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EnergyTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.Green JobOccupation aligned to O*NET green economy classifications.

Environmental Engineering Technician

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.

Annual openings

40

BLS median wage

$60,740

Typical education

Associate's degree

10-year growth

+9%

Career requirements

What does this career require?

The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.

Typical education

Associate's degree

Credential requirement

No specific credential listed yet

Work experience

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required. However, you could also become an apprentice for this role after having gained experience in a lower-level role.

Work-based learning

You can begin in a position that does not require experience, such as a tree trimmer in the Utilities pathways, and work your way up to a Technician role through an apprenticeship.

Employer competency information

  • Refer above to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities information. Effective communication, such as writing reports and presenting ideas, is important to communicate research and findings.
Environmental Technicians play a key role in the production of the energy we need to power our lives in a way that protects our environment and other natural resources.
The enhancement and use of technology to monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the energy industry is growing area of expertise with employers often struggling to find this expertise in Colorado.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Maintain project logbook records or computer program files.
  2. Record laboratory or field data, including numerical data, test results, photographs, or summaries of visual observations.
  3. Perform environmental quality work in field or office settings.
  4. Produce environmental assessment reports, tabulating data and preparing charts, graphs, or sketches.
  5. Collect and analyze pollution samples, such as air or ground water.
  6. Decontaminate or test field equipment used to clean or test pollutants from soil, air, or water.