To curb the damage to the environment and ensuring its conservation, there are many new jobs created in this field. An environmental consulting career is very lucrative. There are many companies that seek to have a permanent staff to handle this task for them.
Environmental technicians are given the responsibility to investigate, evaluate and also monitor the growing amount of pollution and environmental hazards. Their duty is to protect all internal and external resources and ensure their conformity with environmental safety laws. Collecting samples of gas, soil, water and other pollutants is also done by them. The samples are then tested for quality and emissions standards. Methods are then suggested for upgrading them as per environmental safety regulations.
The technicians can also suggest methods of improvising procedures through analysis and research. These technicians have to consider physical, biological and chemical impact of the elements found during testing. They must use sophisticated equipment for collection of samples and to analyze the samples. Once the data has been analyzed, then reports are created to show their harmful impacts. Alternative sources need to be located and suggested for reducing the impact of negative environmental components. Other job responsibilities of the technicians include collection of materials samples, airflow measurements, operating and testing equipment, evaluating of pollution sources and also keeping track of information collection from research and analysis.
This is also a physically challenging job, therefore you must be prepared to work many hours, work in unhygienic conditions related to sample collection and do a detailed analysis to compile your reports.
To be a successful environmental technician you should have the ability and interest in handling mechanical gear. You should be quick with problem solving to ensure successful implementation of alternative measures. A technician must have the ability to communicate effectively and convey your ideas in a convincing manner. Extensive knowledge about environmental regulations and related laws is essential. Manual dexterity and eye hand coordination is essential to handle sophisticated gear.
You should have a Bachelor's degree in environmental technology or an equivalent three-year community college program in the same field. Water waste management requires a 3 year community diploma in civil engineering technology. Master's degrees are also available in specialist fields like air pollution, water waste management, etc.
The average salary for an environmental technician is approximately $44,000. Internships are available in relevant fields, to help you gain experience in environmental technology. The growing demand for technicians is on the rise with environmental rules and regulations becoming stricter.
