There are four items required to become a green engineer: post-secondary training, related work experience, passing the licensing examination, and completing the job interview process. A green engineer is a professional engineer trained to design systems and improve engineering processes to reduce pollution and provide clean water, land, and air.
People who are detail-oriented, enjoy large, multifaceted projects, and have excellent problem-solving skills find this type of career rewarding. In this role, project management and engineering skills are important, as the primary task is to reduce the negative impact of human development on the planet. Due to the increased focus on environmental issues and concerns, interest in this career has increased dramatically in the past few years.
The first step necessary to become a green engineer is to complete a post-secondary education program in environmental engineering. This professional program is four to five years in length and must be completed through an accredited university. A professional designation as an engineer (P.Eng) is required to work as an engineer. Additional courses and a written examination after graduation are required to obtain this professional designation.
Admission to an environmental engineering degree program requires high marks in high school calculus, algebra, chemistry, technology, and English courses. These programs are very competitive, with the best schools requiring personal essay, interviews, and references as part of the application process. The tuition fees to become an environmental engineer are higher than a bachelor of arts degree, as this is a professional program.
Work experience as an engineer is usually obtained through a job placement or internship program organized through the faculty of engineering. This is the only way to gain engineering experience before graduation. Related work experience includes working on a large-scale project as a team member or organizing a large group of people.
In order to become a green engineer, all candidates must complete the licensing examination organized by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying® (NCEES®). This association is responsible for issuing the professional engineer (P.Eng) designation in the United States. The process varies by state, but typically requires a written examination and verifiable work experience as an engineer.
During the job interview process to become a green engineer, take the time to prepare for the interview. Think of a list of standard interview questions and prepare your answers in advance. Take your time and answer all the questions to the best of your abilities. Be prepared to show your dedication to improving the environment. This can be achieved through volunteer activities, written articles, design ideas, or related activities.