Becoming an environmental education officer is a great career choice if you are passionate about the environment and want to have a part in education others in matters that concern its well being.
Below we've outlined what you'll need to succeed in this profession. We've also included helpful supplementary information, such as job description, job duties, salary expectations, a list of possible employers and much more!
Education Needed to Become an Environmental Education Officer
To get an entry-level job as an environmental education officer, you need to begin by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science, Geology, Biology or a closely related field such as Botany or Environmental Engineering. A degree in a field such as Education or Communications can also be of great benefit if you hope to become an environmental education officer.
Please Note: Education and experience requirements can vary by employer
General Job Description
Environmental education officers are responsible for creating awareness of environmental issues, as well as promoting conservation and sustainability. They also deliver presentations in schools, or host groups at sites such as nature reserves.
Typical Job Duties
• Manage the budgets of educational projects and programs
• Evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs and prepare reports for submission to funding bodies
• Generate income for projects through fundraising activities
• Organize and coordinate events to raise awareness of environmental issues
• Investigate potential external sources of funding, and prepare any necessary funding request applications
• Respond to requests for information on educational issues from teachers, educationalists and colleagues
• Give talks in schools or to community groups on environmental issues
• Research and develop educational programs and resources for schools, adults, families, community groups or visitors to sites of special environmental interest
Who Employs Environmental Education Officers?
There are many types of organizations that are interested in acquiring and retaining individuals with the skills, knowledge and competencies that environmental education officers have; examples include:
• Colleges and universities
• Community outreach organizations
• Conservation organizations
• Environmental learning centres
• Federal, provincial/state and municipal government departments
• Non-profit organizations
Skills Needed to Be Successful
• Must have a commitment to and enthusiasm for environmental conservation and sustainable development
• The ability to communicate effectively in presentations, workshops and guided walks
• The ability to relate to people of all ages
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• The ability to take initiative
• Computer skills are usually considered an asset
• The ability to speak multiple languages is considered an asset
Gaining Relevant Career Experience
Securing an internship or work opportunity with a conservation organization, environmental learning centre or an environmental interest group while you’re in university or college is a great way to gain relevant career experience in the field of environmental conservation and education. It will also be an incredible asset for your resume.
To find an internship or work opportunity, speak with your school’s career resource office, professors or other faculty members.
Similar Careers in Our Database
Listed below are occupations that are similar in nature to 'environmental education officer', as they may involve many of the same skills, competencies and responsibilities.
• Environmental Education Assistant
• Environmental Impact Assessment Specialist
• Environmental Policy Officer
References
Please use the references below to find more information on the various aspects of a career as an environmental education officer.
Occupations in Alberta: “Ecologist.” (March 31, 2019). ALIS website - Alberta Learning Information Service. Retrieved November 14, 2019.
Job Profile: “Environmental education officer.” AGCAS editors (November, 2018). Prospects website. Retrieved November 14, 2019.
Career Profiles: “Environmental Communications Officer.” (May 27, 2017). ECO Canada website. Retrieved November 14, 2019.
Environmental Education Officer Jobs
Our job board below has "Environmental Education Officer" postings in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.
Scholarships for Becoming an Environmental Education Officer
Scholarships listed for majors that apply to becoming an environmental education officer can be found on the following pages:
• Environmental Science Scholarships
Success Tip: Be sure to apply for any scholarships that you even barely qualify for, as there are millions of dollars of scholarships that go unused every year due to a lack of applicants!
Applicable Majors
Studying one of the university majors listed below is an excellent starting point for getting started in this profession.
