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Degrees and Schools
Educational programs in environmental engineering technology, hazardous materials information systems technology or environmental technology are provided by vocational schools, technical institutes and community colleges.
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) provides accreditation for associate degree programsA lot of private and public schools provide technical training and the type and quality of training varies significantly. Students may want to ask prospective employers for their school preferences.
Classes
Students typically study the following subjects:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Environmental risk assessment
- Air pollution engineering
- Principles of environmental engineering
- Pollution control
- Safe handling of hazardous materials
- Environmental regulations
Online Classes and Programs
Some schools offer online associate degrees in environmental engineering technology. Many students take on-campus courses in order to get hands-on training.
Employment Requirements
Most environmental engineering technicians have an associate degree in environmental engineering technology, hazardous materials information systems technology or environmental technology. Educational programs are provided by vocational schools, technical institutes and community colleges.
Employers usually don't require engineering technicians to be certified, however, individuals with certification may have a competitive advantage. The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies provides certification programs.
The major employment sectors for environmental engineering technicians are architectural, engineering and related services; remediation and other waste management services, water treatment and disposal; management, scientific and technical consulting services; and scientific research and development services.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
The answers to the following questions can help students select the appropriate school:
- Training - Does the program provide a substantial amount of hands-on training? Does the program include an externship?
- School's Reputation - Is the school recognized for its environmental engineering technology program?
- Job Placement - Does the school provide job placement services? Do employers of environmental engineering technicians visit the school to recruit students? Does the school provide job fairs?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school qualified to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology?
Environmental Engineering Technicians Job Description
Environmental engineering technicians help develop methods and devices used to prevent, control or fix environmental hazards. They survey the effects pollution has on the environment. Environmental engineering technicians also test, inspect, operate and decontaminate a variety of equipment used to control and remediate environmental pollution.
Shown below are some of their responsibilities:
- Inspect and maintain equipment related to recycling and air pollution
- Test samples in laboratories
- Inspect water and wastewater treatment systems
- Examine technical documents to ensure completeness and ensure they adhere to requirements
- Inspect facilities in order to monitor compliance with regulations governing various substances
- Arrange for the safe disposal of hazardous materials
- Conduct pollution surveys, collecting and analyzing samples
- Assist environmental engineers develop environmental remediation devices
Resources
- American Academy of Environmental Engineers
- American Society of Certified Engineering Technicians
- National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies
