Environmental officer
Environmental officers must ensure their employers are complying with environmental legislation. They can find work in a wide range of organisations in the public and private sectors.
Environmental officers are responsible for developing and implementing environmental management systems.
Did you know?
The Inland Revenue’s vast Newcastle complex reduced its water consumption by 29.6 per cent, electricity by 31.6 per cent and gas usage by 29.5 per cent after initiating its own sustainable development programme.
Facts and Figures
- Starting salary:
Graduate members of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) earn an average of £20,540, with Associates earning around £35,200.
- Senior level salary:
Full IEMA members can earn between £44,000 and £60,000.
- Education:
A degree is not always necessary, as Associate membership of IEMA is through an assessment. Two-thirds of their members, however, have an environment-related qualification, and over half a postgraduate qualification. Level 1 and 2 NVQs in Environmental Management are also being developed.
- Skills:
You'll need to be strong on science and IT and have good organisational and communication skills. Work experience in a science or environment-related job would be an advantage.
- Likely employer type:
Central and local government bodies and organisations in the chemical and heavy industrial sectors. Local authorities also have environmental responsibilities and employ environmental officers in their planning, leisure and education departments.
- Opportunities:
Large commercial companies, especially in the chemical and industrial sectors, are increasingly employing environmental officers.
Meet an environmental officer
Helpful links
- Institute of Environmental Management and AssessmentThe professional body for environment professionals
- ProspectsContains case studies written by environmental officers which give an insight into the role
