How to become an environmental technician

How to become an Environmental Technician

Becoming an environmental technician involves a combination of education, practical experience, and potentially obtaining relevant certifications. Here's a general guide to help you pursue a career as an environmental technician:

• Education: Consider pursuing post-secondary education in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. An associate or bachelor's degree is often preferred by employers. Look for programs that include coursework in environmental monitoring, sampling techniques, and laboratory analysis.
• Internships and Entry-Level Positions: Seek internships or entry-level positions to gain hands-on experience. Many environmental technicians start their careers by working as interns or in assistant roles where they assist in fieldwork, sample collection, and laboratory analysis.
• Certifications: While not always required, obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your qualifications. For example, certifications from the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP) or the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) may be beneficial (see below).
• Environmental Monitoring Training: Participate in training programs that focus on environmental monitoring techniques. This may include courses on sample collection, data analysis, and the use of monitoring equipment.
• Build a Strong Resume: Highlight your education, relevant coursework, skills, and any internship or work experience on your resume. Tailor your resume to emphasize how your qualifications align with the specific requirements of environmental technician positions.
• Apply for Positions: Search for job openings for environmental technician positions and apply to those that align with your skills and qualifications. Consider applying to environmental consulting firms, government agencies, and private companies involved in environmental monitoring.

Certifications
Obtaining certifications can enhance the credentials of environmental technicians and demonstrate their proficiency in specific areas.

• National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP) - Environmental Professional (EP): The EP certification is offered by NREP and is designed for professionals working in environmental fields. It covers various aspects of environmental management, including regulations, site assessments, and risk assessments.
• National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) - Environmental Technology: NICET offers certification in Environmental Technology, which covers areas such as air sampling and analysis, water quality testing, and hazardous materials management. Certification levels vary based on experience and education.
• Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Certification: Environmental technicians working with hazardous materials or in emergency response situations may benefit from HAZWOPER certification. This certification, governed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is often required for those involved in handling hazardous waste.
• American Chemical Society (ACS) - Environmental Chemistry Certification: ACS offers a certification in Environmental Chemistry, which may be valuable for environmental technicians involved in chemical analysis and monitoring. This certification demonstrates proficiency in the field of environmental chemistry.
• Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Certification: Environmental technicians working in asbestos-related projects, such as inspections and abatement, may need AHERA certification. This certification ensures compliance with federal regulations related to asbestos.
• Environmental Monitoring Technician Certification: Some organizations, such as the Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP), offer certifications specifically for environmental monitoring technicians. These certifications may cover areas like water quality monitoring, air quality monitoring, and sampling techniques.
• National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) Certification: For environmental technicians involved in radon measurement and mitigation, NRPP certification is relevant. This certification ensures adherence to standards for radon testing and mitigation activities.
• International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) - Arborist Certification: Environmental technicians involved in tree and vegetation management may benefit from ISA Arborist Certification. This certification demonstrates expertise in the care and management of trees and landscapes.
• Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Stormwater Inspector (CESSWI): Offered by EnviroCert International, the CESSWI certification is relevant for environmental technicians involved in erosion control and stormwater management. It focuses on best practices for preventing soil erosion and managing stormwater runoff.
• Geographic Information System (GIS) Certification: While not specific to environmental technicians, GIS certification can be valuable for those involved in spatial analysis and mapping related to environmental monitoring. Organizations like the GIS Certification Institute offer GIS Professional (GISP) certification.