Every year, professions aimed at protecting and preserving the environment are becoming more and more popular. Find out more about the best "environmental" professions to work abroad in 2024

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Environmental professions are great for people who are committed to preserving the environment. These professions focus on using fewer natural resources and performing actions that benefit the planet. By researching the different types of green jobs, you can see if working in renewable energy, environmental management, or energy efficiency is right for you.

The demand for environmental professions is growing rapidly as extreme weather events and ecosystem damage become more frequent. Attention to the health of the planet is growing, which stimulates business investment in green jobs. According to a 2023 report by Unioncamere, the trend toward energy conservation and environmental sustainability will create 2.4 to 2.6 million new jobs by 2026.

In this article, we'll take a look at what green jobs are and list the best jobs in this field.

What are green jobs?

Green jobs are professions focused on preserving or restoring environmental quality. They include creating goods or providing services that benefit nature and reduce the use of resources. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics defines green jobs as those that reduce the consumption of natural resources and promote environmental sustainability. Such positions may also include responsibilities aimed at greening the company's production processes. This is often achieved by reducing the use of resources, which makes production more environmentally friendly and responsible to nature.

The main features of environmental professions include the following:

1. Minimization of pollution and waste;

2. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions;

3. Promoting adaptation to climate change;

4. Protection or restoration of various ecosystems;

5. Improving the efficiency of energy and raw materials use;

6. Reducing and eliminating pollution;

7. Recycling and reuse of materials;

8. Promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency;

9. Conservation of natural resources;

10. Informing the public about environmental issues.

Most green jobs can be found in manufacturing, research and development, agriculture and services, as well as in any other industry that works to preserve and restore environmental quality. These jobs are also common in organizations that are involved in renewable energy production, energy efficiency, or environmental management.

1. Environmental Protection Technician

Average salary: $50,630 per year

Main responsibilities: Environmental technicians monitor the state of nature and look for ways to reduce pollution. Their work includes collecting and analyzing soil samples, conducting research on the impact of human activity on the environment, and cleaning up contaminated areas. They participate in scientific tests and field studies to assess the environmental damage caused by natural disasters such as forest fires. Their work makes it possible to protect and restore natural resources more effectively.

2. Specialist in agriculture

Average salary: $55,289 per year

Main responsibilities: Agricultural specialists research different crops and farming methods to implement sustainable practices. They develop organic farming programs, set up research centers, conduct experimental projects, and ensure that sanitary standards are met on farms. Their work includes training others in the agricultural field and supporting land conservation efforts. Specialists may work at universities or on research projects to help implement advanced environmental technologies in agriculture.

3. Solar energy specialist

Average salary: $61,888 per year

Main responsibilities: Solar energy specialists assemble, install, and maintain solar panel systems on homes and other structures, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. They configure solar panels, determine optimal locations, ensure the structural integrity of installations, and verify compliance with local, state, and federal building codes. In addition, they repair solar panels on both residential and commercial properties, ensuring their efficient operation and longevity.

4. Wind turbine technician

Average salary: $68,523 per year

Main responsibilities: Wind turbine technicians install, repair, operate, and maintain wind turbines that generate renewable energy. They diagnose problems related to wind turbines, help ensure the physical integrity of wind turbines, and conduct inspections. They can also troubleshoot the electrical, mechanical and hydraulic components that make up a wind turbine.

5. Solar panel installer

Average salary: $67,213 per year

Main responsibilities: Solar panel installers specialize in working with solar panels. They assemble modules, apply sealant, determine the optimal placement of panels, and identify possible threats to the system. In addition, installers advise customers on the most efficient type of solar panels for specific needs, and measure, cut, and assemble support structures for large installations. Their work ensures the reliable and efficient operation of solar systems, contributing to the transition to renewable energy sources.

6. Energy consultant

Average salary: $75,675 per year

Main responsibilities: Energy consultants offer energy services and help customers with a variety of energy needs. They can help clients choose the right energy-efficient product for their needs and preferences, plan the installation of energy equipment, and educate clients about available energy products and their benefits. They also conduct energy audits of homes and businesses, analyze their current energy consumption and find ways to make buildings more energy efficient.

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7. Water Resources Engineer

Average salary: $65,272 per year

Main responsibilities: A water resources engineer monitors the water supply and use in a particular community. Their tasks include testing water samples to ensure that it is safe for human consumption, as well as implementing methods to treat contaminated water. The engineer also implements water conservation strategies and promotes the sustainable use of water resources. Their work is essential to maintaining community health and protecting the environment by ensuring an uninterrupted and safe water supply.

8. Environmental specialist

Average salary: $56,316 per year

Main responsibilities: Environmental specialists monitor human impact on the environment, identify environmental hazards, and suggest ways to reduce them. They conduct field research, compile reports on hazardous materials and sites, and implement training programs for employees aimed at integrating sustainable practices. They also conduct inspections to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations. Their work contributes to improving environmental sustainability and raising environmental awareness in enterprises.

9. Energy consultant

Average salary: $82,009 per year

Main responsibilities: Energy consultants help clients install renewable energy systems such as solar panels. They select the best solutions for energy supply, taking into account environmental aspects. Consultants collect energy audit reports, monitor renewable energy trends, and provide clients with recommendations based on their needs and preferences. Their work is aimed at reducing environmental impact by providing efficient energy solutions.

10. Nuclear engineer

Average salary: $93,838 per year

Main responsibilities: Nuclear engineers research and develop projects that use nuclear energy and radiation. Their typical duties may include designing and building nuclear equipment such as radiation shielding and reactor cores, overseeing the operation of nuclear power plants, and creating operating instructions for nuclear equipment. They may also manage maintenance activities at a nuclear power plant to ensure that they meet all applicable safety standards and oversee the safe disposal of nuclear waste.

11. Power engineer

Average salary: $90,094 per year

Main responsibilities: Energy engineers create, develop, and design energy-related programs or projects to reduce energy costs and use and improve overall energy efficiency. Their responsibilities may include conducting energy audits, identifying areas for energy conservation and cost reduction, and estimating energy consumption. They may also inspect energy systems to ensure that they are working properly and meet energy standards, and help clients learn more about available sustainable energy systems.

12. Environmental Health and Safety Specialist

Average salary: $103,761 per year

Main responsibilities: Environmental health and safety specialists monitor the company's condition, developing strategies to reduce potential environmental risks and training employees on best environmental practices. They compile reports on the health and safety situation in their market and give presentations on existing safety hazards and how to avoid them. They may also inspect buildings and other physical structures and report pest infestations, toxic chemical leaks, disease outbreaks, or other incidents.

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