Environmental manager
What does an environmental manager do?
An environmental manager helps an organisation understand and reduce its impact on the environment. They build and run environmental management systems, set targets for things like waste, emissions and water use, and check that the organisation is meeting environmental laws and permits. When environmental incidents such as pollution or contamination occur, they lead response efforts and oversee remediation activities to minimise environmental impacts.
Environmental managers work across government departments and councils, mining and resources, construction, manufacturing and utilities, as well as environmental consultancies that advise other organisations. Some work in-house for a single organisation, while others move between client sites. The role mixes office work, site visits and stakeholder meetings.
Is a career in environmental management right for me?
A career in environmental management may suit you if you care about sustainability and enjoy solving practical problems within rules and budgets. You need to be organised, comfortable with data and reporting, and able to work with people from the site floor to senior leadership.
Other desirable skills and attributes of an environmental manager include:
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
The capacity to lead through effective decision-making, accountability, and support for others.
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.
How to become an environmental manager
Most environmental managers start with a bachelor degree in environmental science or a related field, then build experience in environmental, compliance or sustainability roles. The management side of the job, leading systems, audits and teams, usually comes with a few years of practical experience.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several paths into environmental management. Here is a common path to become an environmental manager:
- Complete a bachelor degree in environmental science, science or a related field.
- Build knowledge of environmental legislation, management systems and reporting.
- Gain experience in an environmental, compliance or sustainability role.
- Develop project management and leadership skills.
- Consider further study or professional recognition as you move into senior roles.
Professional recognition
There is no mandatory licence to work as an environmental manager. Some professionals seek recognition such as Certified Environmental Practitioner (CEnvP) through the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand after gaining experience, though this is optional and depends on the role.
How long does it take to become an environmental manager?
A bachelor degree in environmental science or science usually takes three years of full-time study, or longer if you study part-time. UniSQ's Bachelor of Environmental Science includes on-campus residential schools, so check the delivery details for the major you choose.
Moving into a management role usually takes a few more years of experience. Many environmental managers start in a technical, compliance or officer role, then take on responsibility for systems, audits and teams over time.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Build the scientific and practical foundation for an environmental management career with a UniSQ environmental science degree, where you can study ecology, climate, conservation and natural resource management.
Responsibilities and work settings
Developing and maintaining environmental management systems and policies.
Checking compliance with environmental legislation and permits.
Monitoring and reporting on waste, emissions and pollution.
Advising leadership on sustainability and environmental risk.
Leading audits, clean-up programs and liaison with regulators.
Accounting, consulting and professional services firms
Construction and infrastructure companies
Engineering consultancies
Environmental and sustainability organisations
Government agencies, departments and councils
Manufacturing and industrial companies
Mining and resources companies
Research institutes and research centres
Environmental manager FAQs
Related careers
Stay in touch
UniSQ is collecting the personal information on this form for support for students and prospective students and for marketing purposes. By submitting this form, you consent to the terms of UniSQ's marketing privacy statement. Further information concerning privacy is available.
Welcome aboard! We've got your details.
Something doesn't look right. Try that one again.