Find a Green Job in 2010

February 4, 2010 by Julie Urlaub
Filed under Business, • Feature

Whether currently employed or looking for work, there is a new generation of professionals seeking to leverage their education and experience to promote eco awareness and business sustainability in the workplace. The question is, “Where do you go to find “green” jobs”?

First, pursuing a “green” career is a natural extension of living an eco friendly lifestyle. Those embracing eco awareness in their lives, naturally seek to have that expressed in the workplace.

In my sustainability consulting, I’ve noticed there are individuals seeking existing green jobs, some want to create their own environmental business, while others prefer to transform their current roles by integrating sustainability concepts in to their workplace. Regardless of the intent, there are several paths towards a green job.

Currently employed:

Keep in mind, every job is a green job: it’s all in how you do it. Granted, there are designated “green” jobs out there. However, if it is making an impact and making a difference that you are truly after, then transforming your current job into a green job is the ticket. How to do it?

In your current position, be the change you aim to see.
Become involved in projects and activities that embrace green concepts and promote business sustainability. If your company has a sustainability program, this is a great place to start.
Consider your approach to your current position. No one knows your job better than you. You have a better chance of discovering ways to improve processes and integrate efficiency, waste management, and other green principals more than anyone. Perform your job from the perspective of how can I do my job in a more eco friendly manner.
Take eco action in your daily activities: recycle, commit to paperless, share with others what you are doing and why you are doing it and get them involved.
Engage management by incorporating sustainability concepts in your personal development plan.
Take on new green roles and projects in the organization: start a recycling program, lead a paper free initiative, host a lunch and learn providing local and organic foods
Become the “go-to” person for all things green.
Expand your corporate green network: engage in internal business activities, networking events, internal and external training, professional organizations, and business communities. An easy option to engage in your company’s community outreach programs.

Job Seekers:

Utilize traditional companies: Begin by listing companies that you are familiar with or that you have expressed interest in employment. Visit their websites to identify the company values, determine if there is a sustainability plan or environmental business section. The goal here is to confirm your values and those of the company match up. If so, apply for a posted position and during the interview process, distinguish yourself from other candidates with your intent, actions, and commitment you can apply to that position that promotes and accelerates eco awareness and the environmental policy of the company.
Leverage social media to connect with other sustainability likeminded folks. Learn about where are they working or how they found their green job. For example, participate in environmental businesses, and green tech groups on LinkedIn.

Finally, check out the job boards. Listed are several places to get you started in your pursuit of sustainable employment.

With a desire to extend green living to the workplace, there are employment options available to you. Make 2010 a green year!

About: Julie:
Julie Urlaub: Founder and Managing Partner of Taiga Company, Julie began her career campaigning for clean air legislation with Citizen Action in Washington, D.C. Expanding into Energy Management Services and later, a small business owner in the Oil and Gas Industry, Julie leverages over 15 years of Consulting and Business Development experience in the Energy, Medical, and Information Technology industries. Today, as a sustainability consultant, Julie speaks, writes, and advises clients on a variety of issues related to the intersection between environmental stewardship, sustainable business practices, and sustainable living. www.taigacompany.com

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