Environmental Engineers
Medium47.36%
Salary Range
Low (10th %)$63,370
Median$100,090
High (90th %)$156,530
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Research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology.
The occupation "Environmental Engineers" has an automation risk of 47.4%, which is slightly below the base occupational risk of 48.3%. This near-average figure indicates that while a significant proportion of the tasks in environmental engineering are susceptible to automation, a substantial fraction of responsibilities still require human judgment and creativity. The risk assessment is largely influenced by the increasing capabilities of AI and automation systems to handle well-defined, structured tasks, especially those involving data analysis, system design, and environmental monitoring. However, complete automation is unlikely due to the multifaceted and evolving nature of environmental challenges, which often call for bespoke solutions tailored to specific contexts. When examining the most automatable tasks within environmental engineering, three stand out prominently. First is the "design, or supervision of the design, of systems, processes, or equipment for control, management, or remediation of water, air, or soil quality," as this can often follow standardized procedures and leverage advanced modeling software. The second is "assessing existing or potential environmental impacts of land use projects on air, water, or land," which relies heavily on data-driven simulations and environmental modeling—areas where AI excels. Thirdly, "collaborating with various specialists to address environmental problems" is increasingly being streamlined with collaborative platforms, automated report generation, and integrated digital communication tools, further improving efficiency and automation potential in these interactions. Conversely, some tasks remain resistant to automation due to their reliance on human intuition, adaptability, and communication. These include "assessing, sorting, characterizing, or packing known or unknown materials," a task requiring on-the-ground sensory perception, experience, and safety judgment. Writing original, nuanced reports or articles for online platforms remains a challenge for automation, as it requires a high degree of originality and understanding of new developments. Finally, "attending professional conferences to share information" is inherently human, involving unpredictable face-to-face networking and contextual conversations. Bottleneck skills such as originality—which register at 3.6% and 4.0% in critical job tasks—highlight the importance of creative problem-solving and innovation, underscoring the limits of automation in this complex, dynamic field.
Filter by Automatable Status
Assess the existing or potential environmental impact of land use projects on air, water, or land.
Partially Automatable
Collaborate with environmental scientists, planners, hazardous waste technicians, engineers, experts in law or business, or other specialists to address environmental problems.
Partially Automatable
Advise corporations or government agencies of procedures to follow in cleaning up contaminated sites to protect people and the environment.
Partially Automatable
Develop proposed project objectives and targets and report to management on progress in attaining them.
Partially Automatable
Monitor progress of environmental improvement programs.
Partially Automatable
Prepare, review, or update environmental investigation or recommendation reports.
Partially Automatable
Prepare, maintain, or revise quality assurance documentation or procedures.
Partially Automatable
Prepare or present public briefings on the status of environmental engineering projects.
Partially Automatable
Assist in budget implementation, forecasts, or administration.
Partially Automatable
Coordinate or manage environmental protection programs or projects, assigning or evaluating work.
Partially Automatable
Advise industries or government agencies about environmental policies and standards.
Partially Automatable
Direct installation or operation of environmental monitoring devices or supervise related data collection programs.
Partially Automatable
Inspect industrial or municipal facilities or programs to evaluate operational effectiveness or ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Partially Automatable
Request bids from suppliers or consultants.
Partially Automatable
Inform company employees or other interested parties of environmental issues.
Partially Automatable
Provide administrative support for projects by collecting data, providing project documentation, training staff, or performing other general administrative duties.
Partially Automatable
Provide environmental engineering assistance in network analysis, regulatory analysis, or planning or reviewing database development.
Partially Automatable
Develop or present environmental compliance training or orientation sessions.
Partially Automatable
Provide assistance with planning, quality assurance, safety inspection protocols, or sampling as part of a team conducting multimedia inspections at complex facilities.
Partially Automatable
Develop, implement, or manage plans or programs related to conservation or management of natural resources.
Partially Automatable
Prepare hazardous waste manifests or land disposal restriction notifications.
Partially Automatable
Attend professional conferences to share information.
Partially Automatable
Write reports or articles for Web sites or newsletters related to environmental engineering issues.
Partially Automatable
Assess, sort, characterize, or pack known or unknown materials.
Partially Automatable
Design, or supervise the design of, systems, processes, or equipment for control, management, or remediation of water, air, or soil quality.
Partially Automatable
Provide technical support for environmental remediation or litigation projects, including remediation system design or determination of regulatory applicability.
Partially Automatable
Obtain, update, or maintain plans, permits, or standard operating procedures.
Partially Automatable
Serve as liaison with federal, state, or local agencies or officials on issues pertaining to solid or hazardous waste program requirements.
Partially Automatable
Develop site-specific health and safety protocols, such as spill contingency plans or methods for loading or transporting waste.
Partially Automatable
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningCritical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingOperations MonitoringQuality Control AnalysisSystems EvaluationManagement of Personnel ResourcesWritingSpeakingMathematicsScienceActive LearningLearning StrategiesMonitoringSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationPersuasionNegotiationInstructingService OrientationOperations AnalysisTechnology DesignEquipment SelectionInstallationProgrammingOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceTroubleshootingRepairingJudgment and Decision MakingSystems AnalysisTime ManagementManagement of Financial ResourcesManagement of Material Resources
Arm-Hand SteadinessAuditory AttentionCategory FlexibilityControl PrecisionDeductive ReasoningDepth PerceptionDynamic FlexibilityDynamic StrengthExplosive StrengthExtent FlexibilityFar VisionFinger DexterityFlexibility of ClosureFluency of IdeasGlare SensitivityGross Body CoordinationGross Body EquilibriumHearing SensitivityInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingManual DexterityMathematical ReasoningMemorizationMultilimb CoordinationNear VisionNight VisionNumber FacilityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionOriginalityPerceptual SpeedPeripheral VisionProblem SensitivityRate ControlReaction TimeResponse OrientationSelective AttentionSound LocalizationSpatial OrientationSpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionSpeed of ClosureSpeed of Limb MovementStaminaStatic StrengthTime SharingTrunk StrengthVisual Color DiscriminationVisualizationWrist-Finger SpeedWritten ComprehensionWritten Expression
Administration and ManagementAdministrativeEconomics and AccountingSales and MarketingCustomer and Personal ServicePersonnel and Human ResourcesProduction and ProcessingFood ProductionComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and TechnologyDesignBuilding and ConstructionMechanicalMathematicsPhysicsChemistryBiologyForeign LanguageMedicine and DentistryHistory and ArcheologyFine ArtsPhilosophy and TheologyPublic Safety and SecurityLaw and GovernmentTelecommunicationsCommunications and MediaTransportationPsychologyGeographyEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingTherapy and CounselingSociology and Anthropology
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsGetting InformationInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsProcessing InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeDeveloping Objectives and StrategiesScheduling Work and ActivitiesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkPerforming General Physical ActivitiesHandling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentWorking with ComputersRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsAssisting and Caring for OthersSelling or Influencing OthersResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersDeveloping and Building TeamsTraining and Teaching OthersGuiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersPerforming Administrative ActivitiesStaffing Organizational UnitsMonitoring and Controlling ResourcesDocumenting/Recording InformationEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleRepairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment
Computer aided design and drafting software CADDAutodesk AutoCADEkoC++Bentley MicroStationAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DESRI ArcViewHEC-RASFormula translation/translator FORTRANBusiness software applicationsMaplesoft MapleFinite element method FEM softwareImage analysis softwareContinuous emission management softwareEcological risk assessment softwareFugitive emission leak detection softwareGas dispersion model softwareGreenhouse gas management softwareHydrologic simulation program fortan HSPF softwareLINDO Systems optimization modeling softwareSimulation softwareSASThe MathWorks MATLABPythonXP Software XPSWMMOil mapping softwarePhotogrammetric softwareMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft WordRegulatory compliance management softwareMicrosoft Office softwareRockWare MODFLOWSimultaneous location and mapping SLAMSofTech CADRAStormwater runoff modeling softwareWAM softwareWaste management softwareRockwell Automation ArenaRegulatory compliance management softwareSite remediation management softwareSite remediation management softwareWind flow modeling softwareWind flow modeling softwareEcological risk assessment softwareDHI Water and Environment MIKE SHEEkoComputer aided design CAD softwareBentley MicroStationBusiness software applicationsComputer aided design and drafting software CADDAir dispersion modeling softwareSASGeomechanical design analysis GDA softwareMaterial safety data sheet MSDS softwareThe MathWorks MATLABFinite element method FEM softwareESRI ArcViewHEC-RASFormula translation/translator FORTRANWater flow modeling softwareGeographic information system GIS systemsXP Software XPSWMMHazardous materials management HMS softwareOil mapping softwareFugitive emission leak detection softwareMaplesoft MapleGreenhouse gas management softwareSimulation softwareMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft WordImage analysis softwareLINDO Systems optimization modeling softwarePhotogrammetric softwareMicrosoft ExcelRockWare MODFLOWSimultaneous location and mapping SLAMSofTech CADRAStormwater runoff modeling softwareWAM softwareWaste management softwareRockwell Automation ArenaANSYS simulation softwareANSYS simulation softwarePythonAutodesk AutoCADC++Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DESRI ArcGIS softwareInsightful S-PLUSInsightful S-PLUSComputer aided design CAD softwareGeographic information system GIS systemsESRI ArcGIS softwareWater flow modeling softwareGeomechanical design analysis GDA softwareContinuous emission management softwareGas dispersion model softwareHydrologic simulation program fortan HSPF softwareAir dispersion modeling softwareDHI Water and Environment MIKE SHEMaterial safety data sheet MSDS softwareHazardous materials management HMS softwareEnvironmental health and safety documentation softwareEnvironmental health and safety documentation softwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft Access
Water Resource Specialists
Medium52.67%
Design or implement programs and strategies related to water resource issues such as supply, quality, and regulatory compliance issues.
Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
Medium48.09%
Plan and direct cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated properties for reuse. Does not include properties sufficiently contaminated to qualify as Superfund sites.
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Medium52.09%
Inspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local regulations and ordinances.
Agricultural Engineers
Medium43.86%
Apply knowledge of engineering technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water conservation, and processing of agricultural products.
Chemical Engineers
Medium50.90%
Design chemical plant equipment and devise processes for manufacturing chemicals and products, such as gasoline, synthetic rubber, plastics, detergents, cement, paper, and pulp, by applying principles and technology of chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Civil Engineers
Medium50.63%
Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems.
Water/Wastewater Engineers
Medium47.31%
Design or oversee projects involving provision of potable water, disposal of wastewater and sewage, or prevention of flood-related damage. Prepare environmental documentation for water resources, regulatory program compliance, data management and analysis, and field work. Perform hydraulic modeling and pipeline design.
Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors
Medium45.53%
Promote worksite or product safety by applying knowledge of industrial processes, mechanics, chemistry, psychology, and industrial health and safety laws. Includes industrial product safety engineers.
Nuclear Engineers
Medium41.73%
Conduct research on nuclear engineering projects or apply principles and theory of nuclear science to problems concerned with release, control, and use of nuclear energy and nuclear waste disposal.
Petroleum Engineers
Medium51.23%
Devise methods to improve oil and gas extraction and production and determine the need for new or modified tool designs. Oversee drilling and offer technical advice.
Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Medium48.30%
Apply theory and principles of environmental engineering to modify, test, and operate equipment and devices used in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental problems, including waste treatment and site remediation, under the direction of engineering staff or scientists. May assist in the development of environmental remediation devices.
Conservation Scientists
Medium46.68%
Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. May conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion or to protect rangelands. May instruct farmers, agricultural production managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for stock watering.
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Medium51.39%
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.
Environmental Restoration Planners
Medium49.13%
Collaborate with field and biology staff to oversee the implementation of restoration projects and to develop new products. Process and synthesize complex scientific data into practical strategies for restoration, monitoring or management.
Industrial Ecologists
Medium49.08%
Apply principles and processes of natural ecosystems to develop models for efficient industrial systems. Use knowledge from the physical and social sciences to maximize effective use of natural resources in the production and use of goods and services. Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.
Hydrologists
Medium50.06%
Research the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of underground and surface waters; and study the form and intensity of precipitation and its rate of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth, and return to the ocean and atmosphere.
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
Medium50.23%
Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing.
Hydrologic Technicians
Medium53.13%
Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling equipment, and process samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
Medium45.89%
Review, evaluate, and analyze work environments and design programs and procedures to control, eliminate, and prevent disease or injury caused by chemical, physical, and biological agents or ergonomic factors. May conduct inspections and enforce adherence to laws and regulations governing the health and safety of individuals. May be employed in the public or private sector.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Medium52.51%
Operate or control an entire process or system of machines, often through the use of control boards, to transfer or treat water or wastewater.
Chief Sustainability Officers
Medium50.38%
Communicate and coordinate with management, shareholders, customers, and employees to address sustainability issues. Enact or oversee a corporate sustainability strategy.
Facilities Managers
Medium49.28%
Plan, direct, or coordinate operations and functionalities of facilities and buildings. May include surrounding grounds or multiple facilities of an organization's campus.
Sustainability Specialists
Medium54.37%
Address organizational sustainability issues, such as waste stream management, green building practices, and green procurement plans.
Transportation Engineers
Medium49.13%
Develop plans for surface transportation projects, according to established engineering standards and state or federal construction policy. Prepare designs, specifications, or estimates for transportation facilities. Plan modifications of existing streets, highways, or freeways to improve traffic flow.
Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers
Medium47.22%
Research causes of fires, determine fire protection methods, and design or recommend materials or equipment such as structural components or fire-detection equipment to assist organizations in safeguarding life and property against fire, explosion, and related hazards.
Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
Medium49.08%
Conduct subsurface surveys to identify the characteristics of potential land or mining development sites. May specify the ground support systems, processes, and equipment for safe, economical, and environmentally sound extraction or underground construction activities. May inspect areas for unsafe geological conditions, equipment, and working conditions. May design, implement, and coordinate mine safety programs.
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Medium52.65%
Design, develop, or evaluate energy-related projects or programs to reduce energy costs or improve energy efficiency during the designing, building, or remodeling stages of construction. May specialize in electrical systems; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; green buildings; lighting; air quality; or energy procurement.
Foresters
Medium47.18%
Manage public and private forested lands for economic, recreational, and conservation purposes. May inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber, appraise the timber's worth, negotiate the purchase, and draw up contracts for procurement. May determine how to conserve wildlife habitats, creek beds, water quality, and soil stability, and how best to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for planting and growing new trees, monitor trees for healthy growth, and determine optimal harvesting schedules.
Climate Change Policy Analysts
Medium47.42%
Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.
Occupational Health and Safety Technicians
Medium49.25%
Collect data on work environments for analysis by occupational health and safety specialists. Implement and conduct evaluation of programs designed to limit chemical, physical, biological, and ergonomic risks to workers.
Pest Control Workers
Low26.55%
Apply or release chemical solutions or toxic gases and set traps to kill or remove pests and vermin that infest buildings and surrounding areas.
Hazardous Materials Removal Workers
Medium36.40%
Identify, remove, pack, transport, or dispose of hazardous materials, including asbestos, lead-based paint, waste oil, fuel, transmission fluid, radioactive materials, or contaminated soil. Specialized training and certification in hazardous materials handling or a confined entry permit are generally required. May operate earth-moving equipment or trucks.