What are the job prospects for environmental science and technology?

Career Coaching
#1

Environmental Science is a very broad area that encompasses several sub-areas such as Waste Management, Climate Science, Disaster Management, Deforestation, Conservation, Pollution monitoring etc
Depending on your area of interest, you can choose a relevant sub-area. You will be applying concepts of Physics, Chemistry and Engineering to solve many of the environmental challenges. Pollution monitoring involves designing and building sensors to monitor air and water quality.

Many professionals also apply GIS/Remote Sensing to analyze satellite images of our planet to identify deforestation, soil erosion and impact of disasters such as floods and earthquakes.

Climate Science is another multi-disciplinary science that involves building mathematical and statistical models to predict weather.

These are all fascinating areas for science students.
Some environmental science degree courses have a placement year option. This provides the opportunity to gain practical industry experience, increase your skills and develop a network of contacts. There may also be options to undertake shorter placements and field trips during your course. You could also apply for summer internships, which are usually available with larger organisations and companies.

Many environmental organisations and charities need help from people willing to carry out voluntary work. After gaining some initial experience, you may be able to progress into more specialist paid employment. It’s also a good idea to get involved in relevant clubs and societies while you’re still at university, take up volunteering roles with conservation organisations, or become active in campaigning groups in your local area.
Opportunities for environmental science graduates can be found in the environmental science and wider biology sectors. Typical employers include:

  • local authorities
  • environmental protection agencies such as the Environment Agency (EA) and Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)
  • UK government departments, such as the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
  • environmental monitoring organisations
  • environmental consultancies
  • nature conservation organisations
  • charitable trusts, such as Natural England and Scottish Natural Heritage.

There are also opportunities available in the utilities sector with water companies and waste management companies, in planning and surveying, the media, and in environmental education and research.