Education and Training
Becoming an environmental consultant requires a combination of formal education and hands-on training. To start a career in the field of environmental consulting, it is best to start with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering or related field. After that, you can move on to specialized courses and internships that will expand and deepen your expertise.
This section will explore the educational and training requirements for a career in environmental consulting.
Research environmental consulting career paths
Researching the various roles and career options in the field of environmental consulting can help you decide whether becoming an environmental consultant is the right choice for you.
A day in the life of an environmental consultant may include visiting sites, collecting data, writing reports and providing recommendations to clients. Other activities could include creating project plans and timelines, conducting seminars and workshops, conversing internally with other members of a multi-disciplinary team or with external stakeholders such as local organizations and regulatory bodies.
Be sure to research educational and certifications requirements carefully. In general, those pursuing a career in environmental consulting must have a college degree (bachelor’s or master’s) in public health, environmental science or another related field. An internship is also beneficial. There are multiple certifications available such as Certified Environmental Professional (CEP), Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Registered Environmental Manager (REM) or Accredited Environmental Health Practitioner (AEHP).
Many organizations offer online resources available that provide helpful information about specializations within the broader field of environmental consulting like Human Health Risk Assessment, Air Quality Monitoring & Analysis or Industrial Assessment. There are also license requirements that may vary from state to state for certain types of specialty work such as engineering projects.
By researching these different aspects within the broad field of environmental consulting you can discover additional training opportunities suitable for your specific area of interest which can ensure that your professional credentials reflect your experience level and expertise as an environmental consultant.
Identify educational and training requirements
When considering a career as an environmental consultant, it’s important to research the necessary educational and training requirements. To become an environmental consultant, you will typically need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the area of science or engineering that is relevant to your chosen specialization. Examples include environmental science, biology, earth sciences, geology and chemistry.
Alternatively, some employers may accept a non-scientific bachelor’s degree as long as you have completed courses in the relevant sciences or engineering.
You may also need separate degrees or certifications related to certain specialties within your field such as hazardous materials handling or public health. You should ensure that any required degrees or certifications can be securely obtained regardless of which country you plan on operating in.
Additionally, participation in extracurricular activities like internships is beneficial for developing a comprehensive understanding of the job duties and gaining experience related to the field. Considerable work experience within the environmental sector is often required for roles with more responsibility such as management positions.
Consider relevant degrees and certifications
Before entering the field of environmental consulting, it is important to consider the types of degrees and certifications necessary to excel in this profession. Depending on the particular job, a graduate degree in either environmental science, engineering or law could be particularly useful.
Aside from academic degrees, environmental consultants may need additional certifications that show proficiency or specific experience in certain areas such as hazardous materials handling or pollution prevention management. Alternatively, some courses are available at various universities that satisfy licensing requirements for those wanting to become certified within their state.
Environmental consultants may find that having at least one specialized certification can open up many more job prospects and opportunities; however it is important to recognize that different states have different standards for their individual licensing procedures. In most cases, it is necessary to keep up with continuing education training in order to maintain certification status. Additionally, depending on the firm hiring you, they may require additional certifications relevant to their very specific field or area of work; so again be sure to check with them prior to applying for any position.
Professional Experience
Professional experience is essential for any aspiring environmental consultant. It is important to get hands-on experience before applying for positions in the environmental consultancy industry. Gaining experience through internships, volunteer work, and employment can help you gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as an environmental consultant.
In this section, we’ll take a look at the different paths to gaining the necessary experience to become an environmental consultant:
- Internships
- Volunteer work
- Employment
Gain experience in related fields
Before working as an environmental consultant, most employers require that applicants acquire certain skills and knowledge acquired through a combination of academic training and professional experience in fields related to the environment.
When seeking to build experience in related fields, consider options such as:
- Gaining experience in wastewater management within the energy sector.
- Becoming a Geographic Information Systems analyst to help research topographical or geographical information support programs.
- Working as researchers or project managers in engineering departments.
- Practicing law with natural resources or environmental clients.
- Managing a team of social scientists who are assigned to ecological projects.
Many positions related to the environment require additional certifications from assessment bodies such as the American Board of Environmental Engineering & Science (ABEES). ABEES provides multiple certifications for environmental science and management that may qualify an individual for environmental consulting positions.
Additionally, it’s important to check with local state licensing boards on specific requirements for becoming an environmental consultant as each region may have different standards and regulations when it comes to professional requirements for this title. Ultimately, familiarizing yourself with up-to-date regulations across multiple jurisdictions will provide a head start toward success when entering the field of professional environmental consulting.
Participate in internships and volunteer opportunities
Volunteering and interning with various organizations related to the field of environmental consulting will provide you with experience and allow you to expand your knowledge base. As an intern or volunteer, you might be given the opportunity to conduct research, assist environmental professionals on projects, attend workshops and participate in conservation programs. During volunteering experiences, periodically review what you’re learning for potential use as talking points on an upcoming job interview. If possible strive to collect letters of recommendation from supervisors at the organization or firm where you are serving as an intern or volunteer. The goal should be to land a paid position with the same organization following completion of studies.
You may also gain valuable experience through programs like AmeriCorps or Teach for America in exchange for a living stipend and other education benefits. These types of programs are often offered throughout cities, states and countries.
Through platforms like LinkedIn and EnvironmentalCareer.com potential employers post volunteer and internship opportunities relevant to the field of environmental consulting regularly—including positions with the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Applying thoroughly researched materials acquired through such experiences can help present skills sets applicable to areas related to environmental consulting such as:
- Regulatory permits
- Water quality conditions assessments
- Hazardous waste management services
- And more
Build a professional network
Building a professional network is essential to the success of any environmental consultant. It not only gives you credibility, but it can help you create more work opportunities and find potential clients. While a degree and experience will go along way towards securing your career in the field, having a good network of colleagues and employers can be just as beneficial.
To build your networking presence, it’s best to start off with active involvement in industry organizations such as American Council on Environmental Quality (ACEQ) or Society for Environmental Protection (SEP). These organizations offer many benefits, including conferences that allow you to meet with other industry professionals. Attending lectures is also an excellent way to increase your industry knowledge while networking with colleagues.
You should also consider:
- Joining local community groups that relate to environmental issues.
- Starting your own blog about these issues; this type of activity not only helps you gain recognition but could lead to speaking engagements at various events or even media interviews.
- Using social media outlets such as LinkedIn and Twitter are invaluable tools for connecting with potential clients and developing relationships with them over time.
Whether working on projects alone or as part of a team, being part of an online community can often lead to greater knowledge sharing and increased collaboration between fellow professionals. This can help eliminate misunderstandings during negotiations, improve client satisfaction and generally produce better results for all parties involved.
Licensing and Certification
Becoming an environmental consultant requires both licensing and certification. As part of the licensing process, most states will require applicants to pass a certification exam. Additionally, some states may require applicants to complete a specialized training course as part of the licensing requirement.
Certification exams may cover a variety of topics related to environmental consulting, such as environmental law and policies, and environmental management. Let’s explore the different types of licensing and certification requirements in more detail:
Research local licensing requirements
Researching the necessary licensing and certification requirements is an important step in the process of becoming an environmental consultant. These regulations may vary from one locale to another, and sometimes from state to state in the US. It’s important to learn what regulations are applicable to you and make sure they are correctly followed when you begin your business.
Before doing any work as an environmental consultant, you should contact local government agencies such as your County Environmental Services or Health Departments in order to obtain proper licensing and operational permits. Additionally, it’s important that any potential business partners understand these regulations ahead of time so they can plan accordingly.
Depending on your area, certification may depend on possession of certain educational credentials or completion of a training program specifically tailored for professional environmental consultants. In addition to gaining the necessary professional knowledge, many certifications require members to comply with industry ethics codes and abide by pertinent federal or local regulations. Oftentimes these licenses may need regular renewal based on continuing education credit points or recertification. Research any other environmental consulting-specific licenses that could apply in your situation before taking on a particular job as an independent consultant.
Obtain necessary certifications
A successful environmental consultant needs to understand multiple areas of work, from hazard analysis and assessment to compliance with federal laws as well as state and local regulations. In order to qualify for employment, licensing or certification may be required for certain types of roles. Consulting firms may also require a designated level of education or experience.
Typically, the certifications required include:
- Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM): Obtain this certification through the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). The CHMM must complete 30 hours of professional development every two years in order to stay current in the field.
- Registered Environmental Assessor (REA): REAs provide expertise needed to assess sites with hazardous material contamination and develop solutions that comply with local, state and federal regulations. This certification is administered through a third party such as TRC Environmental Corporation or E2C2 Program, LLC.
- Certified Professional Environmental Auditor (CPEA): This title is offered by the Institute for Professional & Executive Development and allows consultants to provide services related to conducting environmental audits per EPA regulations 40 CFR Parts 63 & 64. They must maintain their status every three years by taking continuing education credits.
- Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner: Offered by the Society for Ecological Restoration Education Program is a certification recommended for those consultants who wish to work as ecological restorationists on coastlines, wetland wetlands, clean water streams and other biologically diverse habitats that may require restoration activities due to damages caused by pollution or contamination.
- Safety Management Certificate: Working with hazardous material can be extremely hazardous thus some consulting firms will require safety training such as the Safety Management Certificate program offered by the American Red Cross or Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s 10-hour course on industrial safety standards.
Maintain continuing education
In order to maintain your certification or license as an environmental consultant, continuing education is needed. Depending on the level of your certification, you may need to obtain a certain number of professional education credits on an annual basis. Avoid any additional fees by staying current with your educational requirements and ensuring you renew your license or certification in a timely manner.
You can acquire continuing education credits through self-study courses, post-secondary venues, workshops and seminars held by environmental organizations and universities, as well as various conferences and conventions. Keeping up-to-date with any changes in the industry such as technology advancements is essential for success in this profession. It’s also important to stay current with relevant laws and regulations that may be applicable to you and the work you do so that your assessments and recommendations are reliable and accurate.
Business Development
Business development is an integral part of becoming an environmental consultant. As a consultant, it is your responsibility to create relationships with potential and existing clients and build your own network. In order to do this, it is important to understand how to:
- Market yourself
- Create a network
- Develop relationships
We will look at how to do all of these things in this section.
Develop a business plan
Developing a business plan is an important step when initiating any new business venture. An environmental consultant should have a clear focus and long-term goal when they start their business. A business plan will provide focus, help to prioritize tasks and activities, as well as provide realistic expectations for success or failure.
When creating a business plan, there are four main points to consider:
- Product or Service: Identify the range of services you will offer as an environmental consultant. What are your primary areas of expertise? Will it include services for businesses, government agencies, individuals or research facilities?
- Target Market: Identify who needs your services and how you can best reach them. Who is the most lucrative target market? Who are your potential customers?
- Competition Analysis: Identify what other companies do the same kind of work you do. Where do they have an advantage over you? What sets you apart from them and why should someone choose you over them?
- Financial Forecasting: Estimate start-up expenditures, project future revenue growth, set goals for profitability and plan for worst-case scenarios such as recessions or downturns in business cycles.
Creating a comprehensive business plan will not only give focus to establishing yourself as an environmental consultant but also prepare you for future growth and development in your field.
Establish a legal business entity
Before you start your environmental consulting business, establish a legal entity such as a limited liability company (LLC). An LLC gives you the protection to keep your personal and professional assets separate from your business’s liabilities. Depending on the state in which you reside and plan to work, there may be certain registration documents that need to be completed in order for your LLC to be legitimate. Consult with a legal professional before setting up an LLC for information about registration/license requirements in the state where you’ll conduct business and ensure that other administrative procedures are taken care of correctly.
Additionally, obtain any insurance coverage needed and set up a bank account dedicated solely to business transactions.
Secure necessary funding
In order to become a successful environmental consultant, it is important to secure the necessary funds for operating the business. This will involve budgeting for start-up costs, salaries and/or fees, office equipment and supplies, advertising expenses and legal fees. Consulting projects can be expensive and require considerable resources to complete.
Consultants should also develop relationships with potential investors and funding sources to help support their consulting business. These could include:
- Government grants
- Venture capital investments
- Small business loans
- Even private investment from family or friends.
It is essential that consultants build a reliable network of trusted advisors with experience in the areas of finance and accounting in order to operate a successful consulting business.
Professional Resources
Becoming an environmental consultant requires a variety of professional skills and resources. Whether you’re just starting out or already in the industry, accessing resources and knowledge-sharing can help you stay abreast of the latest developments and ensure that you’re providing accurate advice to your clients.
Let’s explore the various professional resources available if you’re looking to pursue a career as an environmental consultant:
Join professional organizations
Joining a professional environmental organization is a great way to stay current on the trends and advancements in this field. The major organizations include:
- American Institute of Biological Sciences
- Association of Environmental Professionals
- Association of State Wetland Managers
- Environmental Information Association
- Water Environment Federation
Joining one (or several) of these associations provides you with access to informational sessions, industry magazines and conference materials that can help advance your career. Additionally, some environmental consulting firms will offer promotions and discounts to members of these organizations upon hiring.
Take advantage of online resources
Becoming an environmental consultant requires more than just formal training, although an academic degree in environmental science, public health or a related field is essential for any aspiring consultant. Taking advantage of online resources is essential for gaining information related to the profession.
The primary source of information that environmental consultants and other professionals have been turning to in recent years is online resources. These provide a wealth of information and support, from industry publication websites, blogs, and newsletters to discussion forums and social media groups. Joining and participating in these networks can give you a valuable platform to share your experiences with other individuals who are passionate about handling different types of environmental consulting tasks.
By taking advantage of the constantly updated data offered by
- e-books
- publications
- webinars
- podcasts
- various magazines and newsletters
and the various forums devoted to climate change-related issues or waste management methods available on different professional networks such as Linkedin or Facebook, you can stay up-to-date on the latest developments in this area so that you can perform your job with confidence.
Utilize industry-specific software
In order to become a successful environmental consultant, you must be well-versed in the software and tools used in your field. Utilizing industry-specific software is an important way of connecting with other professionals, staying up-to-date on societal trends and regulations, and identifying potential resources for clients.
Due to the complex nature of environmental consulting, specific reporting requirements must be completed for certain projects. By having access to industry expertise and programming teams who can develop tailored software solutions for data processes and operations management, one can streamline their operations with accuracy and precision.
When considering which software programs or programs are most appropriate for your practice or business venture as an environmental consultant, take into account any existing infrastructure needs that are present within the scope of your job while keeping up with the latest industry trends. Additionally, research which type of framework might best facilitate key data insights that may lead to more comprehensive project analysis – such as GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping technology – and query tools that are able to pull information from various databases quickly and accurately. Lastly, having a suite of reporting tools at hand will ensure that every document generated is simple yet informative enough for clients while being legally compliant with all applicable laws.