Career Pathways into the Green Economy
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Environmental Justice
Addressing social injustices with environmental action
Environmental Justice is the fair treatment of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, in relation to environmental laws, policies, and regulations. It seeks to address disproportionate environmental burdens faced by marginalized communities, particularly those exposed to pollution, climate change, and lack of access to resources like clean air and water. Environmental Justice professionals work to identify and solve environmental and social issues, advocate for underserved communities, and help enforce regulations. Careers in this field range from grassroots organizers to policy analysts and environmental protection specialists, aiming to promote equity and sustainability through legal, social, and environmental reforms.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Grassroots Organizer
- Litigation Assistant
- Policy and Legislative Assistant
- Community Outreach Coordinator
Professional (Bachelor’s degree):
- Research and Policy Analyst
- Environmental Justice Advocate
- Environmental Protection Specialist
- Campaign Manager
- Community Based Planner
- Communications Strategist
Management (Master’s or Doctorate):
- Professor
- Attorney
- Recruitment Coordinator
- Senior Researcher
- Policy Developer
- Director of Environmental Justice
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Environmental Education
Informing, inspiring, influencing, and motivating
Environmental Education (EE) helps individuals and communities learn about environmental issues and solutions. It empowers people to address local and global environmental challenges, promoting sustainability and civic engagement. Environmental educators teach various audiences, from students to businesses, using hands-on activities, research, and curriculum development. They raise awareness about issues like climate change, habitat protection, and health connections to the environment. EE professionals work in schools, universities, businesses, and communities, facilitating programs that encourage environmental stewardship. Careers in EE range from naturalists and educators to researchers and program managers, with opportunities to influence policy and inspire positive environmental action.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- GIS Technician
- Range Technician
- Soil Conservation Technician
- Agricultural Technician
- Survey Aid
- Biological Technician
Professional (Bachelor or Master’s degree):
- Archeologist
- Cartographer
- Economist
- Forester
- Wildlife Biologist
- Environmental Lawyer
- Land Use Planner
- Environmental Policy Specialist
- GIS Specialist
- Law Enforcement Ranger
- Restoration Ecologist
Management (Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D.):
- Open Space Director
- Park Manager
- Professor
- Public Lands Director
- Refuge Manager
- Resource Manager
- Fish and Wildlife Biologist
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Forestry and Horticulture
Managing and improving forests across the world
Forestry and Horticulture focus on the propagation, planting, and care of plants to improve natural and man-made landscapes. Forestry combines physical, biological, and engineering sciences to manage forests, wildlife, and ecosystems in rural and urban settings. Horticulture applies science and art to growing food, landscaping, and restoring habitats. Professionals in these fields manage forests, diagnose plant diseases, and collaborate on conservation efforts. Forestry and Horticulture overlap, offering diverse careers pathways into environmental restoration, resource management, and landscape design.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Agronomist
- Dietitian
- Farm or Forest-Based Educator
- Farm Equipment Sales
- Farmer
- Fire Program Assistant
- Forestry Aide
- Forestry Technician
- Gardener
- Greenhouse/Nursery Manager
- Golf Course or Stadium Groundskeeper
- Health Inspector
- Soil Conservation Technician
- Stormwater Management Technician
Professional (Bachelor or Master’s degree):
- Agricultural Engineer
- Arborist
- Botanist
- Cooperative Extension Agent
- Entomologist
- Fire Communications Specialist
- Forest Fire Management Officer
- Forest Products Scientist
- Forester
- Urban Forester
- Soil Scientist
- Wood Scientist
- Integrated Pest Management Scout
- Horticulturist
- Community Garden Manager
- Nursery Manager
- Landscape Architect
- Agricultural Science Teacher
- Turf Specialist
- Soil Scientist
- Plant Scientist
- Journalist
- Wildlife Biologist.
Management (Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D):
- Forest Economist
- Forest Manager
- Forest Policy Analyst
- Forest Supervisor
- GIS Specialist
- Natural Resource & Environmental Systems Manager
- Public Garden Manager
- Public Lands Manager
- Professor
- Restoration and Remediation Manager
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Geosciences
Collecting and interpreting data about the Earth
Geoscience study the Earth's physical environment. Comprised of disciplines like geology, hydrology, meteorology, and oceanography, geoscience professionals use data to understand the earth’s formation, resources, and ongoing changes. Professionals in this field assess natural resources, measure environmental impacts, and predict future conditions using scientific models. This work has many applications, ranging from resource management to climate change analysis. Careers include roles such as geologists, hydrologists, marine scientists, and environmental engineers. With opportunities for specialization in conservation and other subfields, geoscience offers diverse career paths that contribute to understanding both Earth’s sustainability and the broader universe.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Geotechnician
- Soil Conservation Technician
- Land surveying
- CAD technician
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Atmospheric Scientist
- Civil Engineer
- Economic Geologist
- Environmental Engineer
- Environmental Geologist
- Geochemist
- Geologist
- Geomorphologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Hydrologist
- Marine Geologist
- Meteorologist
- Mining Geologist
- Oceanographer
- Petroleum Engineer
- Physical Scientist
- Sedimentologist
- Research Geophysicist
- Soil Scientist
- Geographic Information Science Analysis
- Urban Planner
- Professional Land Surveyor
- Mine Planning Engineer,
Management (Master’s degree or Ph.D.):
- Professor
- Supervisory Geologist
- Program Director
- Project Manager
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Land Management
Determining how to best manage public lands
Land Management is a field focused on using knowledge of the environment, biological resources, and human influences to manage public lands for various purposes. Professionals in this field work with other natural resource experts, planners, and communities to determine the best use of land for recreation, conservation, resource extraction, and more. Land managers apply critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to create long-term management plans. Careers in Land Management include roles such as GIS technician, wildlife biologist, land use planner, environmental policy specialist, and park manager. This field offers diverse opportunities to help shape land use for future generations.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- GIS Technician
- Range Technician
- Soil Conservation Technician
- Agricultural Technician
- Survey Aid
- Biological Technician
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Archeologist
- Cartographer
- Economist
- Forester
- Wildlife Biologist
- Environmental Lawyer
- Land Use Planner
- Environmental Policy Specialist
- GIS Specialist
- Law Enforcement Ranger
- Restoration Ecologist
Management (Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D.):
- Open Space Director
- Park Manager
- Professor
- Public Lands Director
- Refuge Manager
- Resource Manager
- Fish and Wildlife Biologist
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Parks and Recreation
Furthering enjoyment, education, health, and well-being
Parks and Recreation professionals focus on managing natural resources for public enjoyment, education, and well-being. Combining environmental knowledge with social sciences, business, and economics, they plan and oversee recreation facilities, programs, and services. Professionals in this field work in national, state, and local parks, resorts, and community centers. They work as park managers, rangers, landscape architects, and outdoor recreation planners. This field offers diverse career paths, including positions in management, education, and sustainability.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Camp Counselor
- Field Crew
- Guest Services
- Park Maintenance
- Environmental Technician
- Parks Technician
- Playground Safety Inspector
- Tour Guide
- Seasonal Ranger
- Seasonal Naturalist
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Adventure Guide
- Community Organizer
- Environmental Educator
- Field Instructor
- Landscape Architect
- Naturalist
- Outdoor Recreation Planner
- Park Ranger
- Interpretation
- Parks Planner
- Program Coordinator
- Summer Camp Director
- Visitor Studies Coordinator
- Volunteer Coordinator
- Park Naturalist
Management (Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D.):
- Director of Activities
- Director of Education
- Director of Parks
- District Manager
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Water Management
Making decisions about water quality and quantity
Water management involves using science, technology, engineering, and law to manage water resources efficiently. Water management professionals address water quality and quantity issues surrounding drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, agriculture, and hydroelectricity. Professionals ensure the sustainable use of water resources while minimizing environmental damage. They work across multiple economic sectors, managing everything from water treatment and wetland conservation to stormwater compliance. Given water’s role in environmental systems and its growing demand, water management professionals need expertise in the sciences, problem-solving, communication, and the ability to collaborate with other stakeholders to address complex environmental issues.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Aquatic Biologist
- Aquatic Restoration Technician
- Aquatic Toxicologist
- Environmental Sampling/Monitoring Technician
- Hydrology Technician
- Lab Analysis Technician
- Wastewater Technician
- Water Treatment Operator
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Hydrogeologist
- Hydrologist Local or State Water Planner
- Stormwater Technician
- Surface Water Monitoring Technician
- Water Law Expert
- Water Treatment Expert
- Watershed Planner
- Stormwater Compliance Inspector
- Water Conservation Specialist,
Management (Master’s degree or PhD):
- Plant Superintendent
- Environmental engineers
- Irrigation and Water Resources Engineer
- Watershed Scientist
- Hydrologist
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Wildlife and Fisheries Management
Monitoring, sustaining, & restoring wildlife populations
The field of Wildlife and Fisheries focuses on conserving, managing, and restoring fish and wildlife populations. Professionals in this field conduct research, monitor habitats, develop restoration plans, and enforce wildlife laws. Key tasks include studying animal behaviors, habitats, and populations, as well as implementing management practices in the fields of conservation and resource management. Much of fish and wildlife management is actually people management. An effective professional often has education in economics, political science and law, psychology, sociology and history. Skillful communication, written and oral, is one of the most important tools a fish and wildlife professional uses. This work combines science with community engagement for sustainable environmental stewardship.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Biological Science Technician
- Fisheries Technician
- Wildlife Technician
- Wildlife Removal Technician
- Environmental Educator
- Vet tech
- Survey Crew Leader
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Animal Research Scientist
- Biological Scientist
- Ecologist
- Entomologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Fisheries Biologist
- Habitat Conservation Specialist
- Mammalogist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Game Warden
- Conservation officer
- Fisheries policy analyst
- Extension Agent
- Restoration Manager
- Habitat Restoration Ecologist
Management (Master’s degree or PhD):
- District Wildlife Manager
- Fish Hatchery Manager
- Professor
- Supervisory Biologist
- Wildlife Refuge Manager
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Sustainable Agriculture
Farming that nurtures nature and communities
Sustainable Agriculture focuses on farming practices that prioritize environmental health, economic viability, and social equity. Professionals in this field combine knowledge of biology, economics, and environmental science to create farming systems that conserve resources, promote biodiversity, and support communities. They work on managing and improving farming practices, advocating for policies, and ensuring food systems are resilient to climate change. Careers in sustainable agriculture span from on-the-ground farm management to policy analysis, with roles such as farm managers, agricultural consultants, and environmental specialists. With opportunities for specialization in areas like organic farming, food systems, and conservation, this field offers diverse, impactful career paths.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Agriculture Technician
- Soil Health Technician
- Organic Farming Technician
- Farm Sustainability Coordinator
- Agricultural Equipment Specialist
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Sustainable Agriculture Consultant
- Agri-Tech Engineer
- Sustainable Farm Manager
- Organic Certification Specialist
- Climate-Smart Agriculture Specialist
Management (Master’s degree or PhD):
- Director of Sustainable Agriculture Programs
- VP of Agricultural Sustainability
- Head of Agribusiness Sustainability
- Senior Manager of Eco-Friendly Farming Initiatives
- Global Sustainability Director for Agriculture
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Renewable Energy and Green Technology
Powering the future with clean energy
Renewable energy focuses on producing energy from natural, replenishable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal. It aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, combat climate change, and create sustainable energy systems. Professionals in this field design, implement, and optimize energy systems, using their expertise in engineering, science, and policy to develop innovative solutions. Their work includes researching new technologies, improving system efficiency, and advocating for supportive energy policies. Renewable energy careers range from technicians installing and maintaining systems to engineers designing new technologies, with opportunities in policy analysis, energy management, and sustainability leadership. Contribute to a clean energy future!
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Solar Panel Installer
- Wind Turbine Technician
- Electrical Systems Installer for Renewables
- Renewable Energy Technician
- Geothermal Heating and Cooling Technician
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Renewable Energy Systems Engineer
- Solar Energy Project Manager
- Wind Farm Operations Engineer
- Energy Storage Analyst
- Green Tech Product Manager
Management (Master’s degree or PhD):
- Director of Renewable Energy Development
- VP of Clean Energy Innovation
- Head of Wind and Solar Projects
- Senior Manager of Energy Infrastructure
- Director of Smart Grid Solutions
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Green Business and Corporate Sustainability
Shaping business practices for sustainable growth
Green business and sustainability focus on integrating environmental responsibility with business practices, ensuring that economic growth supports environmental health and social equity. Professionals in this field work to reduce carbon footprints, improve resource efficiency, and implement sustainable strategies in areas like energy, waste, and product design. They also focus on social equity, including ethical labor practices, diversity, and fair supply chains. Entrepreneurs in green business create innovative solutions to environmental challenges, often launching startups that drive sustainable market opportunities. Careers include roles in sustainability management, corporate responsibility, green entrepreneurship, and environmental consulting, with opportunities for growth across industries.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Environmental Compliance Technician
- Sustainability Data Analyst
- Green Building Technician
- Energy Efficiency Technician
- Carbon Footprint Analyst
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Corporate Sustainability Manager
- Environmental Impact Consultant
- Sustainability Reporting Specialist
- Energy Efficiency Program Manager
- Green Supply Chain Manager
Management (Master’s degree or PhD):
- Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO)
- Director of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
- Head of Environmental Strategy
- VP of Sustainability Operations
- Sustainability Portfolio Manager
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Environmental Policy, Law, and Advocacy
Creating, securing, and defending sustainable laws and practices
Environmental law, advocacy, and activism focuses on protecting the environment through legal frameworks, policy advocacy, and grassroots activism. These fields involve crafting, enforcing, and challenging laws, regulations, and policies to safeguard natural resources, combat pollution, and address climate change. Environmental professionals work with communities, governments, and corporations to ensure that environmental rights are upheld, particularly for marginalized groups. They push for laws that promote sustainability and equitable access to clean air, water, and land, often using litigation, advocacy campaigns, and lobbying to drive change.
Career Examples:
Technician (No Degree, Associate or Bachelor’s degree):
- Environmental Policy Research Assistant
- Legal Research Assistant (Environmental Law)
- Environmental Compliance Technician
- Advocacy Outreach Coordinator
- Environmental Regulatory Assistant
Professional (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree):
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Environmental Lawyer
- Environmental Lobbyist
- Sustainability and Legal Compliance Consultant
- Public Policy Advisor (Environmental Issues)
- Environmental Advocacy Coordinator
Management (Master’s degree or PhD):
- Director of Environmental Policy
- Chief Environmental Counsel
- Executive Director for Environmental Organization
- Senior Policy Advisor for Environmental Protection
- Environmental Law and Policy Director
- Director for Environmental Justice