Environmental Technicians are sometimes also referred to as Technologists. Environmental Technicians will work closely with Environmental Engineers to identify, prevent and control contamination of the environment.
Typical Duties
An Environmental Technician would typically work under the direction of an Environmental Scientist
Would monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution and anything else that would be harmful to the environment by performing laboratory and field tests
The Environmental Technician would then work closely with the scientists, environmental manager and engineers to solve complex environmental problems
Addresses environmental issues; providing information and recommending options and courses of action
Field sampling: air, water and soil
Solid, liquid and air treatment methods and waste minimization
Hazardous goods and waste handling methods
Determines characteristics or composition by conducting chemical, physical, laboratory, and field tests, using ph meter, chemicals, autoclaves, microscope, and analytical instrumentation, amongst other chemical laboratory equipment
Assesses water pollutants by collecting and analysing water samples from streams and lakes, raw, semi processed or processed water, and industrial waste water
Evaluates atmospheric pollutants by collecting and analysing samples of gases
Determines chemical composition and nature of land pollutants by collecting and analysing soil, silt, and mud
Prepares summaries and charts by gathering and testing samples; and recording the results
Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations
Completes research by conducting bacteriological and other tests
Ensure that environmental issues comply with legal and waste management requirements
Working Conditions
Environmental technicians typically perform their jobs in a variety of settings, including laboratories, offices and fieldwork
While performing fieldwork, environmental technicians should be able to remain standing or crouching for long periods of time
They must also carry, assemble and utilize equipment, which involves lights duty lifting and frequent movement
Environmental Technicians will also work in lab environments and may be exposed to toxic materials so must be trained and knowledgeable in safety measures
Educational Requirements
In order to get a job as an environmental technician, one would typically need at least a diploma from a technical college
Having a bachelor’s degree in a field such as environmental science is typically not a requirement, but is considered an asset and can give you an added advantage over other students when looking for jobs
Specific on the job training also generally required and mining related training
Personal Attributes
Enjoy working with math, science, computers, and the outdoors
Have a passion and love for the environment and nature
Be able to embrace new techniques and technologies
Be able to work under pressure
Have a good work ethic and be goal oriented
Compensation
Environmental Technician salaries vary tremendously depending on what region they are working in, what industry and in terms of how much experience they have
Other factors that will influence the salary of an Environmental Technician include what company they work for, whether the position is FIFO, and whether they are in a contract or permanent position
