How to get a job in sustainability

Author
Darcy Nathan, Editor
Posted
April, 2025

With climate change and corporate responsibility becoming global priorities, sustainability careers are booming. Whether you're passionate about environmental protection, renewable energy, or ethical business, there's a place for you in this growing field

What is sustainability?

Sustainability is a broad concept, but at its core, it's about ensuring that we meet our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own.

This involves: 

  • advocating for social justice
  • ensuring economic responsibility
  • safeguarding resources.

As the awareness of climate change, resource depletion, and social inequalities increases, the demand for sustainability professionals is also on the rise. According to LinkedIn data, roles such as sustainability analysts, specialists, and managers have been among the fastest growing roles globally over the past five years. 

With approximately 639,400 workers, professionals in this field are involved in various sectors, including:

  • corporate social responsibility (CSR)
  • environmental policy
  • renewable energy
  • sustainable agriculture
  • waste management.

What are the key roles in sustainability?

Sustainability roles are increasingly integrated across various fields and sectors. As Rebecca Turner, senior manager in careers and education at the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) explains, 'According to a report by Deloitte, sustainability professionals are increasingly influencing business model decisions. Over the next decade, we predict an emerging green workforce in which every employee understands how sustainability can create economic value.'

Some sustainability-focused roles include:

  • Sustainability consultant - develops and implements sustainability initiatives within an organisation, aiming to balance environmental, social, and economic factors.
  • Corporate responsibility executive - assists with the delivery of the corporate responsibility strategy (CRS) with a focus on ensuring timely compliance with regulatory matters.
  • Environmental engineer - studies the environment to understand environmental issues and develop solutions.
  • Energy engineer - designs and implements energy-efficient systems and technologies.

Search for sustainability roles.

While a degree in sustainability or a related field can be highly beneficial, it's not essential. A strong foundation can be built through degrees in:

Specialised courses focusing on environmental policy, sustainable business, urban planning, or renewable energy can further enhance your expertise and open up career opportunities.

 Examples of relevant sustainability degrees include:

Many degrees incorporate social sciences like sociology and anthropology. As Rebecca notes, 'there are increasing job roles within social impact. Sustainability isn't just about the environment. Being socially inclusive helps to ensure equal opportunities to individuals worldwide, so that everyone can achieve their full potential.'

Furthermore, some programmes integrate management principles to prepare students for roles involving sustainability in business decision-making. This includes modules on:

  • economic models that consider environmental and social costs
  • supply chain management
  • sustainable business practices.

How do I get sustainability work experience?

Even if you have a directly related degree, work experience can be crucial when applying for jobs in the sustainability sector.

Volunteering

Offering your time for free is a fantastic way to learn firsthand. Explore opportunities with:

  • community gardens
  • local sustainability-focused events
  • wildlife trusts.

The Woodland Trust, for example, offers an environment monitor role where you can conduct ecological surveys both on-site and online, building crucial skills and demonstrating your commitment. If you're passionate about tackling plastic pollution, Keep Britain Tidy's Ocean Recovery Project lets you contribute to a circular economy by collecting and recycling beach plastics.

Internships

Numerous organisations provide sustainability internships, even for those without prior experience in the field. Explore opportunities on environmental job boards such as:

Major firms like PwC offer Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) internships in risk and deals, focusing on sustainable transformation and net-zero goals. Roche's Global Internship Programme in Innovation & Sustainability provides hands-on experience with real-world projects and work with senior leaders.

Search for internships in sustainability.

What skills do employers want?

Employers in the sustainability industry seek a blend of technical expertise and interpersonal skills. Many sustainability roles require influencing others and gaining buy-in for new initiatives, making strong leadership and collaboration essential. The ability to anticipate future sustainability trends and challenges is also highly valued.

Technical skills include:

  • sustainability literacy - a solid understanding of core sustainability principles, environmental science, and climate change.
  • data analysis - the ability to collect, analyse, and interpret data to measure the environmental impact of practices and identify areas for improvement.
  • knowledge of frameworks - familiarity with frameworks like B Corp, demonstrating understanding of best practices.

Communicating complex sustainability concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences is vital. Given the complexity of sustainability challenges, employers seek individuals who can:

  • analyse situations
  • identify root causes
  • develop creative solutions.

The importance of data analysis and reporting is increasing, driven by the need for transparency and accountability. Effective communication and stakeholder engagement are crucial for driving sustainable change.

When applying for a job, emphasise skills and experiences relevant to the specific job description. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Also, express your genuine interest in sustainability and the company's efforts.

For more information about landing a sustainability job, see a guide to sustainable careers.

How do I apply for a job in sustainability?

As sustainability is a feature of most industries, you should broaden your search beyond traditional environmental organisations. Use keywords like 'sustainability manager,' 'ESG,' or 'circular economy' for targeted results.

Specialist job boards can be valuable resources. Try searching for vacancies on:

Additionally, explore career pages of companies with strong sustainability commitments and network at industry events.

Tailor your CV and cover letter to each role, highlighting relevant:

  • skills
  • experience
  • education.

In interviews, demonstrate your understanding of current sustainability trends, challenges, and policies. Be prepared to discuss your problem-solving abilities and passion. Emphasise transferable skills like communication, project management, and analysis, illustrating their relevance to sustainability roles.

How much can I be paid working in sustainability?

Salaries within the sustainability field are variable, determined by factors including:

  • specific job role
  • experience level
  • location
  • qualifications.

In the UK, for example, entry-level sustainability consultants can expect starting salaries between £20,000 and £25,000, rising to between £28,000 and £60,000 for senior positions.

Sustainability managers average around £49,300 annually. Overall, the average salary for sustainability jobs in the UK is approximately £37,500.

For more details on salaries in the sector, see our environment and agriculture job profiles.

How do I get into sustainability consulting?

Starting with entry-level experience in environmental, CSR, or sustainability-focused roles is crucial for building a strong foundation. To enhance your qualifications for consulting positions, consider a Masters degree in sustainability or a related field.

For example, the MSc Sustainability and Management at the University of Bath equips graduates from diverse backgrounds with managerial skills focused on sustainability. The course includes modules like a company consultancy project and sustainable operations management, alongside networking and international business challenge opportunities.

Alternatively, the MSc Sustainability and Consultancy from the University of Leeds covers sustainability principles, project management, and consultancy skills. Students gain practical experience through real-world consulting projects with industry partners. The programme is accredited by the IEMA.

For more information, see sustainability consultant.

What professional qualifications can I get in sustainability?

In the rapidly evolving field of sustainability, continuing professional development (CPD) is a necessity. The nature of environmental science, policy, and technology means that professionals need to keep updated. 

One way to boost your qualifications is through professional certifications. Courses like the Certified Sustainability (ESG) Practitioner offered by the Centre for Sustainability and Excellence (CSE) give you the training and exams to prove your expertise in implementing sustainability strategies.

You can also explore general sustainability certifications such as the Sustainability Accounting Professional from the IFRS or the Sustainability Excellence Professional from the ISSP, which are particularly valuable for consultants.

'Membership of a professional body such as the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (IEMA) - soon to be The Institute of Sustainability & Environmental Professionals - can really help individuals to stand out in their application, as it shows dedication and commitment to the profession. Many roles require some level of professional recognition and job adverts sometimes state this as desirable in the specification,' explains Rebecca.

Find out more

Written by Darcy Nathan, Editor

Prospects · April 2025

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