If you’re looking for work in a new field that is environmentally focused, there are many lucrative industries that are taking a more green approach to business practices.
You don’t have to be an environmental specialist or scientist in order to secure a job that helps the environment!
From the oil and gas industry to technology and business administration, there are many available positions that support companies in boosting environmental practices and reducing their carbon footprint.
If you’re interested in helping the environment in unexpected job fields, here are a few you should check out:
Oil and Gas
There are ways to work in the oilfield industry while helping the environment! Environmental concerns are at the forefront of the development of technology, with more and more companies focusing on environmental protection while performing their operations.
Because of this, there is a high demand for environmental jobs in the oil and gas industry, such as:
- Environmental Manager: An environmental manager is responsible for ensuring that a company complies with local and federal regulations.
- Hazmat Technician: Companies recognize the need to dispose of hazardous materials in a way that is environmentally friendly. Hazmat technicians are responsible for cleaning and decontaminating materials following spills and accidents.
- Environmental Scientist: Environmental scientists conduct studies on potential sites for pipelines and well to ensure the area is adequate for the planned project as well as how the project will impact local plants and wildlife.
Law
Yes, there is such thing as environmental lawyers! These lawyers help companies, individuals, organizations, and the government when it comes to resolving environmental issues.
For example, they may deal with legal situations that involve air and water quality, sustainability strategies, hazardous waste, waste management, and alternative energy sources.
Environmental lawyers advocate for balanced regulations regarding environmental rights and international environmental law.
Technology
Even in the field of technology, there is room to be more environmentally conscious. Becoming sustainable requires efficient communication and information technologies.
Check out Canada’s top eco-friendly employers and you’ll notice many are involved in the IT industry!
IT specialists can help the environment through the following positions:
- Computer Software Engineering: These individuals use programming languages to create software that can be used to reduce costs and waste as well as help companies follow environmental standards.
- Sustainability Data Analyst: A sustainability data analyst helps companies keep track of their green goals by taking all information into consideration and helping businesses make environmentally friendly decisions.
- Environmentally Sustainable IT: Green IT is focused on using information technology in order to minimize damage to the environment.
- Web Design: You can help support sustainable companies by offering services as a web designer.
Government
There are many opportunities to help the environment when working for the government. Some of the most in-demand positions include arbitrators and mediators that help with resolving sustainability-related conflicts.
You can also get involved in energy auditing which involves ensuring that buildings and systems remain compliant with energy regulations.
Urban and regional planning is also considered a green job since you can promote environmental sustainability while developing plans and programs for land use.
Business and Administration
Any organization, whether they are environmentally focused or not, requires administrative bodies. Here are some green positions you can find within the business and administration sector:
- Sustainability Specialists deal with issues such as waste management and green policies.
- Environmental managers ensure that organizations comply with environmental regulations.
- Construction inspectors make sure that construction projects meet environmental regulations as well as building codes and contract specifications.
Create Your Own Green Job!
The above are just some examples of unexpected job fields that help the environment. If nothing catches your interest and you want to pursue your own passions, you can always create your own green job!
Start with an idea and some goals before choosing the sector you want to involve yourself in. Are you interested in agriculture? Education? The public sector?
Next, figure out how you want to create your job. Do you want to be part of a non-profit group or create your own? Do you want to be self-employed and start your own business?
There’s a lot involved when it comes to starting your own business and creating a green job for yourself, but it’s not impossible!
Finding a Green Career to Help the Environment
Are you ready to save the planet but don’t know where to start?
You can start by searching for environmentally sustainable jobs on popular job boards such as Indeed and Monster.
You can also create a LinkedIn profile and network with other professionals in the field you are interested in.
No matter where you end up, there are always ways you can contribute to a greener way of working. Apply to environmentally friendly companies or change your own habits to create a more sustainable world.
