Environmental engineer

Environmental engineers research, assess and manage the impact of human activity on the environment. They develop ways to dispose of waste and environmental hazards and to decrease pollution.

Also known as

Natural resources engineer, environment project engineer, environmental remediation engineer, conservation engineer, rivers engineer, civil and environmental engineer, environmental designer

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours
  • Usually work in offices and at outdoor work sites and may travel
  • May work in all weather conditions
  • Need to be accurate, safety conscious and identify and solve problems

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$55K-$190K 55000

Typical tasks

  • Design environmental control systems
  • Investigate environmental impacts of projects
  • Measure air, water and soil pollution
  • Analyse environmental data
  • Give sustainability advice and recommendations
  • Inspect sites and facilities
  • Prepare environmental reports
  • Maintain operational records
  • Develop technical processes
  • Ensure legal compliance of projects

Outlook

Environmental engineers develop solutions to environmental challenges involving water, waste, pollution and climate resilience. In New Zealand, investment in infrastructure, environmental management and climate adaptation is supporting ongoing demand for environmental engineering expertise. Emerging technologies, improved environmental monitoring and a growing focus on sustainable design are influencing the field. Internationally, the transition to lower-emissions systems and climate-resilient infrastructure continues to shape industry priorities.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Problem-solving and technical thinking
  • Knowledge of environmental systems and processes
  • Data analysis skills
  • Project planning and organisation
  • Collaboration and teamwork
  • Strong communication skills

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.