How to Become an Environmental Technician

Environmental technicians are in charge of protecting indoor and outdoor resources. They collect water, gas, soil and other samples for field testing to detect pollution or other health risks. They also must monitor air quality and emissions standards, maintain environmental safety regulations, recommend cleanup procedures and operate environmental equipment for their research. Here's what you need to do to become an environmental technician.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Get at least an associate's degree in environmental technology. Take technical, oral and interpersonal communication courses to learn how to interpret technical materials and keep scientific report records. English courses are helpful for writing research and safety reports, while algebra and statistics courses can help you solve mathematical computations.

2. Sign up for additional courses in basic computer skills, chemistry, microbiology and environmental science. These courses will help you gain an understanding of chemical and environmental concepts in the field.

3. Train in the field by applying what you've learned in your coursework. Learn to work as part of a team in government agencies or in private industry. Get involved with consulting work, or train at an office or laboratory if you're more interested in research and design. Search for internships or part-time jobs at these places on the Internet or at the career services center of your school.

4. Go for the full-time job upon graduation. Your resume should showcase your ability to solve problems, work with mechanical equipment, communicate well with others and share knowledge of air quality and industrial waste regulations. Look for openings as a recycling technician, a safety technician, a solid waste technician or a hazardous materials technician.

5. Advance your degree if you want to eventually move into other positions. Most environmental engineering, toxicology or chemistry jobs require a bachelor's degree in environmental technology, environmental science or a related field.

Tips & Warnings

• Some environmental technicians work in comfortable office settings 5 days a week, 40 hours a day. Environmental technicians who specialize in hazardous materials or solid waste are likely to work outdoors in all types of weather. Those who work at industrial sites also work a 40-hour workweek, but may work longer hours in the event of deadlines or hazardous spills.