An Environmental and Sustainability Specialist (categorized as Environmental Scientists and Specialists) researches, analyzes, and develops solutions to environmental problems and resource conservation efforts. They focus on corporate sustainability, regulatory compliance, pollution control, and the implementation of environmentally friendly practices and policies.
Typical Education
A Bachelor's degree in environmental science, sustainability, engineering, or a related natural science field is the typical entry-level education.
Salary Range in the United States
The median annual wage for Environmental Scientists and Specialists was $80,060 in May 2024. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,130, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $134,830.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Environmental Scientists and Specialists.
Day in the Life
Hear insights from a Head of Sustainability on her typical day, projects, and the importance of green building certifications in her career.
How to Become an Environmental and Sustainability Specialist
- Earn a Bachelor's Degree: Complete a four-year degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Geology, or Sustainability Studies.
- Gain Practical Field Experience: Secure internships with government agencies (EPA, DNR), engineering firms, or corporate sustainability departments to gain hands-on experience with sampling and reporting.
- Master Regulatory Frameworks: Develop a strong working knowledge of major environmental regulations, such as the Clean Air Act (CAA), Clean Water Act (CWA), and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
- Pursue Certifications: Consider professional certifications like the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) or a specialty certification like the LEED Green Associate for building projects.
- Develop Data Analysis Skills: Become proficient in using GIS mapping software and statistical analysis tools to interpret environmental data and model impacts.
Essential Skills
- Regulatory Compliance: Expert knowledge of local, state, and federal environmental laws and the ability to ensure organizational policies and projects meet those requirements.
- Scientific Sampling and Analysis: Proficiency in conducting field work, collecting environmental samples (water, soil, air), and interpreting lab results using scientific principles.
- Data Modeling and GIS: Skill in using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze spatial data related to environmental impact and creating visual representations for reporting.
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): Ability to analyze the total environmental impact of a product or service across its entire existence, from raw material extraction to disposal.
- Stakeholder Communication: The capacity to clearly and persuasively communicate complex environmental findings and sustainability strategies to technical staff, management, and the public.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct Environmental Assessments: Perform site assessments (Phase I/II ESAs), monitor pollution levels (air, water, noise), and collect data to measure environmental compliance and impact.
- Manage Sustainability Initiatives: Develop and implement corporate sustainability plans focused on energy reduction, waste diversion, water conservation, and supply chain ethics.
- Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Prepare and submit necessary environmental permits and reports to regulatory bodies (e.g., EPA), and conduct internal audits to ensure compliance.
- Perform Policy Analysis: Research emerging environmental legislation and technical standards, advising organizations on how to adapt and capitalize on new sustainability opportunities.
- Educate and Train Staff: Lead training programs for employees on proper hazardous waste handling, sustainability goals, and environmental emergency procedures.
Five Common Interview Questions
- "Describe a time you had to enforce an unpopular environmental regulation or policy with internal stakeholders. How did you handle the resistance?" This assesses your communication, negotiation, and compliance enforcement skills.
- "Walk me through the steps you would take to complete a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) for a commercial property." This checks your procedural knowledge of standardized environmental due diligence.
- "What are the major components of a corporate Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory, and which scopes are often the most challenging to measure?" This tests your technical knowledge of sustainability reporting frameworks and emissions accounting.
- "Explain the concept of 'Net Zero' or 'Carbon Neutrality' and the most effective first step a large organization can take toward achieving it." This gauges your strategic thinking and familiarity with leading sustainability goals.
- "What is your experience using GIS software, and how have you used it to analyze or present an environmental concern?" This confirms your data analysis and visualization skills for environmental mapping.
Questions?
Ask in our Career Community!