Are you passionate about protecting the environment? Do you have a knack for research and data gathering? Consider a career as an environmental auditor! In this article, we will explore the role of environmental auditors, their duties, working conditions, and the skills required for success in this field.
Environmental auditors are responsible for assessing the environmental performance of businesses and industries. Their primary objective is to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and standards, as well as identify any potential issues or deficiencies in environmental management systems.
1. Conducting Compliance Audits: Environmental auditors assess how well businesses meet environmental legislation, guidelines, and internal company standards.
2. Performing Management System Audits: They measure the effectiveness and adequacy of management system controls or assess conformance to management system criteria.
3. Reviewing Operations: Auditors analyze the overall operations of the businesses they assess.
4. Data Gathering: They collect data through questionnaires, on-site inspections, document reviews, and interviews.
5. Record Examination: Auditors review clients' records to ensure compliance with government permits and requirements, safety standards, maintenance, and inventory control measures.
6. Assessing Management Systems: They review management systems, emergency preparedness and response procedures, employee training, environmental monitoring programs, and waste management efforts.
Environmental auditors primarily work in offices when conducting data analysis, researching policies and regulations, and preparing presentations. However, they also visit manufacturing plants to interview employees, gather data, and assess operations. Inspecting industrial sites may require travel.
To succeed in this profession, environmental auditors should possess the following skills and traits:
1. Impartiality: Auditors should remain unbiased and neutral in their assessments.
2. Open-mindedness: They should be willing to consider different perspectives and adapt their approach accordingly.
3. Tact: Auditors need to navigate sensitive situations while effectively communicating their findings and recommendations.
4. Observance and Perceptiveness: A keen eye for detail and the ability to identify potential environmental issues are crucial.
5. Adaptability: Being able to adjust to various work environments and challenges is essential.
6. Persistence: Auditors should be determined to uncover any compliance problems or management system deficiencies.
- 2006 NOC: Inspectors in Public and Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety (2263)
- 2006 NOC-S: Inspectors in Public and Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety (C163)
- 2011 NOC: Inspectors in Public and Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety (2263)
- 2016 NOC: Inspectors in Public and Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety (2263)
A career as an environmental auditor offers the opportunity to contribute to environmental protection while utilizing research and analytical skills. With the demand for environmental auditors on the rise, this profession provides a rewarding and fulfilling path for those passionate about sustainability and safeguarding our planet.