Requirements
To become an environmental project manager, one needs to have a BS in geology, environmental science, or engineering. Membership with IEEM or IEMA is advantageous. Employers typically look for candidates with four to five years of site characterization and remediation experience. Proven experience in the environmental field, nature conservation, or ecology, preferably within a consultancy, is an additional benefit.
The ability to meet tight deadlines within a busy ecology team is essential. Environmental project managers’ duties also include preparation of tender documents along with financial briefs. Good writing, communication, and IT skills, especially as they pertain to the use of GIS, are advantageous as well.
The Structure of a Typical Environmental Project
The environmental project starts with the initiation, which determines the scope and the nature of the project. A conceptual design is prepared, and an estimate chart for the costs, tasks, and deliverables is taken into account. Next is the planning and design stage, and then comes the project’s execution.
Once the work is completed, it is monitored for results through various measurement options. The formal acceptance of the ending of the project is called its closing, which signals the conclusion of the project in all respects.
Project management tools include:
- Financial tools
- PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) and the Gantt chart
- Project cycle optimization
- Project management software
- Event chain diagrams and RACI diagrams
The project manager is expected to help preserve property and surrounding properties from damage. He or she conducts interviews with property owners, key site personnel, and local government officials to obtain information concerning environmental conditions and their impact on property.
The project manager also performs screenings for the presence of asbestos, lead-based paint, radon, and lead in drinking water. Additional responsibilities of environmental project managers include client satisfaction, helping with proposal development, and development of pricing and cost strategies.
The Latest Trends
Many companies provide support across several environmental and social issues faced by businesses, industries, landowners, and their supply chains. According to Gartner’s predictions for the future of environmental project management, as quoted by Paul Giammalvo, a writer for PMFORUM.org, IT will in the future “go green,” and there will be integrative and interactive roles played by assets, operations, and environmental project managers. The use of open-source technology will also gain momentum in the near future, according to predictions.
Conclusion
Environmental project manager jobs demand tough role models and leaders with significant expertise in environmental science and ecology. By contributing to the development of sustainable approaches, these individuals work to ensure a greener tomorrow.
