How to Become an Environmental Engineering Technician

A requirement to becoming an environmental engineering technician is on campus or online degree in engineering. Environmental engineering is among the several engineering specialties you can focus on in your education.

Consider a master’s degree in the field to boost your career possibilities.

What does an environmental engineering technician do?


Engineering, in general, applies the principles of mathematics and science to developing economically solid solutions to technical issues. They link scientific and math advances with commercial application to meet the needs of society and its consumers.

An environmental engineering technician applies his specialty to focus on how to effectively use biological and chemical principles to help solve environmental problems. They become involved in public health, waste disposal, water and air pollution and recycling.

The duties of an environmental engineering technician include conducting hazardous waste management research. They study the hazard’s significance, recommend a solution and establish guidelines to prevent any problems.

Another of the responsibilities of an environmental engineering technician might be to design municipal water supply and treatment systems for industrial wastewater.

When a construction project is proposed it’s the environmental engineer who researches the impact on the environment the project will have.

What kind of education does an environmental engineering technician need?


For all entry level engineering jobs, a bachelor’s degree is required. In fact, most engineering degrees are granted in civil, electrical and mechanical engineering. However, if an engineer is trained on one focus, he can cross specialties.

For example, a civil engineer who works with public projects, could easily practice environmental engineering and vice versa.

There are many distance learning and on campus engineering degree offerings. Make sure the school or university is accredited with the appropriate body.

How much does an environmental engineering technician earn?


Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest that median annual salaries for environmental engineering technicians are at around $74,020.

Where can an environmental engineer work?


More environmental engineering technicians are needed to assist companies in properly complying with environmental regulations and to develop techniques to clean up and prevent environmental hazards.

Many environmental engineers work as consultants, helping their clients comply with environmental laws and regulations.

academic infoCreated by: Mike Madin 1998 | Last updated: 05/16/2012