Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians

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.

SOC: 17-3025.00

Common Job Titles

Air Quality Instrument SpecialistEnvironmental Field TechnicianEnvironmental TechnicianHaz Tech (Hazardous Technician)

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • Hands-onOperate environmental monitoring equipment including spectrophotometers, gas chromatographs, and water quality monitors in field and laboratory settings following standardized protocols under engineering supervision.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate environmental samples and monitoring data for compliance with regulatory standards using analytical instruments and following EPA protocols.
  • MindsetIntegrate safety protocols with environmental sampling procedures when working with hazardous materials at contaminated sites.
  • KnowledgeInterpret environmental monitoring results and technical data using GIS software, AutoCAD, and statistical analysis tools to support regulatory reporting.
  • KnowledgeCompare remediation system performance against design specifications monitoring processes and materials to optimize environmental control effectiveness.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze contamination levels and remediation effectiveness at waste treatment and site remediation projects using mathematical and statistical methods.
  • Hands-onCalibrate environmental testing and monitoring devices ensuring measurement accuracy according to quality control standards.
  • KnowledgeApply engineering principles to modify and test environmental control equipment collaborating with engineers and scientists on remediation device development.
  • Hands-onExecute field sampling procedures for soil, water, and air quality assessment using specialized equipment including groundwater samplers and particle counters.
  • MindsetEngage with interdisciplinary teams and regulatory stakeholders communicating technical findings and coordinating environmental compliance activities.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

12,500

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$39,670
10% of workers earn the following or more$92,280
Workers on average earn$63,070

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Engineering and Technology3.7/5
  • Mathematics3.6/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
  • English Language3.4/5
  • Chemistry3.4/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Autodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DBentley MicroStationC++ESRI ArcGIS softwareMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordPythonSASThe MathWorks MATLAB

Technology Skills

ANSYS simulation softwareAdobe PageMakerAir dispersion modeling softwareComputer aided design and drafting CADD softwareContinuous emission management softwareDHI Water and Environment MIKE SHEDatabase softwareEcological risk assessment software

Tools & Equipment

13C nuclear magnetic resonance NMR spectrometersAeration pumpsAerobic laboratory scale reactorsAir monitoring equipmentAir velocity metersAirborne particulate samplersAnaerobic laboratory glove bagsAnaerobic laboratory scale reactors