Environmental Engineering Technicians

Career summary

#checked 3/5/19 lh

Technicians follow plans developed by environmental engineers. Sometimes they work in the field collecting soil, air and water samples. Other times they work in laboratories preparing samples. They conduct tests and keep detailed records of results and observations

Technicians often inspect facilities to make sure state and federal environmental laws are being followed.

Environmental engineering technicians may work with contractors to dispose of the toxic waste in a safe way. They inspect work sites, collect samples, and complete paperwork. They also set up special equipment and sometimes must decontaminate the equipment after it is used.

Some environmental engineering technicians help to locate polluted areas. They determine the type and source of the pollution. They may take photos to document their findings. Once they find the source of the pollution, technicians consult with engineers to decide how to clean it up. They help determine the right technology to clean up an area. Sometimes, they may assist an engineer in creating tools to clean up pollution.

Technicians operate, maintain, clean, and repair tools. If needed, they order supplies and lab equipment. They also prepare samples for shipping.

As environmental engineering technicians gain experience, they can assist on larger and more important projects. They can also oversee other technicians on large-scale projects.

Related careers

This career is part of the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Engineering Technicians
• Environmental Engineers
• Environmental Scientists
• Forestry Technicians
• Hazardous Material Workers
• Occupational Health and Safety Technicians
• Precision Agriculture Technicians
• Science Technicians
• Water Treatment Plant Operators

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to environmental engineering technicians.

• Perform lab work, including packaging samples, taking photos, and recording results and observations.
• Maintain records and program files for each project.
• Receive, set up, test, and decontaminate equipment.
• Assist in the cleanup of hazardous material spills. Arrange for the disposal of hazardous materials.
• Inspect facilities to make sure they comply with government regulations.
• Perform environmental quality work, both in the office or in the field.
• Evaluate things that go wrong when performing a standard process or test. Make necessary changes.
• Prepare permit applications.
• Provide technical support when planning projects, such as wastewater treatment plants.
• Produce reports, complete with charts, graphs, or sketches.
• Conduct pollution surveys, collecting samples from the air and ground water.
• Work to reduce toxic emissions.
• May oversee support staff.
• Develop work plans and work with vendors or suppliers when ordering materials and supplies.

Common work activities

Environmental engineering technicians perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Get information needed to do the job
• Document and record information
• Evaluate information against standards
• Use computers
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Analyze data or information
• Process information
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Communicate with people outside the organization

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, environmental engineering technicians:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a medium level of social interaction
• Have a medium level of responsibility for the health and safety of others.
• Often work as part of a team.
• Are somewhat responsible for the work done by other technicians.
• Talk to others in person, by telephone, and through e-mail. They occasionally write letters and memos.

Physical work conditions

• Work both indoors and outdoors, depending on the task.
• Often wear protective or safety attire, such as hard hats.
• Are sometimes exposed to contaminants.
• May work in indoor locations that are not temperature-controlled.
• May on occasion be exposed to loud or distracting sounds and noise levels.
• May travel to work sites in a car, truck, or van.
• Are occasionally exposed to hazardous equipment and conditions.
• May be exposed to hot or cold temperatures, depending on weather and location.
• Sometimes encounter hazardous situations.

Work performance

• Must be very exact and accurate when performing the job. Errors could seriously impact the safety of the public.
• Make decisions daily that affect other people.
• Must meet strict daily and weekly project deadlines.
• Work in a moderately competitive environment.
• Can make some decisions without talking to a supervisor.
• Repeat the same physical and mental tasks throughout the day.

Hours/travel

• May work overtime when trying to meet a deadline.
• May travel to construction sites.
• Work schedules are generally established.

Physical demands

Environmental engineering technicians frequently:

• Sit for long periods of time.

It is important for environmental engineering technicians to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for environmental engineering technicians to be able to:

• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• See objects in very low light.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Move arms and legs quickly.
• Determine from which direction a sound came.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.

Skills and abilities

Environmental engineering technicians need to:

Communicate

• Understand written information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Understand spoken information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Think of original, unusual, or creative ways to solve problems.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.

Use math and science

• Use scientific methods to solve problems.
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.
• Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.
• Use math skills to solve problems.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.
• Motivate, develop, and direct people as they work.

Work with people

• Use several methods to learn or teach new things.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.
• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.

Work with things

• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.

Perceive and visualize

• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technology
• Engineering Technology, General
• Environmental Engineering Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Computer Systems Technology
• Construction Engineering Technology
• Electromechanical Engineering Technology
• Energy Management and Systems Technology
• Environmental Engineering
• Geological and Geophysical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Solar Energy Technology
• Water and Wastewater Treatment Technology

Training

To work as an environmental engineering technician, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have an associate degree in environmental engineering technology or a related field.

Education after high school

You typically need an associate degree to become an environmental engineering technician. Many schools offer two-year programs in environmental engineering technology. As an undergraduate student you study chemistry, microbiology, and environmental science. Take technical, and oral and interpersonal communication courses to learn how to interpret technical materials and keep scientific report records. English courses are helpful for writing research and safety reports. Algebra and statistics courses can help you solve mathematical problems.

Many vocational schools offer engineering technology programs. However, the kind and quality of these programs varies greatly. Carefully select your program. Check with employers to see which schools they prefer. In addition, ask the schools for the names of employers where they have placed graduates. Make sure the school has the type of training you want, up-to-date equipment, and qualified instructors. In addition, make sure the school's program offers courses related to your engineering specialty.

Training programs approved by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) meet standards set by the industry. Graduating from an ABET accredited program can give you an advantage with employers.

Pre-engineering programs are not the same as technology programs. Pre-engineering programs stress classroom theory. In contrast, engineering technology programs stress hands-on training.

Work experience

Working in jobs that give you practical experience in environmental engineering technology is good background for this occupation.

Many engineering companies have their own testing labs. They often need extra help during the summer when construction activities are at a peak. Getting a summer job at an "in house" laboratory is a good way to gain experience and make contacts.

On-the-job training

As a new technician, you perform routine tasks while closely supervised by an experienced technician or engineer. As you gain experience, you work on tasks that are more difficult. Training may last up to a year.

Employers usually provide training for employees working with and around environmental contaminants. Many states require environmental workers to be certified. Certification courses usually take place during a 40-hour training week. You learn about chemical exposure risks and ways to prevent injuries. You may also receive first aid training.

Some environmental engineering technicians may also receive additional training in the use of special equipment.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum  may be different from your state's graduation requirements . Engineering technicians need a strong background in math and science. Try to take science through Physics and math through Trigonometry.

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Blueprint Reading
• Computer Applications
• Computer Science
• Drafting
• Electricity
• Electronics

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers look for environmental engineering technicians who have a two-year degree in environmental engineering technology. However, it is becoming more common for employers to require applicants with a bachelor's degree in this field. Employers usually require applicants to be certified.

Employers look for applicants who can assist with design and project planning work. Good communication skills are important because technicians work with engineers and other team members. An interest in math and science is critical.

Licensing/certification

Most states require environmental engineering technicians be registered as engineering interns or work under the supervision of a professional engineer. Some states also require environmental workers to have a hazardous worker certification. Requirements vary by state.

Wages

Pay varies with the worker's level of education, responsibility, and experience. Pay also varies by employer and area of the country. Those who have supervisory duties usually earn higher wages.

Full-time technicians generally receive benefits. Typical benefits are health insurance, a retirement plan, sick leave, and paid vacation. Some companies provide money for continuing education classes.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Engineering firms
• Federal, state, and local government agencies
• Environmental consulting firms
• Research and development companies

National outlook

The outlook for environmental engineering technicians is strong. More environmental engineering technicians will be needed to comply with environmental regulations and to develop methods of cleaning up existing hazards. There is funding to clean up contaminated sites. Demand is also increased due to concern about chemicals entering the water system during drilling for shale gas.

However, this is a very small occupation and very few new jobs will be created.

Other resources

Air and Waste Management Association 
Koppers Building
436 Seventh Avenue, Suite 2100
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
800.270.3444
412.232.3444

American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists 
147 Old Solomons Island Road, Suite 303
Annapolis, MD 21401
410.266.3311

American Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) 
(This website provides a list of engineering-related programs accredited by ABET)
415 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
410.347.7700

American Chemical Society 
1155 Sixteenth Street NW
Washington, DC 20036
800.227.5558

American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers 
1800 M Street, NW Suite 900 North
Washington, DC 20036
202.457.0480

American Society of Certified Engineering Technicians 
15621 West 87th Street, Parkway #205
Lenexa, KS 66219

American Water Works Association 
6666 West Quincy Avenue
Denver, CO 80235
800.926.7337
303.794.7711

Discover Engineering 

Engineer Girl! 
National Academy of Engineering

Environmental Career Center 
P.O. Box 3387
Hampton, Virginia 23663

Environmental Technology Council 
1112 - 16th Street, Suite 420
Washington, DC 20036
202.783.0870

National Academy of Engineering 
500 Fifth Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
202.334.3200

National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering 

Profiles in Ocean Careers 

Society for Ecological Restoration 
1133 15th St. NW, Suite 300
Washington, D.C. 20005

Society of Women Engineers 
130 East Randolph Street, Suite 3500
Chicago, IL 60601
877.793.4636

Technology Student Association 
1904 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191-1540
888.860.9010

United States Environmental Protection Agency 

Washington Business Week 
PO Box 1170
Renton, WA 98057
253.237.3545

Water Environment Federation 
601 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
800.666.0206

References

Career cluster

• Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Environmental Engineering Technicians (17-3025.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed. A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

DOT occupation

• Pollution-control Technician (029.261-014) 

Strong Interest Inventory

• Engineering Technician

Holland occupational cluster

• Realistic/Investigative/Conventional

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled