Environmental Engineering Technician Career Information

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What Do Environmental Engineering Technicians Do?

Environmental engineering degreeEnvironmental engineering technicians play an important role in combating environmental pollution. They implement the plans and designs developed by environmental engineers.  Environmental engineering technicians work in the field, setting up and operating equipment that prevents or cleans up pollution; and in the lab, recording observations and testing results.  If you like math and science, and want to play an integral part in keeping the environment clean, then a career as an environmental engineering technician could be for you.

How Might Environmental Engineering Technicians Prepare for Their Roles?

To prepare for a career as an environmental engineering technician, you should take as many high school science and math courses as possible.  People in this career usually have an associate’s degree in environmental engineering technology or engineering technology.  An associate’s degree program usually includes classes in math, chemistry, solid and hazardous waste, and environmental biology.  If you decide to pursue this career path, make sure your program is accredited by ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).

Many technicians also enter this career after earning a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences, like chemistry, biology, or environmental science.    

What’s the Average Salary and Job Outlook for this Career? 

The projected job growth rate for environmental engineering technicians is 18 percent from 2012 to 2020, which is faster than average for all occupations.  The annual median pay for environmental engineering technicians is $45,300.[1]

Which Online Degrees Might Support This Career Goal?

environmental engineering technicianWhile many environmental engineering technicians are hired with an associate degree, a bachelor degree in environmental science can help you become a well-rounded candidate. Also, continuing education certificates can help you gain more knowledge after you’ve obtained your degree.


[1] bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/environmental-engineering-technicians.htm | Photo Credit: energy.gov