Resource & Environmental Management
Resource and environmental managers act in a supervisory capacity for organizations and departments concerned with environmental issues. They may head projects designed to develop air pollution regulations, find solutions for oil spills, improve water quality, uncover sustainable ways to use natural resources or determine optimal use for various types of land. In addition to scientific and technical knowledge, resource and environmental managers must also possess strong management skills and be able to direct both individuals and teams of scientists.
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Description
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Resource and environmental managers supervise teams of environmental and conservation scientists. They coordinate research projects that help to establish environmental standards and policies, and assign scientists to specific duties within a development project. Resource and environmental managers also verify the accuracy of research by analyzing testing methods and procedures. They make sure that careful records of research are complied so feedback may be provided to government agencies and businesses on a variety of environmental issues. Resource and environmental managers are responsible for hiring and training staff and establishing budgets as well. In addition to supervising other scientists' research projects, some also conduct personal research.
Education
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Most resource and environmental managers begin as environmental scientists and advance to a managerial position after they have obtained the necessary experience. As a result, they must have at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related discipline. Many also pursue a master's or doctorate degree. Some colleges and universities offer programs in resource and environmental management, in which students receive both scientific and business management instruction. Typical courses include environmental science, natural resources and environmental policy, wildlife ecology, hydrology, geology, natural resource management, enterprise management, accounting and financial analysis. Some resource and environmental managers may earn a master's degree in business administration (MBA) as well.
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Working Conditions
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Resource and environmental managers usually work in offices. They may sometimes work in labs or out in the field to supervise research efforts. The position usually requires long hours, and many resource and environmental managers may work more than 40 hours a week. They may also face a great deal of stress as they work to meet research objectives on schedule and under budget.
Salary
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wages for natural sciences managers, including resource and environmental managers, were $112,800 as of May 2008. The middle 50 percent were paid between $85,910 and $151,400. Some employers also provide resource and environmental managers with additional benefits, such as performance bonuses or 401k options.
Employment Outlook
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for natural sciences managers, including resource and environmental managers, will increase by 15 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is a faster rate than the average for all occupations. Opportunities should be especially good for resource and environmental managers because the field is expected to expand as environmental issues become an even greater concern for the public and government. Candidates with good communication and business management skills, along with advanced environmental science knowledge, should enjoy the best prospects. Openings should also occur as experienced managers leave the field or retire.
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References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Engineering and Natural Sciences Managers
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Conservation Scientists and Foresters
- University of Hawaii, Manoa, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management: NREM Courses
- Photo Credit new growth 2 image by Jim Parkin from Fotolia.com
