Environmental engineers study issues related to water, waste, soil and air, while trying to solve problems related to pollution and other public health risks. This type of engineer has to analyze data in the office and then do some field work testing and evaluating various posts. You can become an environmental engineer if you have the right blend of good education, manual experience, and certifications.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Part One: Instruction Required
Step 1. Take a lot of math and natural science classes in high school
Opt for advanced classes at your school if there are any.
Step 2. Get your high school diploma
Step 3. Look for schools that have engineering programs
You don't have to find an engineering program, you just need to make sure the school offers environmental engineering courses and internships.
Step 4. Enroll in a program for a civil, mechanical or chemical engineering degree
A bachelor's degree in engineering is the minimum requirement for an environmental engineer.
Method 2 of 4: Part Two: Experience Required
Step 1. Find environmental engineering internships during summer breaks
If your school doesn't offer them, search the Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/oha/careers/internships, or engineerjobs.com.
Step 2. Apply for an engineering job in your second year of college
Many universities work with student-employees to provide them with experience as they study to graduate. You will need to have a minimum grade point average for them to accept you!
Step 3. Join a team of university researchers
If you can't find an internship or engineering job during a semester, apply to help with an environmental engineering research project. Experience in analyzing and testing data is highly valued by employers in this field.
Step 4. Apply for a basic position as an environmental engineer
You can't lead an engineering project without a license. However, the experience you will gain by assisting a licensed environmental engineer will help you earn your own license!
Step 5. Get 4 years of environmental engineering experience
It will normally take you this amount of time before giving you a professional environmental engineer license.
It may be that they recognize you from academic credits in combination with experience! So you may be able to replace academic grades with field experience
Method 3 of 4: Part Three: License / Certifications Required
Step 1. Go to the state site that manages environmental engineers
Apply for a professional environmental engineer license. It will cost you between 150 and 400 euros.
Step 2. Wait to receive your engineering exam
Set the exam.
- In 2014 the exams will be delivered by an automatic computer system. Exams will only be available 2 months out of 4.
- You will have to pay extra to take the exam.
Step 3. Set your practice exam once you have passed the theory
Exams are only given twice a year, in the spring and fall, so make sure you plan well, schedule the exam, and then do it!
Step 4. Think about applying for certification
After you become a professional environmental engineer, you can apply for a professional certification which will help you increase your network of contacts and improve your credentials when looking for more important engineering jobs.
Method 4 of 4: Part Four: Job Prospects
Step 1. Think about moving to where there are more jobs as an environmental engineer
In some parts it's easier to get hired, while in others you might earn more - get informed!
Step 2. Ask the companies you worked with during your internships or university jobs
Probably someone can vouch for your work ethic and experience and you will have a better chance of getting hired and having a competitive job.
Step 3. Apply to work with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Renew your application periodically if they don't get you the first time.
