A degree in Environmental Science is multidisciplinary, meaning you could work in many different areas including conservation, research, and policy-making. Potential employers are similarly diverse for example, you could end up working in the public sector, for an environmental NGO, or for a business.
Here are some career options made possible by starting with a degree in Environmental Science:
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability consultants are responsible for working on an organization’s sustainability initiatives, and goals. In this job you may work for a consultancy, or within an organization’s dedicated sustainability team, to lead the conversation on how to reduce a company’s environmental footprint. You’ll use the in-depth knowledge of environmental issues that you gained from your degree to advise your employer or client on how they can make their business more sustainable.
Climate Change Officer
You’ll use your knowledge of environmental issues and legislation to negotiate with stakeholders, and your data analysis expertise to support the delivery of climate projects. You’ll need an up-to-date understanding of policy – such as the Climate Change Act (2008) and decarburization targets to create clear and actionable goals, reports, and project plans.
Water Quality Advisor
As a Water Quality Advisor, you will most likely work for a government body (such as the Environment Agency), a water company, or a consultancy, to monitor water quality and report on pollution levels. This job combines technical work out in the field with compliance auditing, stakeholder management, and problem-solving. To be successful in this job, you’ll use your skills in project management, communication, and data analysis.
Environment Officer
The exact responsibilities of this job vary depending on the employer, but an Environment Officer’s main purpose is usually to ensure compliance with environmental legislation, within an organisation or government body. This can include monitoring the conditions of, for example, woodlands, waterways, or urban environments, and reporting on any environmental changes or impacts.
Data Analyst
In this job, you’ll use your technical skills to analyse and interpret data, and you’ll present visual representations of data to engage different audiences. Good communication skills are also a bonus in this field.
Energy Manager
To succeed in this job, you’ll need detailed knowledge of energy systems and project management. The job’s day-to-day duties can involve managing and delivering renewable energy projects, working with multi-disciplinary teams, shaping policies, and identifying new opportunities for energy efficiency.
