How to become an Environmental Engineer

Environmental engineering is an engineering discipline that is intricately associated with broad sciences such as biology, geology, ecology,  chemistry, hydraulics, microbiology and mathematics that aim to devise solutions for prevalent environmental problems. Environmental engineers are essentially concerned with designing equipment, systems and processes such as stack scrubbers and wastewater management systems that control pollution, protect the environment and public health. They also ensure that the waste is treated and disposed of correctly and in accordance with all the health and environmental regulations.

Furthermore, environmental engineers work as consultants, advising on the environmental implications of a project and conducting inspections to assure compliance. These dynamic professionals also address global issues such as climate change, sustainability, unsafe drinking water, etc. Environmental engineering jobs entail regular site visits, working under pressure, and extra hours irrespective of the weather or the time of the year due to the sensitive nature of the job. There is good environmental engineering scope in the future due to an increased focus and awareness about environmental degradation and the acute need to mitigate and, better yet, end it.

Environmental engineering jobs have multifaceted roles, but typically depend on the area of specialization. Generally, it comprises of the following tasks:

• Perform thorough analysis of scientific data and conduct quality-control checks
• Advise government and corporate agencies on environmental effects of construction projects, hazards or commercial operation
• Design and create plans to protect and restore the environment by removing contaminants from water, air and land 
• detect the presence of pollutants and track their sources
• Supervise the tasks of construction and remediation sites

Environmental engineering jobs require specific skills and inclinations and relevant educational backgrounds to excel in the field. Environmental engineering aspirants should generally have a passion for protecting the environment. They are expected to be excellent problem-solvers, have a keen eye for details, and have excellent communication skills. Environmental engineer jobs require a fair contribution of creativity, innovation and logical concepts, and thus, candidates must exhibit these traits to at least some extent. These specific attributes may not be mentioned in the environmental engineering job description, but employers certainly look for them in aspirants.

In order to enrol into a Bachelor’s program at an esteemed university, aspirants are expected to clear the JEE main and subsequently, the JEE Advance exam which makes the aspirant eligible to apply anywhere in India. It is a very difficult and challenging exam to crack that requires hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some states have their own entrance exams that are admissible in their respective universities. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests. 

Depending on the educational background, area of interest and specialization, and experience, aspirants may apply for the following environmental engineering jobs: 

• Chemical Engineers.
• Civil Engineers.
• Environmental Engineering Technicians.
• Environmental Scientists and Specialists.
• Hydrologists.
• Natural Sciences Managers.