What does an environmental engineer do?

Environmental engineering is a rapidly growing field that is focused on protecting the planet and improving public health through innovative engineering solutions. Professionals in this field–known as environmental engineers–design systems to manage waste, improve water and air quality, and reduce pollution. Their work plays a vital role in creating a more sustainable future.

If you’re considering a career in environmental engineering or wondering exactly what an environmental engineer does, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From the different types of environmental engineering to the education required and potential environmental engineering jobs, we’ll cover what it takes to succeed in this impactful and rewarding profession.

What is an environmental engineer?

An environmental engineer is a licensed professional who uses engineering principles to solve environmental problems and promote sustainability. By combining knowledge of biology, chemistry, and environmental science, environmental engineers design systems that manage waste, treat water, improve air quality, and reduce pollution.

Professionals in environmental engineering work to protect public health and the environment. Their responsibilities often include developing solutions for wastewater treatment, hazardous material cleanup, and environmental compliance. Environmental engineers also help organizations meet regulatory standards and implement greener, more efficient practices.

This field plays a vital role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, resource conservation, and environmental justice. As a result, careers in environmental engineering are growing across both public and private sectors, offering opportunities to make a lasting impact on the world.

Types of environmental engineers

The field of environmental engineering includes several areas of specialization, each focused on solving different environmental challenges. Understanding the types of environmental engineering can help you choose a career path that aligns with your interests and strengths.

Common types of environmental engineering

• Water Resources Engineering: Focuses on the design of systems for water supply, treatment, and distribution, as well as stormwater and flood management.
• Air Quality Engineering: Addresses the control and reduction of air pollutants from industrial and transportation sources to protect public health and meet regulatory standards.
• Environmental Health Engineering: Combines environmental science and public health to reduce risks related to exposure to toxins, pathogens, and unsafe infrastructure.
• Sustainable and Renewable Energy Engineering: Focuses on the development of clean energy solutions such as solar, wind, and bioenergy, promoting energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
• Site Remediation and Soil Engineering: Deals with cleaning up contaminated land through techniques like soil vapor extraction, bioremediation, and excavation.

Each of these specialties offers unique challenges and career opportunities for professionals with a degree in engineering. Choosing a focus area can help guide your environmental engineering education and long-term career goals.

Common responsibilities of environmental engineers:

• Design and oversee water treatment systems to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water.
• Develop pollution control technologies for air, water, and soil to minimize environmental impact.
• Manage hazardous waste disposal and remediation projects to clean up contaminated sites.
• Conduct environmental impact assessments for construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects.
• Advise organizations and governments on environmental regulations and sustainable practices.
• Monitor compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws.
• Implement renewable energy systems and promote resource conservation strategies.

Environmental engineering jobs may focus on specific areas such as wastewater treatment, stormwater management, air quality, or industrial sustainability. The role often involves collaboration with civil engineers, urban planners, scientists, and policymakers.

Professionals working in environmental engineering careers must be detail-oriented, analytical, and committed to solving complex problems that affect ecosystems and communities alike.

Where do environmental engineers work?

Environmental engineers work in a wide range of settings across both public and private sectors. Their job environments vary based on their area of specialization, the type of employer, and the nature of the projects they manage.

Common work environments for environmental engineers:

• Government agencies (e.g., EPA, state environmental departments) to develop regulations and oversee compliance. 
• Engineering and consulting firms that design and implement environmental systems and solutions for clients. 
• Manufacturing and industrial facilities to reduce emissions, manage waste, and improve sustainability.
• Research institutions and universities conducting studies on pollution control, climate change, and environmental technology.
• Construction and infrastructure companies to manage the environmental impact of development projects.
• Nonprofit organizations focused on environmental conservation and public health initiatives. 

Many professionals in environmental engineering jobs split their time between office-based tasks–such as data analysis and report writing–and fieldwork, where they oversee project implementation and site inspections.

As demand grows for sustainable development and environmental protection, careers in environmental engineering continue to expand across industries and geographic regions.

Environmental engineering education path

A career in environmental engineering begins with the right educational foundation. Most environmental engineering jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a closely related field such as civil or chemical engineering.

Steps to becoming an environmental engineer:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Start with an ABET-accredited environmental engineering degree program that covers key topics like fluid mechanics, chemistry, microbiology, and environmental systems design.
2. Pass the FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) Exam: This is the first step toward becoming a licensed professional engineer (PE). 
3. Gain Relevant Work Experience: Most states require four years of supervised work experience before you can take the PE exam.
4. Pass the PE (Principles and Practice of Engineering) Exam: Earning your PE license demonstrates your expertise and qualifies you for higher-level environmental engineering careers.
5. Consider Graduate Education or Special Certifications: Some professionals pursue a master’s degree to specialize in advanced topics or conduct research. Certifications in sustainability, air quality, or hazardous materials management can also enhance your qualifications.

A strong academic foundation and professional licensure are essential for long-term success in environmental engineering careers. Whether you’re beginning your journey or preparing for licensure, PPI supports your goals with trusted test prep materials for both the FE and PE exams, as well as continuing education resources and career development tools. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to take the next step in your environmental engineering education and build a successful future in the field. 

What can you do with an environmental engineering degree?

Earning an environmental engineering degree opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities across industries that value sustainability, compliance, and environmental protection. With growing global concerns around climate change, clean energy, and pollution control, the demand for qualified environmental engineers is on the rise.

Career paths with an environmental engineering degree:

• Water and Wastewater Engineer: Design and maintain systems that provide clean drinking water and treat municipal or industrial wastewater.
• Air Quality Specialist: Monitor and reduce air pollution through regulatory compliance and advanced filtration or emissions systems.
• Environmental Consultant: Advise businesses and government agencies on environmental regulations, risk assessment, and sustainable practices.
• Hazardous Waste Manager: Oversee the safe disposal, treatment, and containment of hazardous materials.
• Sustainability Engineer: Develop eco-friendly systems, energy-efficient processes, and renewable energy solutions.
• Remediation Engineer: Clean up contaminated land and groundwater at industrial or disaster-affected sites.

Graduates may also work in research, policy, or education, or continue on to earn advanced degrees. With the right combination of skills, experience, and licensure, professionals can move into leadership roles and specialized sectors within the industry. 

How to get started in environmental engineering

Breaking into the field of environmental engineering involves more than just earning a degree. If you’re exploring the profession or considering a shift into a sustainability-focused career, there are several ways to build a foundation and start gaining relevant experience–before or even while pursuing your environmental engineering education.

Practical ways to start your career in environmental engineering:

• Explore Introductory Courses or Certifications: Take online or in-person courses related to environmental science, sustainability, or engineering basics to see if the field aligns with your interests.
• Volunteer with Environmental Organizations: Get hands-on experience by working with nonprofits focused on clean water, conservation, or pollution prevention. This can strengthen your resume and confirm your passion for the field.
• Attend Industry Events and Conferences: Engage with professionals at environmental engineering conferences or local sustainability meetups to learn about real-world applications and emerging technologies.
• Shadow or Interview a Working Environmental Engineer: Informational interviews and job shadowing provide insights into what environmental engineers actually do day-to-day–helping you choose the right path or specialization.
• Research Environmental Engineering Careers: Explore job boards and industry publications to better understand environmental engineering jobs, the skills in demand, and the types of employers hiring in this space. 

Shape a sustainable future with environmental engineering

The need for innovative, sustainability-minded problem solvers has never been greater–and that’s where environmental engineers come in. From protecting natural resources to designing cleaner technologies, this field offers a chance to make a meaningful, long-term impact across industries and communities. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, PPI offers more than just exam prep. We provide the tools, confidence, and ongoing support you need to thrive–whether you’re studying for the FE Environmental Exam or the PE Exam, exploring new specialties, or advancing your skills through continuing education.