How to Build a Career in Sustainability: 14 Jobs

Sustainability offers diverse career opportunities beyond STEM roles. Here's a guide to 14 jobs where you can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Careers in Sustainability

Many sustainability careers require a degree, particularly in fields like agronomy, environmental science, and engineering. However, business-related fields like marketing, consulting, and supply chain management also offer opportunities for green careers.

1. Agronomist

Agronomists improve agricultural systems by applying science to increase crop yields and manage environmental impact. They study soil and plant health, advise on crop rotation, and develop eco-friendly pest control strategies. Their work directly supports sustainable food production.

Education: Agricultural Science, Agronomy
Related: STEM Degree List: Majors and Subjects

2. Ecologist

Ecologists study ecosystems and how human activity affects them. Their research informs conservation efforts and helps protect biodiversity. They differ from agronomists, who work within agriculture, by focusing on preserving natural environments rather than managing crops.

Education: Ecology, Environmental Science.

3. Energy Engineer

Energy engineers design and develop renewable energy systems like solar and wind power. They create solutions that reduce dependency on fossil fuels by improving clean energy technologies. Unlike general electrical engineers, they specialise in renewable energy sources.

Education: Renewable Energy Engineering, Electrical Engineering.

4. Environmental Consultant

Environmental consultants advise businesses on how to reduce environmental risks. They perform assessments, analyse data, and provide recommendations to ensure compliance with regulations and minimise environmental impact. Unlike environmental engineers, who design systems, consultants focus on offering expert advice.

Education: Environmental Science, Engineering, Geology.

5. Environmental Engineer

Environmental engineers design systems to manage waste, control pollution, and protect public health. They work on practical projects like building water treatment systems or managing hazardous waste, taking a more hands-on role compared to environmental consultants.

Education: Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering.

6. Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists conduct research to solve environmental challenges. They analyse data from fieldwork and laboratory studies to understand issues like pollution and climate change. Their findings often guide policy decisions and public awareness campaigns.

Education: Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry.
Related: Environmental Science Degrees Online

7. ESG Analyst

ESG analysts evaluate companies based on their environmental, social, and governance practices. They review sustainability reports, analyse trends, and advise investors on responsible investment opportunities. Their work supports transparency and accountability in the financial sector.

Education: Finance, Business, Economics.

8. Marketing Manager (Green Marketing)

Marketing managers in sustainability create campaigns that highlight eco-friendly products and services. They build brand loyalty by showcasing a company's commitment to sustainable practices, helping businesses appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Education: Marketing, Digital Marketing.
Related: 5 Reasons to Get a Master’s in Marketing

9. Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and develop policies that promote sustainability. They examine regulations, assess the impact of current policies, and suggest improvements. Unlike consultants or engineers, their work directly shapes laws and regulations at governmental or organisational levels.

Education: Business, Engineering, Social Science.

10. Supply Chain Manager

Supply chain managers and logistics managers oversee the movement of goods, ensuring resources are used efficiently and sustainably. They implement strategies to reduce waste, manage supplier relationships, and streamline logistics. Their role involves balancing business needs with ethical sourcing and resource management.

Education: Business, Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Related: Logistics and Supply Chain Management Courses

11. Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability consultants help organisations adopt eco-friendly practices by conducting audits, identifying areas for improvement, and advising on how to reduce energy use or waste. They provide guidance on long-term strategies to transition to greener operations.

Education: Sustainability, Environmental Management, Business.

12. Sustainability Manager

Sustainability managers lead efforts to implement environmentally friendly initiatives within an organisation. They monitor progress, report on green practices, and ensure regulatory compliance. Unlike consultants, they work within a single organisation to drive internal change.

Education: Sustainability, Environmental Management, Business.

13. Town Planner

Town planners develop strategies for sustainable urban growth by managing land use and infrastructure development. Their work supports community planning, balancing population needs with environmental preservation. This role contrasts with urban designers, who focus on designing specific projects within those communities.

Education: Urban and Regional Planning, Architecture.
Related: How to Become a Town Planner in Australia

14. Urban Designer

Urban designers shape the layout of cities by planning parks, buildings, and public spaces that promote sustainability. Their designs integrate architecture and environmental concerns, ensuring urban areas are both functional and eco-friendly.

Education: Urban Design, Architecture.
Related: What Does an Urban Designer Do?

Is there Money in Sustainability?

Yes, sustainability is profitable. When businesses adopt sustainable practices, they see cost savings from improved efficiency. Energy conservation, waste reduction, and water-saving measures can significantly cut expenses.

Embracing eco-friendly practices can also enhance product quality, in turn elevating a brand's reputation and sales. Many investors seek out sustainable investments. Additionally, with an ever-tightening global environmental regulatory landscape, companies adopting these practices are better able to sidestep penalties and comply with emerging regulations.

Table 1. Average Salaries for Green Jobs

Occupation	Indicative Salary	Commercial and Resource Benefits
Agronomist	$90,000	Boosts yields, reduces costs via efficient crop management, improving agricultural profit margins.
Ecologist	$100,000	Enables better land use, reducing potential legal issues and associated costs tied to environmental impacts.
Energy Engineer	$95,000	Reduces energy costs and reliance on non-renewable energy sources, providing long-term savings.
Environmental Consultant	$95,000	Mitigates environmental risks, avoiding potential fines, litigation, and reputational damage.
Environmental Engineer	$100,000	Designs efficient systems reducing operational costs and environmental liabilities.
Environmental Scientist	$90,000	Informs policy to avoid regulatory fines and creates plans for resource use reduction, lowering expenses.
ESG Analyst	$105,000	Directs investments toward sustainable entities, reducing financial risk and capturing growth in green sectors.
Marketing Manager	$110,000	Enhances brand reputation, customer loyalty and can command higher prices for sustainable products/services.
Policy Analyst	$103,000	Shapes cost-effective and sustainable policies, driving government efficiency and effectiveness.
Supply Chain Manager	$140,000	Optimises resource use, reduces waste and costs in the supply chain, enhancing profitability.
Sustainability Consultant	$80,000	Streamlines operations for resource efficiency, reducing operational costs and enhancing resilience.
Sustainability Manager	$140,000	Implements sustainable practices, cutting costs and meeting customer demand for sustainability.
Town Planner	$90,000	Enhances land value, community appeal, attracting investment and fostering economic growth.
Urban Designer	$100,000	Designs liveable spaces, increasing property values and attracting investment and tourism.

Salary statistics sourced from Seek. Updated: 24 October 2024.

The expanding field of 'green jobs' underscores the financial advantages of eco-conscious choices. As the need for specialists in sustainability increases, so does the potential for earnings. High-paying roles in environmental consulting, renewable energy engineering, and environmental science affirm that indeed, there is significant financial opportunity.

How Do I Become a Sustainability Specialist?

Becoming a sustainability specialist normally begins a solid foundation in a relevant undergraduate field. This might be environmental science, engineering, business, or a similar discipline.

You need to align your educational path with yout interests. For example, if you're interested in renewables, a renewable energy course, such as a degree in electrical engineering, would be suitable. If corporate sustainability is your goal, a business-related degree could be more relevant.

To further capitalise on your education or switch careers, consider postgraduate sustainability courses. Degrees like a Master of Sustainable Leadership or Master of Sustainable Energy prepare you for leadership roles within the sustainability sector. These programs often cover strategic planning for sustainability, energy management, and policy, among other topics.

Obtaining practical experience is key. Look for opportunities to work on relevant projects, whether through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions. Through a combination of education, practical experience, and continued learning, you can build a rewarding sustainability career.