Finding extraordinary engineers for exceptional clients

How to Become an Environmental Engineer

May 19th, 2015

As the human race prepares to deal with the specter of climate change, the role of the environmental engineer increases in importance. Innovations in this engineering discipline offer the potential to mitigate the effects of carbon-based pollutants, and more brainpower is a definitely need.

Now is a great time to consider a career in environmental engineering, because there is a dearth of engineers for Data science staffing in many companies. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the number of environmental engineering jobs will increase by 15 percent from 2012 to 2022. The average salary for environmental engineers is around $80,000 per year.

If this is an area of engineering of great interest to you, here are a few ideas to put you on a path to becoming an environmental engineer.

What Are the Typical Job Duties of an Environmental Engineer?

Knowing the standard duties of an environmental engineer is a must before considering a career in that field. Making an important life-altering decision, like the choice of a profession, without all the details is never a wise idea.

Environmental engineering normally involves developing solutions to solve a myriad of environmental problems. These include designing systems to manage pollution control, waste disposal, recycling, and more.Even if you have many of these and want to do a full residential cleanout, EZ Escondido Junk Removal | junkremovalguysofescondido.com can do it for you.But being an environmenatal engineer a typical day also involves interaction with clients, site surveys, and a host of data analysis duties – which are also standard tasks of many engineers regardless of their specific discipline.

Environmental Engineering Educational Requirements are Stringent

Like other engineering fields, the educational requirements of an environmental engineer are robust. A Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field is definitely a must. While there may be a chance to earn an engineer job title with only an Associate’s degree and a significant amount of work experience, this remains an exception to the rule.

While some schools offer specific environmental engineering programs, it is somewhat of a specialty, so you might need to earn a degree in another engineering discipline. Most engineering schools offer classes focused on environmental topics if not an actual degree program, so definitely plan on taking these courses if an environmental engineering degree isn’t an option at your college.

Do you like math? A typical engineering program includes classes in calculus, data analytics, as well as other relevant science subjects like physics, biology, and chemistry. Depending on your specific program, a variety of design and general engineering coursework remains a requirement.

Experienced Engineers need a Professional Engineering License

Once you’ve earned your engineering degree, acquiring a professional engineering license is another must to fully develop your career. Requirements for licensure vary by state, so do some research once your graduation date approaches.

If you are interested in learning more about career opportunities in engineering, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As one of the top engineering staffing agencies in Washington State and a great source of Seattle engineering jobs, we can help you build a rewarding career. Meet with us soon!

Certifications and Licensure for Environmental Engineers: What You Need to Know

March 18th, 2015

For most engineers looking to fully develop their career, acquiring the right certifications and licenses is a must, and the environmental engineering discipline offers no exception to this rule. Certifications and licensure remain an important part of the engineering profession. Basically, they are a requirement if you want to reach your full potential as an engineer.

So, how do you go about earning the right certifications and licenses for environmental engineering? Here’s a closer look at what it takes.

Becoming Licensed Is a Must for the Working Engineer

In most cases, you’ll need to be licensed to work as an environmental engineer. If you aren’t, then you must work under the supervision of a previously licensed P.E., which is typical at the beginning of your career. In the United States, environmental engineering licensure is handled by each individual state in which you plan to work. The varying requirements by state can be found at the NCEES Licensing Board website.

In general, there are four steps to earning your P.E. license.

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from an accredited educational institution.
  2. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (F.E.) exam.
  3. Gain at least four years (the actual amount varies by state) of professional experience working under the supervision of a P.E.
  4. Pass the P.E. exam in environmental engineering.

Many states also require continuing education once you become licensed.

The BCEE Certification for Experienced Environmental Engineers

If you are a licensed environmental engineer with at least eight years of professional experience, becoming a Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE) is the next logical step in your career development. The title is considered a premium credential, and puts you on the fast track to a managerial or executive position in the industry.

Acquiring a BCEE certification is a rigorous process involving peer review and a written exam as well a significant professional experience in the field. Its tangible career benefits make it worth consideration for senior level environmental engineers.

If you want additional advice on career development, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As one of the top engineering staffing agencies in Washington State, we are also a great source for Seattle engineering jobs. Make it a point to contact us today!

Environmental Engineering Processes to limit Pollution in 2015

January 22nd, 2015

Whatever your opinion on global warming or climate change, there’s no denying that limiting pollution is a good thing for the environment. One of main reasons talented engineers move into the world of environmental engineering is the hope that their innovative work benefits humankind as a whole.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some new initiatives aimed at reducing pollution over the next year and beyond.

MIT’s Mission 2015 to limit Industrial Pollution

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) continues to be one of this country’s leading educational institutions focused on science and engineering. MIT’s Mission 2015 hopes to develop solutions to meet the many challenges affecting the planet’s biodiversity including the reduction of industrial pollution. Mission 2015 recognizes that solutions to this complex problem involve a multi-faceted approach.

According to MIT, “any action plan to reduce industrial pollution will need to be tailored toward specific pollutants to work well and not pose undue risks on either the economy or the environment.” MIT’s plan focuses on the reduction of multiple types of industrial pollution at their source, while leveraging the U.S. Superfund model to clean up sites that are severely polluted.

Bloomberg launches 2015 Campaign for Clean Energy

The private sector is also hopping on this green energy bandwagon. Bloomberg Philanthropies is launching a plan to start green energy initiatives helping local, state, and national stakeholders implement the EPA’s Clean Power Plan.

“With the price of clean power falling, and the potential costs of inaction on climate change steadily rising, the work of modernizing America’s power grid is both more feasible and urgent than ever. Pollution from power plants takes a terrible toll on public health, and it’s the biggest contributor to our carbon footprint. But smart investments can reduce it while also strengthening local economies,” said Michael R. Bloomberg.

Hopefully, these efforts from MIT and Bloomberg improve the environment while also spawning the economic development that helps the green energy movement expand.

If this work in environmental engineering inspires you to take your career to the next level, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As one of the top engineering staffing agencies in Washington State, we are a great source for Seattle engineering jobs. Schedule some time with us today!

The Growing Environmental Engineering Job Market

December 17th, 2014

As the intellect and skills of environmental engineers continue to be leveraged to help battle climate change, one positive impact is the growth of the environmental engineering job market. If you are interested in this engineering discipline or even if you currently work in the field, now is the time to explore opportunities to make a vital difference both locally and on a larger scale.

With that in mind, let’s explore the surge in environmental engineering jobs a bit more closely.

The Green Engineering Job Scene transcends Disciplines

Green engineering initiatives offer hope for an improved environment and they are also providing lucrative opportunities for companies innovating in many areas of engineering. Grant Trump, president and chief executive of Calgary-based Environmental Careers Organization (ECO Canada), feels this is due to the importance of green engineering techniques transcending traditional engineering sectors.

“Environmental employment is cross-sectoral and multi-disciplinary. We are the thread that links almost every industry sector in the Canadian economy, because almost every organization has environmental considerations,” said Trump.

Environmental Engineering Innovations abound in many Areas

Everything from waste water treatment to renewable energy benefits from the application of new engineering technology. This has created copious employment opportunities in many locations in the United States and Canada, including the Seattle area. Kathleen Lyons, editor of Green Job Idea Blog, remains bullish on the employment prospects of the environmental engineer.

“Employment in renewable energy, waste-water treatment, forestry and natural resources will grow, but so will adjunct areas such as finance, hospitality, building, skilled trades. In any industry there is an environmental twist. There is a green cast; a new view of the whole work environment. It’s a paradigm shift,” said Lyons.

In short, if you want a green-friendly engineering job, the market remains promising, so make it a point to edit your résumé and brush up on your interviewing skills!

Partnering with a top notch engineering staffing agency is a great call when looking for employment in any engineering sector. As one of the top employment agencies in Washington State, The Talley Group is a perfect source of Seattle green engineering jobs. Make it a point to talk with them today!

Skills to highlight on an Environmental Engineering Résumé

October 23rd, 2014

No matter the engineering discipline, your résumé is the most important piece in your job search arsenal. Environmental engineering is no exception to this fact — even in these days of LinkedIn. Making sure your CV stands out among the competition remains a key factor in ensuring you get the chance at landing a great position.

Needless to say, it is vital to author a résumé that highlights both your engineering abilities and professional experience. Hiring managers only take a minute or two to initially skim each candidate that comes across their desk. Let’s take a closer look at what skills to highlight on your environmental engineering résumé to make sure you get noticed.

Emphasize your Professional Engineering Experience

Obviously your performance while earning an engineering degree still holds some weight, especially if you earned honors in college, but professional experience trumps classroom work. Be sure to highlight your tangible professional experience — both significant and quantifiable accomplishments as well as the skills and abilities you bring to the table everyday on the job.

Certain specific environmental engineering skills that attract the eyes of hiring managers include abilities in pollution control technology, waste treatment techniques, and site remediation. Definitely stress your tangible achievements in these areas and use quantifiable data, such as “improved waste treatment efficacy by a factor of 23 percent.”

Companies want to hire Well-Rounded Environmental Engineers

Those general engineering skills found in all disciplines are also high in demand. Companies need well-rounded engineers who are able to combine the critical thinking and open-mindedness that enables them to develop new solutions to complex problems. If your work experience sports accomplishments that display these capabilities, emphasize them on your résumé.

Towards the top of your résumé should be a section that lists the skills that reflect both your hard environmental engineering abilities and the “soft” skills that make you a well-rounded engineer.

If you need any additional help with your environmental engineering job search, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As one of Washington’s top engineering staffing agencies, they are also a great source of Seattle engineering jobs. Make it a point to schedule time with them today!

Environmental Engineering Job | Career Paths

June 6th, 2014

The practice of environmental engineering continues to grow in importance with global climate challenges becoming paramount in the 21st Century. If you are a fledgling engineer looking for a lucrative field with benefits that go beyond simple financial considerations, maybe a career as an environmental engineer makes a good fit? Your engineering skills might mitigate the damage caused by an oil spill or help bring an electric car prototype successfully to the market.

Let’s take a look at the educational options to put your career squarely on the path towards becoming an environmental engineer:

What Environmental Engineering Degree do I need?

Generally, a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering qualifies you for entry-level employment at an engineer level. It is also possible to get a job as an environmental engineering technician with only an Associates degree. If you want the best possible chances for advancement, a bachelor’s degree is the way to go.

The median starting salary for an environmental engineer is around $80,000 per year. Engineering technicians make around half that salary, with a median of around $45,000 per year. Environmental engineers with at least five years of experience, who move into management, have the potential for a six-figure salary — the median salary is around $125,000 annually.

More Gender Equality in Environmental Engineering

Women engineers enjoy more gender equality in the world of environmental engineering. Females made up 43 percent of all environmental engineering graduates in 2011. This compares to 23 percent in computer software engineering and only 12 percent in mechanical engineering. In short, environmental engineering is less male-dominated than other engineering disciplines.

Most degree programs offer concentrations to allow graduates to focus on a particular area of environmental engineering. These include sustainable infrastructure, environmental nanotechnology, and environmental chemistry and soil physics. Many opportunities exist for engineers to specialize in something that inspires them, while still allowing for a lucrative salary.

If you are intrigued by the opportunities provided by environmental engineering for both personal and career growth, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As one of the top engineering staffing companies in Washington State, they are also a great source for Seattle engineering jobs. Schedule some time to meet with them today!

4 Ways to Brand your Environmental Engineering Firm Online

May 21st, 2014

A compelling online presence is a requirement for many industries, and environmental engineering is no exception. In fact, this statement made as much sense 10 years ago as it does today. Considering the rapid growth of social networking, mobile connectivity, and Cloud-based computing, engineering firms in all disciplines need to take the steps to properly brand their company online lest they run the risk of being an also-ran in their industry sector.

Let’s take a look at four easy ways to give your environmental engineering firm an online brand that gets noticed.

A LinkedIn Company Page is a Must

While LinkedIn is the dominant social network for individual professionals, companies and organizations are also able to set up their own LinkedIn pages. This is a great opportunity to gain additional publicity and networking for your company. Have members of your management team write articles on the site to position themselves and your organization as thought leaders in the world of environmental engineering.

Don’t Skimp on the Graphic Design

Spend extra resources on creating a company logo that gets your firm noticed. Leverage that design to re-architect the look and feel of your organization’s website. Remember that your website is still a vital aspect of your company’s online presence.

Don’t forget the Other Social Networks

While LinkedIn remains the most important social network for professionals, your company also needs a presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. An online marketing strategy must take advantage of the synergies between all four leading social networks. Sharing posts made on LinkedIn with your followers on the other networks extends their effectiveness.

Leverage Smart Usage of SEO

Smart use of search-engine optimization techniques helps to increase the reach of any posts and articles made by your company — anywhere on the Internet. Consider adding a blog to your website to provide more opportunities for potential customers to find your organization.

Expanding your company’s online brand is vital for your ultimate success. A competent and engaged workforce also plays a role. Talk to the engineering recruiting experts at The Talley Group for your staffing needs. As one of the top engineering staffing companies in Seattle, with a great supply of both Seattle engineering jobs and talented candidates, they can help ensure your organization’s success.

Firm Salaries Continue to Rise in the U.S.

March 20th, 2014

Salaries at engineering firms are seeing a nice recovery from the Great Recession so far in 2014. An industry study from ZweigWhite, made in a partnership with the American Council of Engineering Companies, looks at salary data by U.S. region, the firm’s specific industry specialty, and the job role. There is no doubt that this year is a good time to be either getting started, or already an experienced worker, in the engineering industry.

Let’s take a closer look at the survey data.

All Experience Levels seeing Engineering Salaries go Higher

A rising tide lifts all boats is the time-honored saying, and it appears to ring true for salary levels in engineering. The ZweigWhite study shows that everyone, from entry-level engineers to firm principals, is earning more so far this year. Project engineers, project managers, and departmental heads also see an increase earning rate.

The Northeast and South Atlantic, as well as the Central regions in the survey both show salary increases. The Mountain and Pacific combined region held steady, probably because engineering salaries in those regions already rank among the highest in the United States. Wherever your location in the United States — it pays well to be an engineer!

Environmental Engineering Jobs remain Lucrative

The environmental engineering discipline garnered special attention for salary growth in the ZweigWhite survey. The Central region noted an increase of 17 percent in the median base salary for environmental engineers for 2014 compared to the previous year. Firm principals for environmental engineering companies saw a 2014 salary increase of 12.7 percent compared to 2013’s numbers.

Project managers involved in the structural engineering discipline saw a median salary increase of more than 10 percent — from $81,640 in 2013 to $90,000 in the current year. Hopefully, the still improving economy bodes well for engineering salaries in 2015 and beyond.

If you are an environmental engineer fresh out of a college, or an experienced worker looking for career advancement, talk to the engineering staffing experts at The Talley Group. They are one of the top engineering recruiting firms in the Seattle area, with the unique capabilities to help you and your career no matter your specific discipline — environmental, structural, and more. Schedule some time with them today!

How Do I become Board-Certified in Environmental Engineering?

February 21st, 2014

Earning a certification is a one of the best things you can do to further your career in environmental engineering. The American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES) certifies qualified environmental engineers, and if you already hold a professional engineering license in your current state, the process for a full BCEE certification becomes easier. If not, attaining the Board Certified Environmental Engineering Member (BCEEM) certification is possible. Minimum Requirements for a BCEE Certification The basic requirements for your BCEE essentially include the following: A degree in environmental engineering or equivalent.

  • Be registered as a PE in your current state or country.
  • Currently hold a full-time position as an environmental engineer.
  • Have good moral character with a professional standing known for high integrity.

If you are considered a practice leader in your field, you can become certified through a nominating process called “Board Certification by Eminence” which also requires significant professional or academic experience (over 20 years) in the area of environmental engineering, with 10 of those years in leadership role. A record of service to the industry as well as honors and awards along combined with presentations and published work are also required. At least eight years of progressive work experience is required after you received either a Bachelors degree or a professional license. Some of that experience requirement can be waived if you’ve earned a Masters or PhD in a relevant discipline. Candidates with 16 years of progressive experience — or 12 years in a leadership role — can get their written exam requirement waived. The Process of Certification After submitting your application to the AAEES, their admission committee reviews the materials, verifying that the minimum requirements are met. Written and oral exams follow that must specify competence in one of eight areas of specialization within the environmental engineering field. The oral examination lasts one hour with parts covering professional practice issues in addition to technical problems in your specialty. If interested in attaining your certification, you should download a sample application package from the AAEES website. If you need further advice in furthering your career, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As one of the top engineering staffing agencies in the Northwest, they can help you find environmental engineering job opportunities in Seattle. Schedule some time with them today! JobBoard_CTA[2]

How to Use LinkedIn to Show Your Thought Leadership

December 18th, 2013

While it serves nicely as THE social network for business, LinkedIn is also a place where interested engineers are able to display their thought leadership. The site provides a platform for business leaders to share useful content about their specific industries or areas of expertise.

Here are a few steps that you can take to leverage LinkedIn to display your expertise in engineering — something that helps grow both your career and professional network.

Use your LinkedIn Profile as more than a Résumé

Be sure to regularly update your LinkedIn profile. Not necessarily with new work history or professional industry group memberships, but use it to publicize accomplishments. Things like professional papers, industry awards, and significant work milestones are perfect to enhance your profile. Also leverage the profile’s publications section to highlight relevant written work.

Frequently updating your profile with links to articles you’ve written and other similar activity helps draw traffic and leads to more connections and a larger network. These are good things when it comes time to look for a new position.

Reorder the Profile Sections to Suit your Purposes

LinkedIn allows you to add, delete, and reorder the different sections that make up a profile. If you are fresh out of college with a membership in the National Honor Society or another educational society, emphasize that fact by placing the education, courses, and test scores sections towards the front of your profile. Delete any sections that aren’t relevant as it helps keep the overall profile focused.

Obviously, if you’ve enjoyed a robust career with loads of relevant project experience, this information should lead off the profile. As mentioned earlier, enhancing the profile with publications you’ve written and significant work accomplishments helps you to stand out as a thought leader in engineering or any other field.

If you would like some additional advice on the best strategies for advancing your career in the engineering, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. Since they are one of the top engineering staffing companies in the Seattle area, they can provide the unique insight to help both your and your career. If you are looking for environmental engineering recruiters in Seattle, contact us today.

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