Consultor Ambiental

Consultor Ambiental evaluate the environmental impacts of technologies, processes, works, and activities, in order to propose preventive or corrective measures that can preserve or improve the environment. An Environmental Consultant typically holds a Bachelor's or Master's degree in biology, ecology, chemistry, environmental science, geology, environmental management, physical oceanography, or other related fields. Some states may require licensing for Environmental Consultants. Some companies may require certification from the National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) or the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH). Additional relevant certifications include:
- Certified Environmental Manager (CEM)
- Certified Professional Environmental Auditor (CPEA)
- Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

Workplace and Environment

Environmental Consultants work for private consulting firms, government agencies, and businesses and industries. They may work in offices, laboratories, and in the field. Environmental Consultants must be able to communicate effectively with engineers, scientists, government officials, and regulators, and with the general public. They typically work full time. Travel may be required.

Career Growth

With experience, Environmental Consultants may advance to senior consultant or project manager positions. They may also become certified as an Environmental Professional (EP) by the National Association of Environmental Professionals. Some Environmental Consultants also pursue a law degree and specialize in environmental law.

Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental management, or a related field
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Proficient in environmental regulations and standards
• Knowledge of environmental assessment and monitoring techniques
• Experience with environmental modeling and simulation software
Professional certification in environmental management or consulting

Day-to-Day

An Environmental Consultant's day-to-day responsibilities may include:

• Conducting environmental assessments and audits
• Developing and implementing environmental management plans
• Monitoring and evaluating environmental performance
• Providing guidance on environmental regulations and compliance
• Preparing reports and presentations on environmental issues
• Interacting with clients, government agencies, and the public

Projects

Environmental Consultants may work on a variety of projects, including:

• Environmental impact assessments
• Environmental audits
• Environmental management plans
• Site remediation plans
• Air quality monitoring and permitting
• Water quality monitoring and permitting
• Waste management plans
• Energy efficiency assessments
• Climate change mitigation and adaptation plans

Challenges

Environmental Consultants face a number of challenges, including:

• The need to stay up-to-date on environmental regulations and standards
• The need to work with clients who have different priorities and interests
• The need to balance environmental protection with economic development
• The need to communicate complex technical information to non-technical audiences

Personal Growth

Environmental Consulting can provide opportunities for personal growth in a number of areas, including:

• Technical skills
• Communication skills
• Leadership skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Project management skills
• Interpersonal skills

Online Courses

Online courses can provide a flexible and affordable way to learn about environmental consulting. Online courses can cover a wide range of topics, including environmental assessment, environmental management, and environmental regulations. Online courses can also help students develop the skills they need to succeed in the field, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. While online courses alone may not be enough to qualify someone for a career as an Environmental Consultant, they can be a valuable tool for students who are interested in learning more about the field.

Self-Guided Projects

Students who are interested in becoming Environmental Consultants can complete a number of self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for the field. These projects can include:

• Conducting an environmental assessment of a local site
• Developing an environmental management plan for a small business
• Monitoring and evaluating the environmental performance of a local organization
• Writing a report on a current environmental issue