Environmental pollution makes headlines
in the news from time to time,
but it’s the top concern every day
for environmental engineering technicians.
They run the equipment
and collect test samples
that monitor air and water quality
to help keep the public healthy and secure.
Environmental engineering technicians
carry out the plans that
environmental engineers develop.
They operate equipment
used to prevent or clean up
environmental pollution,
and modify the equipment
to meet a particular need.
They collect air and water samples,
and work to mitigate sources
of environmental pollution,
including lead, asbestos,
and other hazardous materials.
In laboratories,
and when inspecting facilities for compliance,
these technicians record observations
and test results.
Some are responsible for
maintaining supplies in their laboratories.
Most technicians work full-time,
regular business hours, in labs.
If called on to contain
a major environmental threat,
or perform other work in a remote location,
longer hours are common.
Environmental engineering technicians
can be exposed to hazards,
and may need to wear hazmat suits,
heavy rubber boots,
and sometimes respirators,
even in warm weather.
Most environmental engineering technicians
work in engineering services,
consulting services, government,
waste management, and manufacturing.
An associate’s degree in
environmental engineering technology
or a related field is required
to enter the field.
High school science
and math courses are helpful.