How to find a Green Job

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"?

As a professional consultant, I have expressed to clients that pursing a "green" career is a natural extension of living a sustainable 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 to supporting business sustainability.

For those individuals looking for sustainable employment, following is guidance I have offered to others in my sustainability consulting.

Currently employed:

In your current position, be the change you aim to see.
Become involved in projects and activities that embrace sustainability concepts and promote business sustainability. If your company has a sustainability program, this is a great place to start.

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 a sustainable lifestyle to the workplace, there are employment options available to you. As a sustainability consultant, I encourage you to make a powerful choice: choose meaningful work for yourself and a company that stands for the environment.