Senior Environmental Engineer

Usually requires at least a technical degree and 5 or more years of relevant experience. A Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in environmental engineering is recommended.

Helpful courses to take in high school include various science courses such as chemistry, biology, and physics; mathematics; environmental science; and geography.

• Sampling equipment to collect raw materials, such as water and soil samples, for analyzing environmental impact. Equipment such as pumps, filters, droppers and vials are included.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for analyzing spatial data and creating maps of working forest land.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software. This software is used to create detailed designs and models of environmental systems.
• Remote sensing technologies such as satellite imagery, aerial photography from drones, and LIDAR to collect data surrounding deforestation, land use change and soil erosion.

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Senior Environmental Engineers must be able to analyze complex environmental problems and suggest solutions for overcoming such problems. They must also be able think creatively and approach situations from various perspectives.

A solid knowledge of the chemical, biological and physical sciences.

An understanding of environmental systems, pollution effects and the operation of environmental technologies.

Good communication and teamwork skills, as many projects require teammates and work across various departments in the organization.

Knowledge of environmental standards and guidelines to ensure all plans and projects are in alignment with such regulations.

Some of the tasks the Senior Environmental Engineer might be responsible for include conducting environmental impact assessments, creating and implementing pollution control systems, and ensuring the forestry organization is in compliance with environmental regulations. In addition, they may be responsible for:

• Forest management planning. Developing and implementing plans that enhance the sustainability of the working forest. Soil and water conservation, and protection of wildlife habitats are among the factors that are considered.
• Forest inventory and mapping. The Senior Environmental Engineer may conduct surveys using GIS tools to generate maps of the working forest.
• Design forest reforestation and rehabilitation plans.
• Conduct forest-related environmental impact assessments, such as studying the impact of planned logging operations, to ensure these activities are conducted in a sustainable manner.
• Work with other professionals across the forestry organization, such as scientists, executives and loggers to develop and implement environmental projects and plans.