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Environmental Engineeringswitch ▾

NJIT Major

Environmental Engineering

Protecting air, water, and land while keeping industry and cities running sustainably.

Core careers

Air Quality Specialist

Companies

HoneywellExxonMobilAECOM

Career Description

An air quality specialist monitors, analyzes, and manages air pollution levels to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and protect public health. They assess emission sources, conduct field measurements, and use advanced modeling tools to predict air quality trends. These professionals collaborate with government agencies, industries, and environmental organizations to implement pollution control measures and develop strategies to mitigate air quality issues. Their work often involves preparing reports, advising on environmental policies, and ensuring adherence to standards set by organizations like the EPA.

Example Projects

  • Pollutant Monitoring ProgramDesigns a city-wide air quality monitoring system using IoT sensors to track PM2.5 and CO2 levels.
  • Emission Reduction StrategyDevelops a plan to reduce industrial emissions by 20% through improved filtration and renewable energy adoption.
  • Regulatory Compliance AssessmentEvaluates air quality compliance for a manufacturing plant, creating a report for regulatory bodies.

Relevant Skills

  • Data Analysis and Visualization
  • Knowledge of Environmental Regulations
  • Air Pollution Control Technologies

Environmental Consultant

Companies

Career Description

An environmental consultant provides expert advice to organizations on how to manage their environmental impact, comply with regulations, and implement sustainable practices. They assess environmental risks, conduct audits, and develop strategies for pollution control, waste management, and resource conservation. Consultants often work with industries, governments, and non-profits on projects like environmental impact assessments, remediation planning, and sustainability initiatives. Their role combines technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, and strategic planning to help clients achieve their environmental and business goals.

Example Projects

  • Site Assessment and RemediationConducts an environmental site assessment for a property redevelopment, identifying contamination and overseeing remediation.
  • Compliance AuditPerforms an audit to ensure a manufacturing facility complied with EPA regulations.
  • Waste Management PlanDesigns a waste reduction strategy for a corporation, cutting landfill contributions by 40%.

Relevant Skills

  • Environmental Impact Assessment
  • Regulatory Compliance Knowledge
  • Stakeholder Communication

Environmental Scientist

Companies

AECOMWorld Wildlife FundU.S. EPA

Career Description

An environmental scientist studies the natural environment to identify, analyze, and develop solutions for environmental challenges such as pollution, climate change, and resource depletion. They collect and interpret data on air, water, and soil quality, assess the impact of human activities, and provide recommendations for mitigating environmental harm. Environmental scientists often work on projects related to conservation, policy development, and sustainable resource management. They collaborate with governments, industries, and non- profits to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote practices that protect ecosystems and public health.

Example Projects

  • Soil TestingAssess soil contamination levels and advise on land reclamation or agricultural practices.
  • Sustainability AuditsWork with organizations to measure and improve their environmental performance.
  • Pollution ControlDevelop strategies to reduce air and water pollution from industrial processes.

Relevant Skills

  • Data Analysis and Interpretation
  • Knowledge of Environmental Regulations
  • Knowledge of Fieldwork and Sampling Techniques

Sustainability Engineer

Companies

HoneywellLJA EngineeringAECOM

Career Description

A sustainability engineer designs and implements solutions to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices across industries. They focus on optimizing resource use, minimizing waste, and incorporating renewable energy and eco-friendly materials into projects. Sustainability engineers often conduct energy audits, assess environmental impacts, and develop strategies to achieve goals such as carbon neutrality or zero waste. They collaborate with architects, urban planners, and corporate teams to integrate sustainability into manufacturing, construction, and operational processes. Their work helps organizations comply with environmental regulations, improve efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Example Projects

  • Sustainable Manufacturing ProcessDesigns a closed-loop water recycling system for a textile factory, reducing water waste by 50%.
  • Renewable Energy IntegrationIntegrates solar panels into a manufacturing facility, covering 30% of its energy needs.
  • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)Conducts an LCA for a consumer product to identify and mitigate its environmental impact.

Relevant Skills

  • Renewable Energy Systems Design
  • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Expertise
  • Project Management

Also open to this major

Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Companies

MedtronicJohnson & JohnsonPfizer

Career Description

A Regulatory Affairs Specialist ensures that products, such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals, comply with regulatory standards and laws throughout their development, manufacturing, and distribution. They prepare and submit documentation for regulatory approvals, monitor changes in regulations, and provide guidance to cross-functional teams to meet compliance requirements. This role involves working with agencies like the FDA, EPA, or international regulatory bodies to secure product approvals and maintain ongoing compliance. Regulatory Affairs Specialists play a critical role in bringing safe and effective products to market while minimizing legal and regulatory risks.

Example Projects

  • Regulatory SubmissionsPrepare and submit dossiers for FDA 510(k) or PMA approvals for medical devices.
  • Product Labeling ComplianceEnsure labels for pharmaceuticals or chemicals meet regional regulatory requirements.
  • Clinical Trial ApprovalsManage documentation and approvals for clinical trials of new medical devices or drugs.

Relevant Skills

  • Knowledge of Regulatory Standards
  • Attention to Detail for Preparing Documentation and Regulatory Submissions and Audits
  • Communication and Collaboration Skills

Petroleum Engineer

Companies

ExxonMobilConocoPhillipsChevron

Career Description

A Petroleum Engineer is responsible for designing and overseeing the extraction and production of oil and gas from the earth. They design facilities to extract oil and gas from underground reserves, develop plans for drilling and product treatment, analyze data to improve production and reservoir recovery, ensure equipment maintenance, and more. They collaborate with scientists and often travel to remote locations to explore oil and gas reserves as needed.

Example Projects

  • Reservoir EngineeringModeling and simulating a complex reservoir to predict production decline and optimize well placement.
  • Drilling EngineeringDesigning a directional drilling trajectory to reach multiple reservoir zones with a single well.
  • Production EngineeringDesigning artificial lift systems for low-pressure wells to maintain production from wells with declining reservoir pressure.

Relevant Skills

  • Problem-Solving
  • Project Management
  • Communication Abilities

Product Development Engineer

Companies

Procter & GambleHoneywellExxonMobil

Career Description

A Product Development Engineer is responsible for developing, designing, and optimizing new chemical products across various industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and beverage, personal care, and more. They conduct research, test performance, design prototypes, and collaborate with teams to ensure that the product meets specified requirements, market demands, and quality standards. Key roles include concept generation, formulation development, prototype creation, manufacturing optimization, performance testing, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Example Projects

  • Consumer Product DevelopmentDeveloping cosmetic formulations, detergents, or food additives.
  • Energy and SustainabilityDeveloping renewable energy storage, optimizing fuel cell materials for energy production, or designing a carbon capture from industrial processes.
  • HealthcareDesigning drug delivery systems or long-lasting medical implants.

Relevant Skills

  • Project Management
  • Analytical & Problem-Solving
  • Communication & Collaboration

Disaster Mitigation Engineer

Companies

HoneywellTetra TechWitt O'Brien's

Career Description

A Disaster Mitigation Engineer is responsible for designing and planning infrastructure to withstand the impacts of natural disasters (or prevent natural disaster impacts) or the post-assessment of natural disaster impacts and subsequent recovery efforts and response. They assess the damage of natural disasters, develop plans to reduce impact, design or rebuild damaged infrastructure, and plan for long-term disaster resilience. Disaster mitigation includes considering known environmental hazards during land planning and relocating or elevating structures when necessary. Their primary roles include risk assessment, mitigation planning, designing structural enhancements, and assessing the susceptibility of existing structures to natural disasters.

Example Projects

  • Earthquake MitigationDesigning earthquake-resistant features for essential facilities like power plants and hospitals.
  • Hurricane MitigationRebuilding natural dunes to protect shorelines from storm surge.
  • Wildfire MitigationCreating firebreaks to contain wildfire spread or utilizing building materials less susceptible to ignition.

Relevant Skills

  • Earth Science Knowledge
  • Analytical & Problem-Solving
  • Communication

Water Resources Engineer

Companies

Kimley-HornCDM SmithHDR

Career Description

A Water Resources Engineer is responsible for the design and maintenance of water supply systems and sewage treatment plans in urban and rural areas. They design systems such as dams, reservoirs, canals, and pipelines, conduct field tests, calculate the impact of dams and reservoirs, and aim to reduce waterborne diseases. Water Resources Engineers develop plans for controlling water resources to prevent flooding in cities, treat water reintroduced into a city's water supply, control groundwater flow to prevent pollution into nearby bodies of water, create stormwater management systems, and more.

Example Projects

  • Irrigation System DevelopmentDesigning efficient irrigation canals and systems for agricultural areas; incorporating technologies like drip irrigation to minimize water waste.
  • Urban Stormwater ManagementImplementing green infrastructure practices like rain gardens to manage stormwater runoff and improve water quality.
  • Water Reuse and Reclamation ProjectDesigning a system to treat wastewater for reuse in industrial processes or irrigation.

Relevant Skills

  • Project Management
  • Scientific Knowledge of Water Systems
  • Communication & Collaboration

Coastal Engineer

Companies

Great Lakes Dredge & DockMoffatt & NicholRoyal Caribbean Group

Career Description

A coastal engineer designs, analyzes, and manages projects that address challenges in coastal and marine environments, including erosion, flooding, and habitat preservation. They work on developing infrastructure such as seawalls, breakwaters, and ports while ensuring minimal environmental impact and long-term sustainability. Coastal engineers use advanced modeling tools to predict wave behavior, sediment transport, and storm surge effects, creating solutions that protect shorelines, enhance navigation, and support economic activities. Their role often involves collaborating with environmental scientists, government agencies, and construction teams to balance technical, ecological, and regulatory considerations.

Example Projects

  • Harbor and Port DevelopmentPlan and design harbors, jetties, and breakwaters to improve navigation and accommodate shipping needs.
  • Marine Habitat RestorationCollaborate on projects to restore coral reefs, mangroves, or seagrass beds for ecological benefits.
  • Flood Risk AssessmentModel storm surge impacts and create flood mitigation strategies for vulnerable coastal communities.

Relevant Skills

  • Structural Design Knowledge
  • Hydrodynamic and Sediment Modeling Experience
  • Environmental and Regulatory Awareness

Geotechnical Engineer

Companies

CDM SmithKimley-HornExxonMobil

Career Description

A geotechnical engineer specializes in analyzing soil, rock, and subsurface conditions to design and construct safe and sustainable structures. They assess ground stability and strength to determine the suitability of sites for construction projects like buildings, bridges, tunnels, and dams. Geotechnical engineers perform site investigations, collect and test soil and rock samples, and use their findings to guide foundation design, slope stability analysis, and excavation plans. They also address potential risks, such as soil erosion, landslides, or seismic activity, ensuring projects are built to withstand environmental challenges.

Example Projects

  • Seismic Risk AssessmentEvaluate the impact of earthquakes on infrastructure and suggest design modifications for safety.
  • Coastal and Offshore ProjectsConduct geotechnical studies for offshore wind turbines, pipelines, or coastal erosion protection structures.
  • Environmental RemediationAssess contaminated sites and recommend safe excavation and treatment strategies for the soil.

Relevant Skills

  • Knowledge on Soil and Rock Mechanics
  • Field and Laboratory Testing Skills
  • Problem Solving

Energy Systems Engineer

Companies

NextEra EnergyHDRJacobs

Career Description

An energy systems engineer designs, optimizes, and manages systems for generating, distributing, and utilizing energy efficiently and sustainably. They work with various energy sources, including fossil fuels, renewable energy, and nuclear power, to meet energy demands while minimizing environmental impact. Their responsibilities often involve conducting energy audits, developing innovative energy solutions, and integrating advanced technologies like smart grids and energy storage systems. Energy systems engineers collaborate with stakeholders to ensure energy systems are reliable, cost-effective, and aligned with sustainability goals. Their expertise is applied in industries such as utilities, manufacturing, construction, and renewable energy development.

Example Projects

  • Renewable Energy IntegrationDesign and implement solar and wind energy systems for a commercial building to reduce reliance on grid electricity.
  • Battery Storage System DesignDevelop energy storage systems to support renewable energy integration and grid stability.
  • Hydropower System OptimizationAnalyze and upgrade existing hydropower plants to improve efficiency and output.

Relevant Skills

  • Energy Systems Analysis and Modeling
  • Sustainability and Renewable Energy Knowledge
  • Problem-Solving and Project Management

HVAC Engineer

Companies

SpaceXJohnson ControlsHoneywell

Career Description

An HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) engineer designs, installs, and maintains systems that regulate indoor air quality, temperature, and humidity for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Their work involves selecting appropriate equipment, creating system layouts, and ensuring compliance with energy efficiency and safety standards. HVAC engineers analyze heat loads, optimize system performance, and integrate sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources. They collaborate with architects, construction teams, and mechanical engineers to ensure seamless integration of HVAC systems into building designs, prioritizing occupant comfort and energy efficiency.

Example Projects

  • System Design for New ConstructionDesign and specify HVAC systems for a new office building, including ductwork layouts and equipment selection.
  • Green Building ProjectsDesign HVAC systems for LEED-certified buildings, incorporating renewable energy solutions like solar or geothermal systems.
  • Air Quality ImprovementImplement filtration systems to improve indoor air quality in schools or hospitals.

Relevant Skills

  • System Design and Thermal Analysis
  • Knowledge of Energy Efficiency Standards
  • Problem-Solving and Troubleshooting Skills

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