Green Job Series: Careers in Geothermal Energy [Third Installment]

To reach hot water far below the earth's surface, geothermal plants use wells that descend thousands of feet into underground reservoirs. Drilling these wells requires specialized machinery and workers. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key drilling occupations in geothermal energy

Drilling Occupations

Drilling crews first drill exploratory wells to confirm the locations of underground reservoirs. After discovering the best locations, they use a derrick, a large, metal framed crane hanging over the main well, to guide drilling equipment. Because drilling equipment is so heavy, derricks are necessary to control and maneuver drilling bits, pipes, and other equipment.

Drilling fluid mixtures that help to break up the rock are pumped into the well through a pipe connected to the drill bit. The pipe also carries debris and mud out of the well and to the surface, where it can be disposed of. As the well gets deeper, new pipe sections are connected to those already in the ground, and the drill continues until it taps the underground reservoir.

Job Duties

Derrick operators control and inspect drilling derricks. These workers can raise or lower the drill bits and pipes into or out of the well. Derrick operators are also responsible for maintaining their machinery and ensuring that it operates correctly.

Rotary driller operators control the drill itself. They determine a drill's pressure and speed as it penetrates rock. To keep drill sites safe, rotary driller operators use gauges that monitor drill pump pressure and other data, such as how much drill mud and debris are being pumped from the well. Rotary drill operators also keep records of where they've drilled and how many layers of rock they've penetrated.

Roustabouts do much of the basic labor on drilling sites. They clean equipment and keep work areas free of the debris and drilling mud that the drill pipes carry up from the wells. Roustabouts also install new pipe sections that allow the drill to reach deeper underground.

In addition to the workers who drill the wells, drilling crews might include some support personnel, such as workers who transport the drilling rigs and fuel to project sites.

Education

There are few formal education requirements for drilling crew workers. Although drilling crew workers are not required to have a high school diploma, some employers might prefer to hire workers who do. While in school, drilling crew workers can learn skills such as basic mechanics, welding, and heavy equipment operations through vocational programs.

Most drilling crew workers start as helpers to experienced workers and are trained on the job. However, formal training is becoming more common as new and more advanced machinery and methods are used. Drilling crew workers usually must be at least 18 years old, be in good physical condition, and pass a drug test.

Wages

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not currently have wage data specific to the geothermal industry. However, BLS does have wage data for drilling crew workers across all industries. The following table shows wages for drilling occupations in that industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Derrick operators, oil and gas	$45,220
Rotary drill operators, oil and gas	$51,310
Roustabouts, oil and gas	$32,980

For more detailed information on drilling occupations in the geothermal industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's geothermal industry series installment: Construction Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Geothermal Energy [Second Installment]

Designing geothermal plants or new drilling equipment requires the work of many engineers. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key engineering occupations in geothermal energy.

Engineering Occupations

Most engineers work in offices, laboratories, or industrial plants, but some work outdoors at construction sites, where they monitor or direct operations or solve onsite problems.

Job Duties

Civil engineers design geothermal plants and supervise the construction phase. Many geothermal plants are built in rocky, difficult terrain, which require special procedures. Civil engineers also have to consider potential hazards such as earthquakes, and build plants to withstand them. These engineers are also responsible for designing access roads that lead to the plants.

Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of geothermal plants' electrical components, including machinery controls, lighting and wiring, generators, communications systems, and electricity transmission systems.

Electronics engineers are responsible for systems that control plant systems or signal processes. Electrical engineers work primarily with power generation and distribution; electronics engineers develop the complex electronic systems used to operate the geothermal plant.

Environmental engineers deal with the potential environmental impacts of geothermal plants. Although geothermal energy is an environmentally friendly source of electricity, environmental engineers must consider a site's potential impact on local plants and wildlife.

Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, and test tools and a variety of machines and mechanical devices. Many of these engineers supervise the manufacturing processes of drilling equipment or various generator or turbine components.

Education

Engineers typically have at least a bachelor's degree in an engineering specialty. However, some jobs require more education, such as a master's degree or doctoral degree. Additionally, an engineer typically must be licensed as a professional engineer (PE) and is expected to complete continuing education to keep current with new technologies.

Entry-level engineers may also be hired as interns or junior team members and work under the close supervision of more senior engineers. As they gain experience and knowledge, they are assigned more difficult tasks and given greater independence.

Engineers are usually required to be certified as competent to carry out specific work, depending on the systems used by a particular geothermal power company.

Wages

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the geothermal industry. However, BLS does have wage data for the electric power generation, transmission, and distribution industry group. The following table shows wages for engineering occupations in that industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Civil engineers	$84,950
Electrical engineers	$84,730
Electronics engineers, except computer	$90,790
Environmental engineers	$79,530
Mechanical engineers	$82,230

For more detailed information on engineering occupations in the geothermal industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's geothermal industry series installment: Drilling Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Geothermal Energy [First Installment]

Geothermal power uses groundwater found deep in underground cracks and reservoirs. The Earth's natural heat has brought these underground reservoirs to temperatures of 225 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit (107 to 315 degrees Celsius).

Geothermal plants capture and use this heat to generate electricity for the power grid. The plants subsequently release the cooled water back into the ground, where it seeps back into the underground reservoir, is reheated by the Earth, and can be reused by the plant.

Through this full cycle, geothermal power provides a renewable and inexhaustible source of energy.

Many different workers are required to get a geothermal plant up and running. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key science occupations in geothermal energy.

Science Occupations

Scientists work in offices where they study charts and maps of geothermal resources. They might also travel to the field to examine proposed geothermal sites. Scientists work on teams with other scientists in various disciplines. Geothermal companies employ some scientists full-time, while others are hired as consultants.

Job Duties

Environmental scientists work with geothermal plant developers to help them comply with environmental regulations and policies and to ensure that sensitive parts of the ecosystem are protected. They use their knowledge of the natural sciences to minimize hazards to the health of the environment and the nearby population. These scientists produce environmental impact studies necessary for a geothermal project to earn its building permits.

Geologists spend a large part of their time in the field, identifying and examining the topography and geologic makeup of a geothermal site. Geologists also study maps and charts to ensure that a site will be able to supply adequate geothermal energy. Geologists use their knowledge of different kinds of rock to make recommendations on the most cost-effective areas to drill. Some specialized geologists might help to monitor a plant's location for seismic activity and attempt to predict the threat of earthquakes.

On geothermal projects, hydrologists study the movement, distribution, and other properties of water below the earth's surface. They help decide where to drill wells and analyze the groundwater that is pumped from the underground reservoirs to the surface.

Wildlife biologists evaluate a geothermal plant's effect on local animal life and their ecosystems. Although geothermal plants are not inherently destructive, construction of the related infrastructure, such as plants, roads, and transmission towers, can be disruptive to the natural environment. Wildlife biologists ensure that the plant's impact on local animal populations is minimal.

Education

Although a master's degree is often preferred, a bachelor's degree, depending on the specialty, is typically sufficient for an entry-level position for geologists, environmental scientists, and wildlife biologists. Hydrologists typically enter the occupation with a master's degree. A Ph.D. is desirable for scientists who oversee environmental impact and site suitability studies.

Most scientists must have excellent computer skills because they use computers frequently for data analysis, digital mapping, remote sensing, and computer modeling. Scientists in certain specialties, such as geologists, are usually certified or licensed by a state licensing board.

Wages

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the geothermal industry. However, BLS does have wage data for the electric power generation, transmission, and distribution industry group. The following table shows wages for science occupations in that industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Environmental scientists and specialists, including health	$87,160
Geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers	$77,460
Hydrologists	$75,680
Zoologists and wildlife biologists	$57,420

For more detailed information on science occupations in the geothermal industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's geothermal industry series installment: Engineering Occupations.

Careers in Information Technology Services [Second Installment]

Employment in IT services is projected to grow 3.9 percent annually from 2010 to 2020, outpacing similar professional, scientific, and technical industries and the economy as a whole.

Computer and Mathematical Occupations

The high demand for these services has created a large number of fast-growing and high-paying jobs. Today’s The Daily Leap post is the second of three installments on computer and mathematical occupations, which comprise about 56 percent of the industry’s workforce.

Job Duties

Computer programmers make up 8 percent of the IT services industry. By writing computer code, they turn the designs created by software developers into instructions a computer can follow.

Computer systems analysts make up 9 percent of the industry. These workers analyze an organization’s computer systems and recommend ways to make the business run more efficiently. For example, they may assist organizations that want to switch all or part of their systems to cloud computing. Computer systems analysts employed in this industry often serve as consultants.

Computer support specialists make up 8 percent of the IT services industry. They provide help and advice to consumers or organizations that are using computer software or equipment. Some assist customers who call the company to speak to a specialist when they are having trouble with a software program or networking device. Other computer support specialists work in a company’s IT department and provide support for other company employees who are having computer problems.

Growth/Wages/Education

The following table shows projected growth rate between 2010 and 2020, and median annual wage and typical entry-level education requirements in May 2011.

Occupation	Projected Growth Rate	Median Annual Wage	Typical Education Needed for Entry
Computer programmers	29%	$72,100	Bachelor’s degree
Computer systems analysts	43%	$82,160	Bachelor’s degree
Computer support specialists	43%	$48,800	Some college, no degree

The projected growth in employment of computer programmers is attributable to increased demand for new and updated software. However, computer programming jobs are expected to be increasingly outsourced to countries with lower production costs, resulting in a slower projected growth rate over the next decade.

In general, computer systems analysts will be hired by businesses to reorganize IT departments to operate more efficiently. While computer support specialists will be needed as organizations continue to upgrade to increasingly complex computer systems and equipment.

For more detailed information on these computing and mathematical occupations in the IT services industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Careers in Information Technology Services [First Installment]

Firms in the IT services industry commonly create both computer programs and complex computer systems and networks tailored specifically to meet clients’ needs.

The industry has recently devoted significant resources to technologies that are expected to contribute to employment growth over the next decade, such as cloud computing and mobile applications. Cybersecurity, health care IT, and data management also may contribute to employment growth in the near future.

Computer and Mathematical Occupations

The high demand for these services has created a large number of fast-growing and high-paying jobs. Today’s The Daily Leap post is the first of three installments on computer and mathematical occupations, which comprise about 56 percent of the industry’s workforce.

Job Duties

Software developers create computer programs and oversee the entire design process, from planning stages to future upgrades. There are two different types of developers: applications software developers and systems software developers.

Applications software developers design a wide range of programs, from spreadsheets used by accountants, to electronic maps that help give people directions, to increasingly popular mobile games. Applications developers often design software that is offered through cloud computing.

Systems software developers create and upgrade operating systems, the software that supports a computer's basic functions, such as scheduling tasks, executing applications, and controlling peripherals.

Growth / Wages / Education

The following table shows projected growth rate between 2010 and 2020, and median annual wage and typical entry-level education requirements in May 2011.

Occupation	Projected Growth Rate	Median Annual Wage	Typical Education Needed for Entry
Applications software developers	57%	$88,120	Bachelor’s degree
Systems software developers	72%	$94,570	Bachelor’s degree

The rapid increase in both types of software developers is attributable to an increased demand for new and updated software. Examples include:

• Many consumer electronics include their own computers that need operating systems.
• Mobile computing and health care IT also require new software applications.
• The need for stronger cybersecurity will drive the demand for developers to design new software to detect, contain, and prevent viruses.

For more detailed information on these computing and mathematical occupations in the IT services industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Green Job Series: Careers in Biofuels [Sixth Installment]

Once the biofuels have been produced, sales workers are needed to keep supply chains running. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles sales occupations in the biofuels industry.

Plant Operations Occupations

Sales workers establish contracts so that goods can be bought and sold, and they help to keep biofuel production on schedule.

Job Duties

Purchasing agents buy farm products for further processing or for resale. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, review product quality, and monitor inventories. Purchasing agents develop budgets based on when and how much of a given feedstock is needed at a plant. They also establish contracts with suppliers, to ensure a steady flow of a given feedstock is transported to the plant to keep production on schedule.

Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives sell goods—such as fuel, by-products from fuel production, or industrial equipment—for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations. They ensure that there are customers to buy the fuel, negotiate prices of these sales, and prepare contracts. They are often very knowledgeable about the products that they sell, but they may also work with an engineer who has more expertise.

Education

Some purchasing agent jobs may only require a high school diploma. However, jobs at large-scale commercial plants generally require a bachelor's degree. Some positions, especially those at the managerial level, may require advanced degrees. Degrees related to engineering, business, economics, or applied sciences are preferred. On-the-job training may take up to 1 year.

Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives generally need a bachelor's degree, though some positions may only require a high school diploma. Most companies have on-the-job training programs that a sales representative must complete; these programs usually include time spent shadowing a more experienced employee as they complete day-to-day work. Sales representatives may also choose to earn a certification. The Certified Professional Manufacturers' Representative (CPMR) certification and the Certified Sales Professional (CSP) certification are offered by the Manufacturers' Representatives Education Research Foundation.

Earnings

BLS currently does not have wage data specific to the biofuels industry. However, BLS does have wage data for the basic chemical manufacturing industry group. The following table shows wages for selected sales occupations in this industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Buyers and purchasing agents, farm products	$51,380
Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives, technical and scientific products	$83,100

For more detailed information on sales occupations in the biofuels industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Green Job Series: Careers in Biofuels [Fourth Installment]

The biofuels industry employs a wide range of workers in a variety of occupations. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles agriculture occupations in the biofuels industry.

Agriculture Occupations

Farms are needed to grow corn, soybeans, and the other feedstocks used in making biofuels. These crops must be planted and cultivated before they are harvested and transported to grain elevators and processing plants.

Job Duties

Farmers and other agricultural managers, sometimes called growers, run establishments that produce crops that are used to make fuel. They supervise work being done by laborers and make decisions about where and when to plant various crops. They oversee the day-to-day operations of the farm or agricultural establishment.

Agricultural laborers maintain the quality of farms and crops by doing manual labor under the supervision of agricultural managers. They plant, cultivate, and harvest crops, which are used as fuel feedstocks.

Agricultural equipment operators operate farm equipment, such as tractors and combines, to sow seeds, and maintain and harvest crops.

Education

Farmers and agricultural managers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, although some may have a degree from an agricultural college. Prospective farmers and agricultural managers typically train and gain experience under more experienced workers. Those farmers and agricultural managers who don't have any postsecondary education may take a longer time to learn some aspects of the job.

Most agricultural laborer and equipment operator positions do not have a formal education requirement. Workers typically learn through on-the-job training. It is important for these workers to have strength and stamina because the work can be physically demanding. Good hand-eye coordination is often needed to harvest crops and operate farm machinery.

Earnings

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the biofuels industry. However, BLS does have green goods and services (GGS) wage data for occupations in agricultural production. The table that follows shows GGS-OCC wages for selected agricultural occupations in November 2011, for establishments that receive all of their revenue from green goods and services. The wages shown are GGS-OCC median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers	$52,180
Farmworkers and laborers, crop, nursery, and greenhouse	$19,130
Agricultural equipment operators	$21,340

For more detailed information on agriculture occupations in the biofuels industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week’s biofuels industry installment: Plant Operations Occupations

Green Job Series: Careers in Biofuels [Second Installment]

The biofuels industry employs a wide range of workers in a variety of occupations. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles engineering occupations in the biofuels industry.

Engineering Occupations

In the biofuels industry, many engineers are involved in much of the same work as scientists, evaluating both existing and potential feedstocks, and examining which sources provide the best energy at a reasonable cost. However, they also may work on processing facility design and be familiar with industrial equipment.

Job Duties

Agricultural engineers study existing and potential feedstocks to determine which plants can be best used to produce fuel. They must consider the best time of year for various feedstocks to be grown and the best location to cultivate them, as well as the waste products that will be generated in their production.

Chemical engineers design plant equipment and establish various processes and protocols for manufacturing biofuels as well as the chemicals that are used to convert raw materials into fuel.

Chemical engineers and biochemical engineers often work together in a biofuel production facility. For instance, biochemical engineers develop and implement a fermentation process for production of ethanol from sugars, and chemical engineers distill and purify the compound.

Civil engineers design and supervise the construction of biofuel processing plants. When designing a plant, they consider a number of factors, including costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards, and proximity to feedstocks. They may need to retrofit an existing petroleum plant or convert a biofuel plant so that it can process additional types of feedstocks.

Electrical engineers may work with various motors, power generation equipment, lighting, or any electrical controls for industrial equipment that are needed for a biofuel plant to run.

Environmental engineers work to improve waste treatments and water systems, and to find ways to limit emissions from fuel processing. For instance, an environmental engineer may work to minimize the natural gases that are released while burning materials at a biofuel plant, thereby preventing or reducing the degradation of the atmosphere or local soil and water systems.

Industrial engineers may work to determine the most efficient way to use workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make biofuels using a given feedstock or chemical process.

Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines used in a processing plant. They may work on developing precursor equipment that can begin the process of breaking feedstocks down into sugar before they are transported to a processing plant.

Education and Licensing

Engineering jobs typically require a bachelor's degree in a related engineering field. However, some jobs, particularly those involved in research and development or those at the managerial level may require advanced degrees or work experience. Many engineer jobs also require a professional engineer (PE) license, which requires a degree, work experience, and passing written exams. Civil engineers who exercise direct control of a project or those who supervise other engineers must have a license.

Earnings

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the biofuels industry. However, BLS does have wage data for the basic chemical manufacturing industry group; the following table shows wages for selected science occupations in that industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Agricultural engineers	$74,630
Chemical engineers	$96,870
Civil engineers	$96,370
Electrical engineers	$85,350
Environmental engineers	$89,070
Industrial engineers	$79,530
Mechanical engineers	$88,320

For more detailed information on engineering occupations in the biofuels industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week’s biofuels industry series installment: Construction Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Biofuels [First Installment]

The United States has increasingly sought ways to develop alternative fuels, such as biofuels. Biofuels are defined as fuels composed of or produced from biological raw materials. Biofuels can reduce the use of oil-based fuels and the release of greenhouse gas emissions.

The biofuels industry provides career opportunities for a vast array of workers, who do such tasks as developing biofuel technologies, growing crops, and processing and selling the fuels. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles science occupations in the biofuels industry.

Science Occupations

Scientists work to find the best, most cost-effective way of turning feedstocks into fuel. They often work for a wide variety of organizations, such as colleges, private and nonprofit companies, and government agencies. Scientists generally work in offices or laboratories, though some may work in a production plant.

Job Duties

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes. Those who work in alternative fuels may research various technologies that can be used to break down feedstocks into fuel.

Chemists study the properties, structures, compositions, and reactions of matter. They study various chemical processes that can be used to more efficiently produce biofuels. Chemists blend various compounds to see what inputs yield the best quality blends of fuel at a reasonable cost. Based on their findings, they develop new protocols for blending fuels to ensure quality control.

Microbiologists study the growth, structure, development, and characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or plant cells. They may use their knowledge of various forms of bacteria to improve the fermentation process used to make ethanol or to develop new ways of cultivating algae to use as a feedstock.

Soil and plant scientists conduct research on soil, crops, and other agricultural products to find new and improved ways to use various agricultural products for fuel. A plant scientist may test several types of perennial grasses to see which can be most efficiently broken down into simple sugars. Plant scientists also work to improve crop yields by using techniques that could enhance feedstock production efforts.

Education

Most scientist positions require a bachelor's degree from a program that includes both coursework and laboratory hours. A scientist who is leading a research team or conducting independent research may need a master's or doctoral degree to do so. Biochemists and biophysicists typically need a doctoral degree to enter the occupation.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the biofuels industry. However, BLS does have wage data for the basic chemical manufacturing industry group; the following table shows wages for selected science occupations in that industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Biochemists and biophysicists	$63,530
Chemists	$75,550
Microbiologists	$57,350
Soil and plant scientists	$58,940

For more detailed information on science occupations in the biofuels industry, click the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's biofuels industry series installment: Engineering Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Sustainable Forestry [Fourth Installment]

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles science technician occupations in sustainable forestry.

Science Technician Occupations

Biological technicians, environmental science technicians, and forest and conservation technicians typically assist and are supervised by conservation scientists, environmental scientists and specialists, soil and plant scientists, foresters, and wildlife biologists.

Job Duties

Biological technicians may set up, maintain, and clean laboratory instruments and equipment, such as microscopes, scales, and test tubes. They gather and prepare plant, water, and soil samples for laboratory analysis to test for pollution levels, diseases, and other factors that help determine the overall health level of the forest. Biological technicians may work in laboratories or outdoors, collecting samples and taking measurements.

Environmental science and protection technicians often work on teams with scientists and other technicians, to solve problems related to environmental degradation and public health. They may assist with inspections of forest lands, to ensure that environmental regulations are being followed. They also set up equipment to monitor pollution levels; collect samples of air, soil, water, and other materials for laboratory analysis; and prepare charts and reports that summarize test results.

Forest and conservation technicians work to improve the quality of forests and other natural resources. They assist with a variety of tasks, including gathering data on water and soil quality, assessing fire hazards, selecting and marking trees to be cut, tracking wildlife, and monitoring the activities of loggers and other forest users. Forest and conservation technicians may also supervise forest and conservation workers.

Education and Training

Biological technicians and environmental science and protection technicians typically have an associate's degree or comparable postsecondary training. Novice technicians are often trained on the job by more-experienced technicians. Technicians may receive their training at a technical or community college.

Forest and conservation technicians typically need an associate's degree in forestry or a related field. Employers look for technicians who have a degree that is accredited by the Society of American Foresters. Many technical and community colleges offer programs in forestry technology or a related field. Some states have licensing and registration programs for forest and conservation technicians. These programs usually have requirements for education and work experience.

Earnings

The table that follows shows wages for selected science technician occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Biological technicians	$39,750
Environmental science and protection technicians	$41,240
Forest and conservation technicians	$33,920

For more detailed information on science technician occupations in sustainable forestry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Green Job Series: Careers in Sustainable Forestry [Third Installment]

Scientists have an important role in sustainable forestry. They monitor the overall health of forests, as well as study and analyze specific aspects of living things, such as tree and other plant life and wildlife. Scientists also advise other forest workers on how to maintain a forest ecosystem and improve its productivity.

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles selected science occupations in sustainable forestry.

Science Occupations

Many types of science occupations, including conservation scientists, foresters, environmental scientists and specialists, soil and plant scientists, and wildlife biologists, are involved in sustainable forestry.

Job Duties

Conservation scientists work with forest owners, managers, and government agencies to devise ways to use and improve land, while safeguarding the environment and controlling erosion. They help landowners by preparing land use plans to meet conservation objectives and determine the most appropriate use for a particular forest site.

Foresters have a wide range of duties, and their responsibilities vary depending on their employer. Some primary duties of foresters include drawing up plans to regenerate forested lands, monitoring the progress of those lands, and supervising tree harvests. Foresters also create plans and do inspections to protect forests from disease, harmful insects, and damaging wildfires.

Foresters may choose and direct the preparation of sites on which trees will be planted. They advise on the type, number, and placement of trees. To ensure sustainability in a specific location, foresters may compare the growth with the decline of various species and the size of trees, and use that information to determine which trees should be harvested and sold to mills. Their volunteer or outreach work may include educating teachers and students about problems facing forest lands.

Environmental scientists and specialists may reclaim lands and bodies of water that have been contaminated by pollution, for example, or assess the risks of logging or other forest activities. They recommend ways to minimize the environmental impact of these activities.

Soil and plant scientists research soil, plants, and other forest products. Soil scientists examine the composition of soil as it relates to plant or tree growth and investigate effects of alternative soil treatment practices on tree productivity. They develop methods of conserving and managing soil. Plant scientists strive to improve timber yields, and they advise foresters and other sustainable forestry workers about techniques that could enhance production efforts.

Wildlife biologists work closely with public officials to develop wildlife management and conservation plans. These plans help ensure that wildlife species are protected from threats and that animal populations remain at sustainable levels.

Education and Training

Scientists need a bachelor's or higher degree. Conservation scientists typically need a degree in natural resource management or a related science field, such as agricultural science, soil and plant science, or environmental science. Soil and plant scientists generally have a degree in soil science, chemistry, geology, or a related field. Wildlife biologists need a degree in biology or zoology, and environmental scientists need a natural science or in environmental science degree. Although graduate work is not generally required, many scientists also have a master's degree or a Ph.D. Some wildlife biologists have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.

Foresters enter the occupation with at least a bachelor's degree in forestry, forest resource management, or a related field. Sixteen states sponsor some type of credentialing process for foresters. Some states require licensing, others have laws requiring registration, and a few have a voluntary registration process. Licensing and registration usually requires that an applicant have a 4-year degree in forestry and several years of forestry work experience. Licensure requirements may also include passing a written exam.

Earnings

The table that follows shows wages for selected science occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Conservation scientists	$61,100
Foresters	$55,950
Environmental scientists and specialists, including health	$63,570
Soil and plant scientists	$58,740
Zoologists and wildlife biologists	$57,710

For more detailed information on science occupations in sustainable forestry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's final sustainable forestry series installment: Science Technician Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Water Conservation [Sixth Installment]

Workers in water operations occupations keep the water flowing by pumping water out of the ground and controlling water and wastewater treatment plants.

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key water operations occupations in water conservation.

Water Operations Occupations

Workers in water operations occupations are employed by water utilities or local governments. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators work indoors in water or sewage treatment plants. Pump operators may work outdoors or in pumping facilities.

Job Duties

Water and wastewater treatment plant operators manage the systems of machines that transfer or treat water or wastewater. They add chemicals to disinfect water, inspect plant equipment, and monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges. These workers also collect and test water and sewage material and operate the equipment that purifies water and disposes of sewage.

Water must go through a treatment plant at some point between the original source and the local water supply. Water treatment plant operators ensure that water is clean and safe to drink before it reaches customers. After water is used, it flows through sewer systems to a wastewater treatment plant. There, it is cleaned and filtered before being released back into the environment or being reclaimed.

Pump operators, except wellhead pumpers operate the pumps that move water through pipes to another area. These pipes can be very large and move huge volumes of water over mountains or other terrain, or they may be smaller pumps that move water from one area of a treatment plant to another. Pump operators monitor the flow of water, ensuring that the pump functions properly, and do routine maintenance or repair as needed.

Education and Training

Workers in these occupations usually get on-the-job training to prepare for their jobs. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators typically need a high school diploma and receive more than 12 months of on-the-job training. Formal education is not required to become a pump operator. These workers are typically trained on the job for 1 to 12 months.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the water conservation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected agriculture and water operations occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators	$42,760
Pump operators, except wellhead pumpers	$44,610

For more detailed information on water operations occupations in the water conservation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Green Job Series: Careers in Water Conservation [Fifth Installment]

Because agriculture is the largest consumer of water resources, agricultural and grounds maintenance workers have a vital role in water conservation. Agricultural workers use more efficient irrigation techniques that provide crops with the optimal amount of water while minimizing water loss. Landscaping and grounds keeping workers maintain outdoor spaces. They ensure that these areas are properly kept up and watered.

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key agriculture and grounds maintenance occupations in water conservation.

Agriculture and Grounds Maintenance Occupations

Most agricultural and grounds maintenance workers spend the majority of their time outdoors, and some of the work is physically demanding. Agricultural workers are employed by farms; grounds maintenance workers may be employed by a landscaping company or by any organization that has a large area of landscaped land.

Job Duties

Farmers oversee the production of crops. They supervise all steps of crop production, including planting, fertilizing, watering, and harvesting. They determine how to raise crops, taking into account the amount of water needed and the most efficient way to deliver it. They work with agricultural engineers and other workers to design irrigation systems for their fields and oversee the regular watering of crops.

Agricultural equipment operators use a variety of farm machines to plow fields, sow seeds, and maintain and harvest crops. They also operate heavy machinery to dig irrigation ditches or trenches for pipes. Some operate irrigation equipment, such as overhead sprayers. Equipment operators may also make adjustments or minor repairs.

Farmworkers and laborers handle numerous tasks related to growing and harvesting crops. They may ensure that crops receive enough water and remove weeds or unwanted plants that would consume water.

Landscaping and grounds keeping workers ensure that outdoor areas are properly and efficiently watered. For example, they may water only in the early morning or in the evening, so that water is not lost through evaporation. They may also adjust sprinkler systems so that sprinkler sprays do not overlap or waste water by spraying sidewalks or other non-planted areas.

Education and Training

Most farmers need a high school diploma, and some have a bachelor’s degree from a college of agriculture. Some farmers gain experience growing crops, tending livestock, or working part-time on a farm, others learn through an internship or other farm-based training program.

Agricultural equipment operators require between 1 and 12 months of on-the-job training or a formal training program. Farmworkers and laborers need less than a high school diploma, but may need up to a year of on-the-job training. Landscaping and grounds keeping workers typically do not need any formal education and are trained on-the-job in less than 1 month.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the water conservation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected agriculture and grounds maintenance occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers	$69,300
Agricultural equipment operators	$25,860
Farmworkers and laborers, crop, nursery, and greenhouse	$18,670
Landscaping and grounds keeping workers	$23,570

For more detailed information on agriculture and grounds maintenance occupations in the water conservation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Thursday's final water conservation industry series installment: Water Operations Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Water Conservation [Fourth Installment]

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key construction occupations in water conservation.

Construction Occupations

Construction workers build and install the infrastructure for conserving water. They build new water delivery and storage systems. They also build new dams and reservoirs, dig wells, lay new pipes, and install water-efficient appliances and irrigation systems.

Construction workers typically are employed by construction or utilities companies and spend much of their time outdoors. Their work can be physically demanding.

Job Duties

Construction managers oversee building projects. These may include constructing reservoirs and water treatment plants or installing new pipes and water delivery systems. The primary duties of a construction manager include administering permits, contracts, and the budget, as well as monitoring project quality and safety.

On large assignments, a project manager typically oversees several construction managers who supervise individual aspects of the assignment.

Construction laborers do many of the basic physical tasks onsite. They may clean and prepare construction sites, load or unload building materials, dig trenches, backfill holes, or compact earth to prepare for construction. They do a variety of tasks, from easy to difficult and even hazardous, on almost all construction sites.

Equipment operators use heavy machinery to move construction materials, earth, and other heavy materials at a construction site. They may dig trenches for pipes or clear a large area for a planned reservoir. Equipment operators also control cranes to lift and place heavy objects, such as collectors and storage tanks for rainwater or greywater. They set up, inspect, and adjust equipment and do some maintenance and minor repair.

Pipelayers place pipes outdoors. They install large-diameter pipes, such as water mains, or smaller pipes that carry water from the main to houses or buildings. Pipelayers may also install sewage systems that carry waste to treatment plants.

Plumbers follow detailed construction drawings to install pipes and appliances in buildings and connect them to the water supply. They may remove older fixtures and replace them with water-efficient ones, such as dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets. Plumbers may also replace leaky pipes or install plumbing systems that accommodate both drinkable and non-drinkable water and thereby allow a building to use rainwater and greywater.

Septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners ensure that septic tanks—tanks that store human waste when sewers are not available—and sewer pipes are clean and that waste material is able to flow through them properly. If septic tanks or sewers become blocked, the waste material backs up and may flow up through drains or seep into the ground nearby, which can contaminate the water supply.

Education, Training, and Licensing

Construction managers typically need a degree in construction management, business management, or engineering and have experience working in construction. Experience is important for construction managers, so it may substitute for some educational requirements. Workers who have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction management or engineering but do not have significant construction experience may be hired as assistants to construction managers. Construction laborers are not required to have a formal education.

Equipment operators often learn on the job, complete an apprenticeship, or do a combination of both to become certified. Becoming certified involves training and testing to ensure competence and safety. Because of safety concerns and the potential danger of operating this equipment, most construction workers are required to pass regular drug screenings.

Pipelayers typically need a high school diploma and are trained on the job in 1 month or less. Plumbers also typically have a high school diploma and receive training through an apprenticeship, which usually lasts 4 to 5 years and involves about 1,700 to 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and at least 246 hours of related technical instruction.

Septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners need less than a high school diploma. They are normally trained on the job and are competent in performing their jobs with 1 to 12 months of training.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the water conservation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected construction occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Construction managers	$82,790
Construction laborers	$29,990
Construction equipment operators	$40,980
Pipelayers	$36,180
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters	$49,140
Septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners	$34,020

For more detailed information on construction occupations in the water conservation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's water conservation industry series installment: Agriculture and Grounds Maintenance Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Water Conservation [Third Installment]

Water conservation requires planning, especially when new communities or large infrastructure projects in drier areas are being developed. In addition, outreach is important to inform the public about water conservation.

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key planning and outreach occupations in water conservation.

Planning and Outreach Occupations

Water utilities and government water agencies may employ planning and outreach workers to educate the public about water conservation and to develop and implement conservation strategies. These workers typically are in offices.

Job Duties

Urban and regional planners develop strategies to ensure that there is enough water available to support development. Urban and regional planners have a broad view with respect to community development, and their preparation is essential to ensure efficient use of water.

Operations research analysts decide how to allocate water when communities or new structures are being planned, and help utilities and other organizations figure out the most effective way to distribute water. They evaluate costs and benefits of water projects and work with scientists, engineers, and others to develop solutions to water distribution, sanitation, and conservation problems.

Landscape architects may practice xeriscaping to choose the type and quantity of plants for a landscaped area. Part of their job is to determine how much water their landscapes require and to plan ways to ensure that the land is properly watered and drained. They may plan automatic sprinkler layouts that minimize overlapping spray patterns and that operate at night or in the early morning to minimize water loss through evaporation.

Public relations specialists educate people about water conservation. Because water conservation requires the participation and cooperation of the general public, public relations specialists inform people about what they can do—and what utilities and local governments are doing—to conserve water. Public relations specialists may write materials for media releases, plan and direct public relations programs, and answer media inquiries.

Education

Most urban and regional planners have a master’s degree from an accredited urban or regional planning program. These programs accept students with a variety of undergraduate backgrounds, including economics, geography, political science, or environmental design. Operations research analysts need a master’s degree for most research positions, but a bachelor’s degree may be enough for most entry-level positions. Many analysts have a degree in a related field, such as mathematics, statistics, or computer science.

Landscape architects usually need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture. Many employers recommend that prospective landscape architects complete an internship with a landscape architecture firm during their formal education. Public relations specialists typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or a related field. They are then trained on the job for 1 month to 1 year.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the water conservation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected planning and outreach occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Urban and regional planners	$65,230
Operations research analysts	$72,100
Landscape architects	$64,180
Public relations specialists	$54,170

For more detailed information on planning and outreach occupations in the water conservation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Thursday's water conservation industry series installment: Construction Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Water Conservation [Second Installment]

Engineers work alongside scientists, engineering technicians, and others to apply technical solutions to water conservation. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key engineering occupations in water conservation.

Engineering Occupations

Engineers’ role in water conservation is to apply strategies that reduce the use of water. They may develop new technologies that decrease the amount of water used for certain activities. They may also design water delivery and storage systems and water treatment facilities.

Engineers may design and test various types of machinery and water-efficient appliances. They ensure quality control and oversee compliance with standard operating procedures and federal, state, and local regulations. Engineering technicians work under the supervision of engineers to complete many engineering tasks.

Job Duties

Agricultural engineers find technological solutions to reduce water use on farms. They may design agricultural machinery and equipment or irrigation systems that use water more efficiently, and help determine how to deliver the most water for a given type of crop. Agricultural engineers may also be involved in pollution management, preventing runoff from fields that could pollute local water sources.

Civil engineers design and supervise large construction projects. They may be responsible for the design or upkeep of a city-wide water distribution system or sewer system. They are involved in significant construction projects and may design and supervise construction of a “green” building with water conservation in mind.

Environmental engineers develop ways to improve and protect the water supply. They may prepare, review, and update environmental investigation reports and design projects leading to environmental protection, such as water reclamation facilities. Environmental engineers are also involved with cleaning up pollution or hazardous materials, where they evaluate the extent of the pollution or the significance of a hazard. They may also help with the design of municipal water supply and industrial wastewater treatment systems, and they research the environmental impact of proposed projects.

Industrial engineers are involved in improving industrial practices and increasing efficiency. They devise ways to use less water more efficiently. They may design systems that contain or cleanse water that has become contaminated through industrial processes.

Mining and geological engineers use their knowledge to evaluate sources of water, particularly underground sources. Groundwater is typically in aquifers, which may be made up of porous rock, sand, or gravel. Engineers may help identify the boundaries of an aquifer and determine which sites are best for drilling wells to bring water to the surface.

Education

Engineers usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in an engineering field. Engineers in water conservation may specialize, as described above, and usually work solely in that specialty. Licensure as a professional engineer (PE) is recommended and often required, depending on an engineer’s specialty. Entry-level engineers work under the direction of senior or supervisory engineers and may assist senior engineers on sustainability projects.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the water conservation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected engineering occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Agricultural engineers	$74,000
Civil engineers	$79,340
Environmental engineers	$78,690
Industrial engineers, including health and safety	$63,570
Mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers	$84,320

For more detailed information on engineering occupations in the water conservation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's water conservation industry series installment: Planning and Outreach Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Water Conservation [First Installment]

Water conservation pertains mostly to fresh water, because it is a limited resource. It helps to ensure that available water supplies are used in the most efficient ways possible. Water conservation focuses on household, municipal, commercial, industrial, and agricultural water use.

Many different types of workers are involved in water conservation. They are employed within various industries, including federal, state, and local governments; utilities; construction; and agriculture, among others. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series profiles key science occupations in water conservation.

Science Occupations

Scientists who work in water conservation devise technical solutions for reducing water use and develop ways to tap into new sources of fresh water. They plan strategies to conserve water resources and ensure that water is used as efficiently as possible. Scientists are also involved in reducing water use and ensuring that our water is safe. They measure levels of pollution and chemical contamination. Some scientists are involved in preserving water ecosystems and habitats.

Scientists generally work as part of a team that includes other types of scientists, engineers, and science technicians. Science technicians work under the supervision of scientists and assist them in their duties.

Scientists often work in an office or laboratory, and many spend time working outdoors. They may be employed by government agencies, universities, or private companies. Some scientists are hired as advisors for special projects.

Job Duties

Microbiologists work in laboratories studying water samples to ensure that the samples are free of harmful parasites, and that any microorganisms found in the water are not harmful to humans or the natural environment. Microbiologists study these microorganisms and their effects on the environment and human health. They may devise ways to remove harmful microorganisms from our drinking water, or use them clean up pollution.

Water conservationists are conservation scientists who give technical help to people concerned with the conservation of water. They help private landowners and governments by advising on water quality, preserving water supplies, preventing groundwater contamination, and conserving water.

Chemists analyze the chemicals found in water to make sure it is safe for use. They also handle water purification, using chemicals to kill harmful microorganisms and processes to remove harmful chemicals.

Environmental scientists and specialists protect natural water sources from pollutants and other contamination by studying the sources and effects of this pollution and determining ways to clean it up and prevent further pollution. They may also work to reclaim contaminated water by devising ways to clean the water and determining suitable uses for the water after it is cleaned.

Environmental scientists often ensure regulations are followed so that the water is healthy to use and any damage to the environment from water use is minimal.

Hydrologists study water and the water cycle and analyze how they influence the surrounding environment. They study the movement, distribution, and other properties of water and may measure bodies of water, such as volume and stream flow. They may also research how to improve water conservation and preservation.

Some hydrologists use computer models to forecast future water supplies, the spread of pollution, and to find new sources of fresh water. Hydrologists are also vital in evaluating the feasibility of water-related projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, and waste treatment facilities.

Education and Skills

Most scientists need at least a bachelor’s degree from a program that includes both coursework and laboratory hours. A scientist who is leading a research team or conducting independent research typically needs a master’s or doctoral degree. Hydrologists typically need a master’s degree. It is common for scientists to pursue a specialized degree in a subfield, such as bacteriology or toxicology.

Analytical skills are important for those conducting experiments and determining an outcome or a reasonable way to continue an experiment. Scientists also need oral and written communication skills because they often work as part of a team, and must be able to share the results of their analyses with others. In addition, scientists must be detail-oriented when conducting experiments and recording data.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the water conservation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected science occupations in May 2012. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Microbiologists	$66,260
Conservation scientists	$61,100
Chemists	$71,770
Environmental scientists and specialists, including health	$63,570
Hydrologists	$75,530

For more detailed information on science occupations in the water conservation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's water conservation industry series installment: Engineering Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Environmental Remediation [Fourth Installment]

Environmental remediation is an important sector of the green economy. Whether polluted through years of industrial activity or by inadvertent releases of contaminants, land areas and bodies of water must be remediated to restore them to their natural state or to make them suitable for redevelopment.

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series describes management and business specialist occupations in environmental remediation.

Management and Business Specialist Occupations

Management and business specialists handle the administrative work of an environmental remediation project. These people are typically office workers who plan and organize remediation projects, as well as those who supervise the workers cleaning up a site.

Job Duties

Compliance officers are specialists in the various local, state, and federal laws and regulations involved in environmental remediation. Remediation is highly regulated, so these specialists must be aware of pertinent regulations and ensure that whoever is managing the project is in compliance with them. In addition, remediation work can be hazardous, so the compliance officer must ensure that workers follow safety regulations.

Construction managers coordinate and supervise many of the on-site operations. They oversee construction workers and heavy-equipment operators to ensure a productive and safe work environment. They make sure that jobs are completed on time and on budget with the right amount of tools, equipment, and materials. Many managers also are responsible for obtaining necessary permits and licenses. They often are responsible for multiple projects at a time.

Cost estimators collect and analyze data to estimate the time, money, resources, and labor required for a remediation project. They make allowances for wasted material, bad weather, delays, and other factors that can increase the costs of the project. Cost estimators use sophisticated computer software, including databases, simulations, and mathematical programs.

Emergency management directors coordinate responses to emergencies. They might be called to manage the response to unforeseen events, such as an oil spill or a release of hazardous materials. They coordinate the emergency response to these incidents and begin planning for cleanup and management of the incident.

Natural sciences managers supervise scientific professionals involved in a remediation project. Because remediation involves a variety of technologies, many scientists from different disciplines might be involved in these projects. Natural science managers oversee and coordinate the efforts of these different scientists.

Public relations specialists are responsible for keeping the media and the general public informed about remediation projects. This is especially important if an accident such as an oil spill has caused an area to be polluted. Public relations specialists compile information given to them from others working on the project and present it to the public in a clear and concise way.

Education and Training

Compliance officers have a bachelor's degree in business or a related field, plus knowledge of relevant laws and regulations. Compliance officers also typically undergo moderate-term on-the-job training lasting from 1 month to 1 year. Cost estimators usually enter the field with a bachelor's degree in math, accounting, or a related field.

Construction managers typically require an associate's or bachelor's degree in construction management, or business management with experience in construction. Other construction managers do not have a degree, but have moved into the position through work experience, though this is becoming less common. Natural sciences managers typically have a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree in one of the natural sciences plus several years of work experience as a scientist. Emergency management directors typically need at least a bachelor's degree plus several years of relevant work experience. They also need a year or more of on-the-job training.

Public relations specialists typically need a bachelor's degree plus excellent written and verbal communications skills. They also need moderate-term on-the-job training.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the environmental remediation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected management and business specialist occupations in the waste management and remediation services industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Compliance officers	$60,370
Construction managers	$89,920
Cost estimators	$67,680
Emergency management directors	$77,690
Natural sciences managers	$96,710
Public relations specialists	$62,190

For more detailed information on management and business specialist occupations in the environmental remediation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Green Job Series: Careers in Environmental Remediation [Third Installment]

This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series describes construction and material-moving occupations in environmental remediation.

Construction and Material-moving Occupations

Construction and material-moving workers operate the machinery that is used onsite in a remediation project. These workers might be exposed to contaminants and might be required to wear safety gear such as chemical protective suits and breathing apparatus.

Job Duties

Construction laborers do many of the basic tasks on remediation sites. These workers do physically demanding work, such as removing debris and possible hazards, loading and unloading materials, digging trenches, and operating machinery. They are used when there is no danger of exposure to dangerous chemicals or when the site has been made safe for them to work.

Dredge operators excavate waterways. They remove sand, gravel, or rock from bodies of water that have become contaminated. They might operate from land-based dredges or those mounted on barges or ships to remove material that is then either disposed of or treated to remove hazardous materials.

Earth drillers operate machinery that is used to drill into the earth. Because many remediation techniques involve drilling deep into the ground to remove pollution in the groundwater or below the top layers of soil, drills are used to reach the deep layers of rock and sediment underground. Drillers are needed for pump-and-treat techniques and are used occasionally for other techniques when the pollution has seeped deep underground.

Excavating and loading machine and dragline operators use machines equipped with scoops or shovels. They dig sand, earth, or other materials and load them onto conveyors or trucks for treatment or transport to disposal sites.

Hazardous materials removal workers identify and dispose of materials that are flammable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic. They are responsible for cleaning up sites that are severely contaminated and must be made safe for other workers to enter. They might deal with sites that have chemical, biological, or even radioactive waste and must wear special suits and respirators to keep them safe from these materials. They must be familiar with the procedures for handling and disposing of certain types of hazardous waste.

Operating engineers and other construction equipment operators drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used in remediation projects. They work with one or several types of power construction equipment and might operate excavation and loading machines equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets that dig sand, earth, gravel, or similar materials.

Education and Training

These construction and material-moving workers require on-the-job training to become competent in their occupations. Construction laborers and dredge operators generally undergo on-the-job training that lasts one month or less and do not need formal education. Excavating and loading machine operators also do not need formal education, but typically have prior work experience as construction laborers or construction equipment operators. They typically undergo moderate-term on-the-job training that can last between one month and one year. Equipment operators and earth drillers typically have a high school diploma or equivalent and also require moderate-term on-the-job training.

Hazardous materials removal workers typically enter the occupation with a high school diploma or the equivalent and are required by the federal government to complete formal training programs, such as an OSHA-certified HAZWOPER training course that lasts approximately 40 hours. They also need to be trained in the proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials and in any safety equipment they might be required to use, such as respirators or self-contained breathing apparatus.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the environmental remediation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected construction and material-moving occupations in the waste management and remediation services industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Construction laborers	$34,600
Dredge operators, except oil and gas	$33,530
Earth drillers	$44,550
Excavating and loading machine and dragline operators	$38,860
Hazardous materials removal workers	$37,440
Operating engineers and other construction equipment operators	$38,910

For more detailed information on construction and material-moving occupations in the environmental remediation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's environmental remediation industry series installment: Management and Business Specialist Occupations.

Green Job Series: Careers in Environmental Remediation [Second Installment]

Several types of workers are involved in environmental remediation. This installment of The Daily Leap's green job series describes engineering and mapping occupations in environmental remediation.

Engineering and Mapping Occupations

Engineers who work in environmental remediation devise technical solutions for cleaning up pollution. They work closely with scientists and other remediation workers to implement the best methods for remediating polluted areas. They also might be responsible for developing methods to increase safety and to reduce the risk of illness and injury for a company's employees.

Engineers are employed by a variety of organizations, including businesses, government agencies, and consulting firms. Most work in offices or laboratories, but they might travel frequently to remediation sites.

Job Duties

Cartographers and photogrammetrists measure, analyze, and interpret geographic information to create maps and charts. The maps and charts detail areas of contamination, as well as the physical characteristics of the site where remediation will be carried out.

Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, and physics to develop remediation techniques. Much contamination is chemical in nature, and many remediation technologies use chemical processes to deal with contaminants.

Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to solve environmental problems. They work to control pollution, clean up polluted areas, and monitor the progress of remediation projects.

Environmental engineering technicians carry out the plans that engineers develop. They test, operate, and, if necessary, modify equipment that is used for the cleanup of environmental pollution. They might collect samples for testing, or work to mitigate sources of environmental pollution. They might also assist in the inspection of the site for compliance with regulations.

Health and safety engineers combine knowledge of health or safety with systems engineering techniques to make sure that chemicals and other products are not harmful. In remediation projects, they ensure that workers are safe from contaminants.

Mining and geological engineers use geology to evaluate potential remediation sites. They study the geology of the local area and work with geoscientists and other scientists and engineers to determine the most effective techniques for remediating a particular area.

Education and Training

Cartographers and photogrammetrists require a bachelor's degree in geography, engineering, or physical science. Some states require cartographers and photogrammetrists to be licensed as surveyors, and some states have specific licenses for photogrammetrists.

Engineers must have at least a bachelor's degree in their specific engineering field. Many engineers are certified as a professional engineer (PE), a certification that requires several years of work experience as well as passing written exams. Employers also value practical experience, so many engineers start out assisting more senior engineers, and with experience, they take on more responsibility and more complex projects.

Environmental engineering technicians typically have an associate's degree from a technical or community college.

Earnings

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently does not have wage data specific to the environmental remediation industry. The table that follows shows wages for selected engineering and mapping occupations in the waste management and remediation services industry group for May 2011. The wages shown are median annual wages for the United States as a whole; wages vary by employer and location.

Occupation	Median annual wage
Cartographers and photogrammetrists	$55,970
Chemical engineers	$101,040
Environmental engineers	$81,970
Environmental engineering technicians	$41,310
Health and safety engineers, except mining safety engineers and inspectors	$75,770
Mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers	$84,300

For more detailed information on science occupations in the environmental remediation industry, follow the Occupational Outlook Handbook link.

Next week's environmental remediation industry series installment: Construction and Material-moving Occupations.