Now more than ever we are conscious of the impact a built environment is having on our surroundings, which is why Environmental Advisors are so important. They ensure that environmental targets, regulations and standards supporting animal and plant life are adhered to, during a construction project. They are involved in the strategic planning of reducing material waste, ensuring correct waste disposal, and minimising pollution to air,water or soil..
Sector
Residential / Commercial / Civil
What might a working day look like?
Every day is different and varies depending on the job, but you may be required to:
- Planning and conducting research into the environment surrounding a proposed project and creating proposals to minimise the impact of the construction processes on the environment
- Monitoring the impacts of development activities and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations throughout a project
- Conducting field surveys and environmental audits to produce reports on the environmental impacts and potential impacts of projects
- Collecting samples, consulting with developers and stakeholders or using measuring and surveying equipment
- Setting environmental targets with a construction company including waste management plans
- Assisting with environmental issues such as pollution, accidents or potential hazards including rehabilitating land, water and air affected by activities
- Investigate and report breaches of environmental guidelines
Working hours & conditions
- Mix of office and on-site work
- Generally full time, may be required to travel for work
Skills and personal qualities
- Able to analyse information using scientific rules and methods to solve problems
- Ability to think innovatively and creatively
- Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Can work as part of a team and autonomously
- Excellent time management and organisational skills
How to get started
To become an Environmental Advisor, you will need a university degree in environmental science, conservation or a related field. Contact individual universities to check for any pre-requisites before year 11 subject selection and consult your school careers advisor on how to enrol at university.
Future Pathways and opportunities
- Environmental Management
- Conservation Biology
- Natural Resource Management
- Consultant