How to Find Environmental and Sustainability Jobs in Australia

A recent report from Jobs and Skills Australia highlights that green collar jobs are on the rise. With governments, businesses, and communities investing in renewable energy, waste reduction, and circular economy initiatives, green collar jobs offer career pathways that help tackle environmental challenges and deliver solutions. For many, the appeal lies in aligning professional skills with a greater purpose such as building healthier communities, driving innovation, and ensuring a just transition toward a low-waste, low-carbon future.

In this blog post, I’m going to share how to find a job in the waste, environmental, and sustainability sectors in Australia without needing a specific environmental degree.

I don't have a degree or experience in any of these areas, and I'm unsure if I want to go back to study!

That's OK! it’s important to remember that these fields are broad, with organisations needing a wide range of skills. Everything from administration, marketing, and accounting to delivery driving, event management, retail, and research. If you’d like to build your knowledge through study, many Australian universities, TAFEs, and independent colleges offer flexible short courses that run anywhere from six weeks to a year. Earning a degree or certificate in environmental science or sustainability can be an advantage for certain roles in the waste, environment, and sustainability sectors but may not be necessary for you. See what skills you already have that can be used.

Where to search for jobs in the waste, environmental, and sustainability sectors in Australia?

Here is a round up job sites to get your started:

• Ethical Jobs 
• NRMjobs
• Green Career
• Pro Bono
• Environmental Jobs Network

If you’re looking for opportunities through Federal and State Government, you can browse their official job portals. Mainstream job sites such as Seek, Indeed, CareerOne, and LinkedIn also list roles in waste, environment, and sustainability. However, I recommend platforms like Ethical Jobs, NRMjobs, Green Career, Pro Bono, and the Environmental Jobs Network, as they not only filter listings for these sectors but also prioritise and promote ethically aligned organisations.

Remember, you don’t necessarily need to quit your job to make a difference. Think about how you can bring your passion for sustainability and the environment into your current role. You could host a lunch-and-learn for colleagues, have a conversation with your manager about ways to improve the organisation’s environmental impact, or even suggest a sustainability course that benefits both you and the business.

If you want to explore the environmental and sustainability sector at your own pace, consider volunteering. Check out my blog post for tips on how to get started in volunteering. Another option is to apply for a board position through the Community Directors website.

Finding a role in Australia’s waste, environmental, and sustainability sectors doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re leveraging existing skills, exploring volunteer opportunities, or taking a short course, there are many pathways to make a meaningful impact. The key is to take the first step. Start exploring job boards, reach out to organisations, and think creatively about how you can contribute to a greener future. Every small action counts, and your skills and passion can help drive positive change.

If there are other tips or strategies for finding work in Australia’s waste, environment, or sustainability fields that I haven’t mentioned, I’d love to hear them in the comments.

photo by pexels