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Career overview · SOC 17-3025

Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Apply theory and principles of environmental engineering to modify, test, and operate equipment and devices used in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental problems, including waste treatment and site remediation, under the direction of engineering staff or scientists. May assist in the development of environmental remediation devices.

Also called: Air Quality Instrument Specialist · Engineer Technician · Environmental Engineering Assistant · Environmental Engineering Technician · Environmental Field Technician · Environmental Technician

Median pay (national)
$58,890
$39,670–$92,280 (10th–90th)
Employed (US)
12,500
BLS OEWS, May 2024
Outlook 2024–34
+1.2%
~1,100 openings/yr
Typical entry
Associate's degree

What the numbers say

Refit analysis ·Pay for environmental engineering technologists and technicians shows a broad range: the top 10% earn $92,280 versus $39,670 at the bottom 10% — 2.3x. The median of $58,890 leaves roughly 57% of headroom to the 90th percentile, which is where seniority, specialization, and the skills below tend to pay off.
Refit analysis ·Employment is projected to change +1.2% from 2024 to 2034 — slower than the 3% all-occupation average. Even so, BLS projects about 1,100 openings a year, mostly to replace workers who retire or change careers.
Refit analysis ·Where you work moves the number a lot. Across the 47 states with released data, Washington pays the most for this role (median $97,020, +65% vs the national median), while Louisiana sits lowest at $42,820 — a 127% spread for the same job title.
Refit analysis ·O*NET rates Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Critical Thinking as the highest-importance skills here — so a resume aimed at this role should lead with evidence of those, not a generic skills list.

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Top skills employers ask for

Ranked by O*NET importance for this occupation.

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Learning
  • Speaking
  • Science
  • Monitoring
  • Writing
  • Mathematics
  • Learning Strategies

What they actually do

Core O*NET tasks for this role.

  • Maintain project logbook records or computer program files.
  • Record laboratory or field data, including numerical data, test results, photographs, or summaries of visual observations.
  • Perform environmental quality work in field or office settings.
  • Produce environmental assessment reports, tabulating data and preparing charts, graphs, or sketches.
  • Collect and analyze pollution samples, such as air or ground water.
  • Decontaminate or test field equipment used to clean or test pollutants from soil, air, or water.
  • Prepare and package environmental samples for shipping or testing.
  • Receive, set up, test, or decontaminate equipment.
  • Review work plans to schedule activities.
  • Maintain process parameters and evaluate process anomalies.

Tools & technology

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Bentley MicroStation
  • C++
  • ESRI ArcGIS software
  • Python
  • SAS
  • The MathWorks MATLAB
  • Adobe PageMaker
  • Air dispersion modeling software
  • ANSYS simulation software
  • Computer aided design and drafting CADD software
  • Continuous emission management software
  • Database software
  • DHI Water and Environment MIKE SHE
  • Ecological risk assessment software

Knowledge areas

  • Engineering and Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • English Language
  • Chemistry
  • Mechanical
  • Physics
  • Public Safety and Security