Environmental officer
Save the planet by helping organisations follow environmental laws and regulations.
Also known as: environmental compliance officer
About the job
What it's like
Could you help the nation’s businesses and governments become greener? As an environmental officer, you’ll make sure they abide by sustainability laws and regulations.
You’ll work with organisations to promote and implement sustainable practices. Imagine helping a business or government improve its carbon footprint – and it was all due to your great suggestions!
For example, you may test a river for signs of pollution. You’ll collect water samples from various parts of the river to check for pollutants and chemicals. You’ll also study the presence of fish, algae and insects. If you find any signs of pollution, you’ll use your expertise to find out where it’s coming from. Finally, you’ll liaise with those responsible for the pollution and give them tips on how they can operate more sustainably.
If you're passionate about the environment and love helping others become greener, this job could be perfect for you!
Your tasks might include:
visiting factories, farms, rivers or waste facilities to make sure they comply with environmental laws
taking water, soil and air samples to test them for signs of pollution
monitoring noise levels, radiation or other environmental hazards in industrial areas
investigating reports of pollution, fly tipping or environmental damage
giving out warnings or fines if regulations are violated
developing strategies to reduce pollution and improve waste management
educating businesses, governments and the public about their environmental responsibilities
Green job
In this job, you'll do work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
GOV.UK – learn how to become an environmental officer
GOV.UK blog – check out this day in the life of a new environmental officer
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Select qualification level(s)
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Construction and built environment -
Transport
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- building relationships
- problem solving
- taking initiative
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
- ethical
- analysing
- verbal communication
- written communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Environmental Science
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Geography
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Physics
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Chemistry
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English
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Biology
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Modern Studies
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Skills for Work: Energy
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Skills for Work: Laboratory Science
Most environmental officers have a degree.
Although, some roles may accept college qualifications, apprenticeships or work-based experience.
University
A degree may be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Environmental Science
Environmental Management
Ecology and Conservation
Environmental Sustainability
Geography
Biology
Use the My World of Work course search to find degrees.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you find work or progress on to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Environmental Management
Environmental Science
Wildlife and Conservation Management
Renewable Energy
Geography
Biology
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Work
It’s possible to start in a relevant entry-level role and work your way up to become an environmental officer.
For example, a background as an environmental technician, laboratory assistant or waste management operative is a great steppingstone.
Use the My World of Work job search to look for vacancies.
Volunteering in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become an environmental officer. Search for environmental opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
Any environment-based volunteering will look amazing on your CV. Volunteering is particularly helpful when applying for relevant courses or entry-level roles.
For some roles, you may need a full driving licence to travel around the country.
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Environmental officer'
