Careers in the environment in Australia

Abstract

The range of environmental careers has been developing over four decades. An understanding of the characteristics of the profession provides opportunities to consider its future directions and how graduates are being prepared to assist their work as professionals. A survey of environmental professionals in Australia in 2009 was undertaken to build on a 2004 survey. Results provide insight into the expanding range of positions, the skills needed, and about paths to enter the profession. Survey results indicate growth in the range of titles used to describe environmental positions, although the distribution of positions across the environment sectors has generally been stable. ‘Public awareness/information and education’ and ‘research and development’ positions have decreased, while those in ‘environmental consultancy’ and ‘environmental impact assessment’ have increased. Overall, the data demonstrate the wide range of career directions that can be taken in the environment profession. They also provide information for those contemplating entering the profession, and those looking to its future by both its promotion and the development of the required skills.

Keywords:

• environment profession
• characteristics
• skills and abilities