Key facts
- ANZSCO Code
- 233915
- Skill Level
- 1
- Occupation Lists
- MLTSSL
Overview
Environmental engineering is a growing field in Australia, driven by increasing regulation, sustainability targets, climate adaptation, and the remediation requirements of the mining and resources sector. Environmental engineers work on contaminated site remediation, water and wastewater treatment, air quality management, waste management, and environmental impact assessments.
Australia's commitment to net-zero emissions and circular economy principles is expanding the profession's scope. The intersection of environmental engineering with renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure is creating new specialisations.
Skills Assessment
Your assessing authority is Engineers Australia. Environmental engineering falls under their standard assessment pathway. CDR is required if your degree is not from a Washington Accord institution.
ANZSCO code: 233915
Processing takes 2 to 3 months. Career episodes should demonstrate your environmental engineering competencies, such as impact assessments, remediation design, treatment system design, or environmental monitoring programs.
Eligible Visas
Environmental Engineer (233915) is on the MLTSSL:
- Subclass 189, 190, 491 (skilled migration)
- Subclass 482, 186 (employer-sponsored)
Job Market
Salary range: AUD 80,000 to 130,000. Consulting firms are the largest employers, followed by government agencies (EPA, water authorities), mining companies, and infrastructure developers. Senior environmental engineers with project management experience can earn AUD 140,000 to 160,000.
Sydney and Melbourne have the largest consulting markets. Brisbane and Perth offer mining-related environmental work. Every state government employs environmental engineers in regulatory and planning roles.
Tips
- Australian environmental legislation is state-based, so familiarise yourself with the regulatory framework of your target state (e.g., NSW EPA, Victorian EPA, WA DWER).
- Contaminated site assessment and remediation (NEPM framework) is a strong niche. If you have this experience, highlight it.
- Environmental consulting firms (GHD, WSP, Jacobs, Aurecon, AECOM) are major employers and often sponsor skilled workers.
- Understanding Aboriginal cultural heritage considerations in environmental assessments is increasingly important and valued by employers.
Frequently asked questions
Is environmental engineering growing in Australia?
Yes. The sector is growing due to stricter environmental regulations, net-zero commitments, mine closure and remediation requirements, and the expansion of renewable energy projects that require environmental impact assessments. It is one of the faster-growing engineering specialisations.
Which consulting firms hire environmental engineers?
Major firms include GHD, WSP, Jacobs, Aurecon, AECOM, and Arcadis. There are also many smaller specialist environmental consultancies. Government agencies (state EPAs, water authorities) and mining companies also employ environmental engineers directly.
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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.