risk and drainage management, water supply and sanitation, and more. Key competencies for this role include technical design, documentation, and project assessment.

Duties and Tasks: 

• Design systems, processes, or equipment to control, manage, and treat water, air, or soil quality 
• Gather data to use for assessment and environmental monitoring 
• Evaluate environmental impacts of projects 
• Advise procedures in cleaning up contaminated sites 
• Collaborate with environmental scientists, planners, hazardous waste technicians, engineers, lawyers, or other specialists to address environmental problems 
• Create or update plans, permits, or standard operating procedures 
• Develop site-specific health and safety protocols 
• Inspect facilities or programs to evaluate effectiveness and ensure compliance with environmental regulations 

Technical Skills: 

• Solid knowledge of engineering and technology principles 
• Good knowledge of scientific principles, particularly in biology and chemistry 
• Able to use scientific and laboratory equipment to collect air, sater, and soil samples 

Other Skills/Requirements: 

• Good knowledge of public safety and security 
• Critical thinking – using logic to identify problems and explore alternative solutions 
• Organizational, project management, planning skills 
• Good communication skills – written and verbal

Other Specializations/Sub Disciplines for a Civil Engineer:

• Civil Drafters
• Coastal Engineer 
• Environmental Engineer 
• Geotechnical Engineer 
• Material Engineer  
• Structural Engineer 
• Surveying Engineer (Surveyor)
• Transportation Engineer 
• Water Resource Engineer