To work as a sustainability specialist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have at least an associate degree in sustainability or a related field.

Education after high school

Most people prepare for this occupation by getting an associate or bachelor's degree in sustainability. This prepares you to work with the various organizations needed to reduce the environmental impact of human activity. As an undergraduate you study environmental politics, energy analysis, and sustainable practices.

English courses are helpful for writing research and technical reports. Take business courses to learn how to coordinate project management goals and tasks. Algebra and statistics courses can help you solve mathematical problems.

Work experience

Experience working with administration, project management, and public outreach is good background for this occupation.

On-the-job training

It is common for newly hired sustainability specialists to receive some on-the-job training. This varies by employer. Each organization will have its own unique way of approaching sustainability issues.