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

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!