If you have a passion for the environment and preserving the relationship between the environment and humans then a career as an Environmental Consultant could be for you.
Career Overview
An Environmental Consultant works to assess the impact an organisation has on the environment. The aim of their work is to establish whether materials which organisations use are harmful to either humans or the environment. Environmental Consultants work with management to provide solutions in eliminating the employee’s exposure to harmful chemicals and substances.
Environmental Consultants spend most of their time putting together reports and giving feedback to management, making use of the communication and presentation skills.
Required School Subjects
You will need to have taken the following subjects at high school:
- English (Home Language or First Additional Language)
- Pure Mathematics
- Physical Science
Recommended subjects:
- Geography
Institution and APS
The following institutions are highly recommended for studies in Environmental Sciences:
- University of Cape Town (UCT) – Faculty Point Score (FPS) of 660
- University of Pretoria (UP) – APS of 34
- University of Witwatersrand (Wits) – APS of 40
Required Qualification/s
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement in either Environmental Sciences, Natural Resource Management, Conservation Biology, Marine Science or a related field. However, there are some organisations that require an Honours Degree as a minimum qualification.
Required Skills
You will need to have the following skills to succeed as an Environmental Consultant:
- Analytical Skills
- Problem-solving Skills
- Excellent Communication Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Accuracy
- Strong Organisational Skills
Where you can work
As an Environmental Consultant, you will be able to work in one of the following environments:
- Commercial Organiaations
- Government Departments
- Wildlife Organiaations
- Pressure and Conservation Groups
Working Hours
Due to being a consultant, hours vary with some consultants working flexi-time. Overtime can become a regular occurence, with working over the weekend being required to meet deadlines.
Expected Salary
Currently, Environmental Consultants earn between R109 000 to R398 000 per year in South Africa, with the average being R221 922.
What to expect
Here are a few things you can expect from a career as an Environmental Consultant:
- Most of their time is spent working indoors, with occasional field work being required
- Project related traveling may be required
- International countries offer room for growth within this career
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