Environmental Activism Careers

What does it mean to have a career in Environmental Activism?

Careers in environmental activism require people with a powerful passion for the upkeep of the Earth’s lands and oceans. Here, people make global movements to ensure the health of the planet for future generations. This includes forming large trash collection groups, protecting current forests as well as planting new ones, safeguarding habitats of endangered species, and much more. 

These careers are fundamental to protecting the Earth and the life forms that it homes. By protecting the environment, we can enjoy the beauties and wonders of nature, and we can show that we are able to all work together for a common cause. 

What kind of jobs can you get as an Environmental Activist?

Despite policy setbacks, environmental careers remain some of the most in demand. Climate change activism among college students along with the alternative energy sectors fast growth has fueled an interest in green jobs. Environmental careers can also offer fulfillment, job stability, and high social impact. Below are just a few of the in demand green jobs today.

  • Alternative Energy Jobs
    • Area of Study Required: PV installation/On-the-job training
    • Degree Level Required: High school diploma
    • Median Annual Salary: $42,680
    • Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028): 63%
  • Environmental Science Jobs
    • Area of Study Required: Environmental science
    • Degree Level Required: Bachelor’s degree
    • Median Annual Salary: $71,130
    • Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028): 8%
  • Sustainable Agriculture Jobs
    • Area of Study Required: Agriculture science, Biology, Chemistry, Botany, or Plant conversation
    • Degree Level Required: Bachelor’s degree
    • Median Annual Salary: $64,000
    • Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028): 7%
  • Careers in Atmospheric and Earth Sciences
    • Area of Study Required: Meteorology or related Earth sciences field
    • Degree Level Required: Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s for research positions
    • Median Annual Salary: $94,110
    • Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028): 8%
Women discussing in forest
Service botanist Mara Alexander talks with UNCA student Natriefia Miller by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region , CC BY 2.0, via Flickr

Training Courses

Not looking for a career but want to learn more about activism and climate change? Check out some of these free online training courses and start learning today!

Permacrafters

Our mission is to share self-reliance skills and encourage creative thinking through permaculture for a abundant  and fruitful life. 

NPS Climate Training 

The NPS has provided a free self-study course in Interpreting Climate Change to work through at the learner’s own pace. The course consists of four Modules, featuring both a learning companion and study guide

Climate Change Science and Modeling

What You Need to Know” gives a brief overview of the climate system, greenhouse gases, climate models, current climate change impacts, and future projections.

Job Listings

Here are a few job searching websites to get you started.