Postings for environment-related jobs on TheLadders.com, a job search site for $100,000-a-year and more jobs, have increased by 25% over the past year.

 

Chief Sustainability Officer

Also known as environmental officer or chief green officer, individuals in these positions make sure their company is complying with government regulations and strategize profitable, environmentally friendly initiatives.

Environmental Engineer

Lots of environmental engineers work as consultants, helping their clients understand how to best decrease the environmental impact of their projects--things like minimizing pollution and protecting wildlife. They may be involved in the design of water purification plants and efficient heating systems. It's a great career choice--the demand for environmental engineers is projected to grow by 25% by 2016.

Environmental Lawyer

Many environmental lawyers receive a standard law degree and then choose to focus their work on issues involving the environment. They can represent environmental groups or, conversely, oil companies that need to comply with regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The need for services in environmental law is expected to grow in the next decade, making this area of law a good career choice.

Climatologist/Environmental Meteorologist

Climatologists study the weather. They may record rainfall totals and wind speeds, sometimes calculating how those variables have changed over the span of hundreds of years. Some do observation work in weather stations--either alone or as part of a team.

 Renewable Energy Manager

Renewable energy managers oversee projects that involve upgrades, maintenance and development of renewable energy systems like solar heating and wind generated electricity.

Environmental Specialist/Scientist

Environmental scientists study air, food and soil. Often they are looking for pollutants that can affect the health of the human and wildlife populations. A career in this field is often hands-on--much of the job is spent collecting and testing water and soil samples. Many environmental specialists begin their careers in the field, eventually moving to work in laboratories or offices. The higher paying jobs in this field are often with the U.S. government.

Senior Urban Planner

Urban planners determine the best ways to use land in a community and are involved in everything from zoning decisions to planning parks and roadways. Good social skills are essential since urban planners may interact frequently with government staff and may give public presentations.

Commercial/Industrial Designer

Industrial designers design many of the manufactured products in our world--from cups to carburetors. Designers who can create low-cost environmentally friendly products are in high demand.

Conservation Scientist

Conservation scientists work to understand how we can best use our natural resources without unduly harming the environment. In addition to working for government agencies, conservation scientists can be found working with farmers or ranchers teaching them how best to use their land.

Senior Hydrologist

A hydrologist is a water expert. They have a broad range of responsibilities, from studying ways to better treat wastewater to mapping out vital watersheds.

Six Figure Green Jobs