Environmental engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on protecting the environment and improving the quality of life. It is a growing field in the UK, as the government is increasingly focusing on environmental issues and the need to reduce emissions and pollution. Environmental engineers work to develop and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as air and water pollution, waste management, and climate change. They use a variety of tools and techniques, such as engineering design, modelling, and data analysis, to develop and implement solutions.
SKILLS REQUIRED TO BE AN ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER:
- Technical Skills: For this role, you must have IT Skills and the ability to use Design and Data Management Software’s, such as SAS and CAD. You will also need to be proficient in Mathematics.
- Communication Skills: You will need to be able to collaborate in a team, and advise professionals on the best practices for environmental maintenance and protection. You will also need good report writing skills.
- Analytical Skills: You will need an exceptional attention to detail and ability to analyse scientific data.
- Project Management Skills: You must be well organised to meet deadlines and manage projects and reports. You will also need to monitor the progress of projects and flexibly resolve any issues that may arise.
- Problem Solving Skills: You will need to be innovative to creatively resolve pressing environmental issues.
- Legal Knowledge: You will need basic legal understanding in Engineering, to provide and maintain technical support that resolves Environmental issues whilst following regulations.
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER RESPONSIBILITIES:
Environmental Engineers use their Engineering, Biology and Chemistry expertise to resolve pressing Environmental issues. As an Environmental Engineer, you could work in the recycling industry, manage safer water systems, control pollution and develop new sustainable energy & resources. Environmental Engineers can be paid high salaries to positively impact Global Climate Change and many even save lives.
HOW TO BECOME AN ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER IN THE UK?
- Get Qualified
To become an Environmental Engineer, you will need a Bachelor’s degree. Here is a list of some of the Bachelor’s degrees which would qualify you for the role:
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Environmental or Climate Science
- Geology or Geoscience
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Renewable Energy and Resources
- Sustainability
You do not need to take Master’s or Doctoral (EngD) qualifications to work as an Environmental Engineer. However, these qualifications could boost your CV in the Engineering job market.
2. Get Experience
Get experience in the Environmental industry. This will help build your CV and will provide you with some rewarding learning experiences. The 3 best ways to get Environmental Engineering experience in the UK are by applying for volunteering opportunities, internships and graduate schemes in the industry. If you enjoy practical learning, you could even do an Apprenticeship. Make sure to be proactive in your search, and do not be afraid to directly approach organisations when seeking experience.
3. Get Licensed
You do not need chartership to become an Environmental Engineer. However, it may be useful to help you progress further in your career. Chartered Engineers are highly regarded and internationally sought after in the Sustainability industry. Depending on your industry experience, you could get chartered with the following associations:
- Engineering Chartership: https://www.ice.org.uk/
- Geoscience Chartership: https://www.geolsoc.org.uk/
- Environmentalist Chartership: https://socenv.org.uk/page/Registration
TOP 5 UK COMPANIES FOR CAREERS AND VOLUNTEERING IN ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING
Here is a list of the top 5 UK companies for careers and volunteering opportunities in Environmental Engineering, based on market research by WelpMagazine:
- ECMWF – Provides meteorological data and research to international government bodies and the community. ECMWF | Advancing global NWP through international collaboration.
- Carbon Footprint – Provides advice and services to assist companies in their Carbon footprint minimisation carbonfootprint.com – Home of Carbon Footprinting.
- Balfour Beatty – Constructs and develops infrastructure using sustainable practices Home – Balfour Beatty plc.
- Kent Eviro Power, FCC Environment – Provides sustainable waste and resource management Home – FCC Environment.
- Zero Waste Scotland – Advocates for waste reduction within businesses and government organisations Zero Waste Scotland.
ULTIMATE EARNING POTENTIAL FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN THE UKPosition in Career Associated Salary (UK) Trainee: A trainee Environmental Engineer will begin their role having previously earned a Bachelor’s degree. Some Environmental Engineers may also have a Master’s or Doctoral (EngD) degree. £26,993 Qualified: A qualified Environmental Engineer will have a Bachelor’s degree and sufficient experience in the Sustainable Engineering industry. £35,099 Experienced : Senior Environmental Engineers earn a higher salary, as they will have substantial engineering project management experience and may have Chartership. £43,459
HIGHEST SALARY CITIES FOR UK ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERS:
According to Indeed.com, the highest paying cities for Environmental Engineers in the UK are:
- London, Average Salary – £35,241.
- Bristol, Average Salary – £32,403.
- Stevenage, Average Salary – £31,930.
- Birmingham, Average Salary – £31,784.
- Northampton, Average Salary – £30,934.
LOOKING FOR MORE?
With our guidance, we hope that you find some brilliant Environmental Engineering opportunities for your career abroad. If you want to know more about Sustainable Careers or other study abroad opportunities, browse our website for more helpful advice. Why do you want a career in Environmental Engineering? Where would your dream location be? Let us know in the comments section below!
