Conversations about climate change have assumed a new sense of urgency as recent events, including extreme weather events and increasing energy prices, continue to threaten our existence.

In response to these challenges, governments and corporate bodies alike are shifting their attention to the environment and setting goals to achieve a greener and more climate-resilient economy.

The renewable energy sector, as well as the environmental science and forestry sectors, are increasing rapidly due to the climate crisis and as such, creating new jobs in the process.

This has, in turn, led to a greater demand for workers to fill these roles.

As jobs in environmental science and specialties are projected to grow by the next decade and because sustainability jobs are high in demand, it, therefore, becomes important to highlight these 6 green jobs that are set to dominate the labor market in 2022.

1. Air Quality Engineer

Air quality engineers are in hot demand in the green jobs market as a result of the critical times that we are in – emissions, smoke from wildfires, etc.

As an air quality engineer, you will be responsible for executing high degree monitoring practices that are necessary for developing standards for air equity.

In addition to performing chemical and statistical analysis, you will also conduct computer modeling and design the equipment used for pollution control.

In this career path, you can either work for government agencies or private companies.

If you work for government agencies, some of your job responsibilities will include tracking the polluters in an assigned region, enforcing fines on said polluters, and taking legal action against those who refuse to comply with such regulations.

If you work for a private company, you will be responsible for monitoring the emissions from specific pollutants and ensuring their regulation.

2. Solar Photovoltaic Installer

A solar photovoltaic (PV) installer assembles, installs, and maintains solar panels.

This is one of the green jobs that is increasing in demand as solar has become a popular renewable energy source.

The construction industry as well as the energy sector are looking for people with this expertise as there have been recent technological advancements in solar energy, making them more accessible to businesses and homeowners.

So, if you possess the qualifications or electrical and mechanical skills with physical stamina and strength to boot, you should give it a shot.

3. Environmental Specialist

Environmental specialists are inquisitive problem solvers who pay close attention to detail by observing a population’s impact on the environment, identifying problems, and recommending solutions.

Part of their duties includes assisting organizations and companies as they tackle a large number of environmental issues.

These issues may include environmental disasters, sustainability initiatives, green building and manufacturing, compliance, hazardous-waste remediation (disposal and cleanup), renewable energy, soil, water, and air quality.

4. Sustainability Analyst

Sustainable Analysts are the initiators and drivers of sustainable programs and advancements.

Employing a wide range of research tools, sustainability analysts analyze and make recommendations for corporate sustainability projects and programs.

For you to be better positioned for this role which is highly relevant in the green jobs market, you must have a high proficiency in technology because carbon footprint reduction is deeply rooted in developing processes around information technology.

5. Civil Engineer

Mitigating climate change effects means building systems that can help people adapt to the crisis.

That is why civil engineers are in hot demand because they think up, design, build, execute, supervise, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems both in the public and private sectors.

This includes buildings, roads, airports, bridges, tunnels, dams, and systems for sewage treatment and water supply.

6. Forester

Since deforestation is a major issue in the climate change crisis, this job is an important one.

As a forester, some of your primary duties include drawing up forest regeneration plans, supervising tree harvests, and monitoring the progress of regenerated forests.

Beyond that, foresters supervise forest and conservation workers and technicians while directing them and evaluating their work.

They also devise plans to keep forests free of harmful insects, diseases, and wildfires.

Bottom line

There are many careers in environmental sustainability but we handpicked a few to get you started.

If you are interested in sustainability, there is always something for you in the green jobs market and that is why we urge you to take a look at all of the options, and, who knows, you just might find something that interests you.