5 Sustainability Careers to Consider

Students interested in beginning a career in sustainability can take heart knowing that they’re joining the field at a moment when their skills are in high demand. The demand for workers with “green skills” will outpace the supply of workers who hold such skills by 2026, according to LinkedIn. Hiring for sustainability careers is growing faster than careers in other non-green fields. Those looking for a career in sustainability will find a wealth of opportunities.

But first, students need to develop those green skills. Earning a Master of Arts in Sustainability Leadership not only helps them gain the necessary expertise but also enables them to plan for their futures as leaders of the sustainability sector.

5 Sustainability Careers Making a Difference

Fields from transportation to policy analysis are quickly becoming more and more focused on sustainability, and there are many careers that have sustainability at their core. This list of sustainability careers making a difference today only scratches the surface of what’s out there for students interested in working toward a greener future.

Global Sustainability Director

Global sustainability directors focus on the three pillars of global sustainability: economic development, ecological development, and social equity. These senior leaders are responsible for developing and implementing sustainable strategies. They oversee projects and programs tied to sustainability goals, monitor these programs’ progress, and report their findings to stakeholders, government agencies, media, and other interested parties.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median yearly salary for sustainability directors was about $120,200 as of November 2024, according to Payscale. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says the number of positions for top executives, like sustainability directors, is expected to increase by 6% between 2023 and 2033, outpacing the national average.

Education, Experience, and Necessary Skills

While a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, sustainability, or a related field is required for this role, a master’s degree in a similar field is preferred. It generally takes at least five to six years of experience in sustainability initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and project management to reach this level. Skills required for the role include:

• Leadership
• Communication
• Analysis
• Project Management

Environmental Consultant

Environmental consultants work with various industries, from consumer goods to public transportation, to determine the ecological impact of a company or its processes. They may work internally or be brought on for a particular project. They identify environmental risks and work with stakeholders to develop initiatives that address environmental concerns.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median annual salary for environmental consultants was about $66,000 as of December 2024, although experienced consultants can make up to $126,000, according to Payscale. The BLS projects that the number of positions for environmental scientists and specialists, including environmental consultants, is expected to grow 7% between 2023 and 2033, outpacing the national average.

Education, Experience, and Necessary Skills

Environmental consultants need at least a bachelor’s in environmental science, engineering, or a related field. However, a master’s degree in a similar field can help the consultant become more experienced and reach higher salary levels. They should also have experience in sustainability and risk analysis. Skills necessary for the position include:

• Analysis
• Environmental Compliance
• Communication
• Technical Writing

Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists study ecological impact. They conduct research to protect the environment or human health and recommend courses of action. They identify and evaluate existing or potential environmental problems and then work to develop solutions. There are a wide variety of types of environmental scientists, such as climate change analysts and environmental health and safety specialists.

Salary and Job Outlook

According to the BLS, the median annual pay for environmental scientists and specialists was $78,980 as of May 2023. The BLS predicts that the number of available positions is expected to increase by 7% between 2023 and 2033, outpacing the national average.

Education, Experience, and Necessary Skills

Environmental scientists need at least a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field. However, a master’s degree in a green field may help them move up from a scientist to a specialist or a team lead. Necessary skills include:

• Analysis
• Communication
• Interpersonal Skills

Urban Planner

Modern urban planning requires green skills, and the role of urban planner is increasingly considered a sustainability career. These sustainability pros develop comprehensive plans and programs for the use of land, facilities, and natural resources in metropolitan areas. The plans that they create must be sustainable for the area to be able to maintain itself or grow.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median annual salary for urban and regional planners as of May 2023 was $81,800, according to the BLS. This career is projected to grow 4% between 2023 and 2033, which is in line with the national average.

Education, Experience, and Necessary Skills

Urban planners need a master’s degree in urban planning, sustainability leadership, architecture, or a related field. Some employers may also want the urban planner to be certified by agencies such as the American Institute of Certified Planners. They also should have experience in architecture, public policy, economic development, and sustainability initiatives. Skills needed to work as an urban planner include:

• Analysis
• Leadership
• Problem-Solving
• Communication

Sustainability Project Manager

Sustainability project managers are a type of project management specialist. They coordinate the budget, schedule, assignments, and overall details of projects that support sustainability initiatives. They develop the project plans, identify needs, assign responsibilities, monitor the project’s progress, and report the successes of the project to clients and other stakeholders.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median salary for sustainability managers with project management skills was $95,300 as of October 2024, according to Payscale. The BLS reports that the number of positions for project management specialists, including those working in sustainability, is projected to grow 7% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the national average.

Education, Experience, and Necessary Skills

Sustainability project managers need at least a bachelor’s in environmental science, sustainability, or a related field, though they may also focus their studies on project management with a concentration in sustainability. However, many employers prefer a master’s degree. Applicants also need prior experience working in project management and on sustainability initiatives. Skills needed for this role include:

• Leadership
• Organization
• Resource Management
• Financial Management

Cultivate a New Career in Sustainability

Sustainability careers are growing, and now is the ideal time to begin developing green skills. Claremont Lincoln University’s online Master of Arts in Sustainability Leadership offers students both a foundation in environmental science and policy as well as training in leadership and management.

Through courses like Impact Assessment, Sustainable Resource Management, and Strategic Communication: Building Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, these students work to become champions for change.

Lead the way to a brighter, greener future with CLU.