Environmental Technician (Co-op and Non Co-op Version) at Algonquin College

Preserve the present for the future - Explore a career in the environmental sciences.

The two-year Environmental Technician program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, offers theoretical and extensive practical education in all areas of environmental sciences.

You explore the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physical science and engineering as you learn to collect, measure and analyze variables commonly considered in environmental studies. Gain field and laboratory experience in soil, water and air testing as you develop a basic knowledge of:

• freshwater environment systems
• soils and land forms
• the chemistry of pollutants
• ecological processes

Use the appropriate tools and equipment needed in biology, hydrology, ecological field sampling and analytical chemistry.

This program includes applied research projects that allow you to apply skills and theory to real environmental issues, all while supporting important community initiatives, such as:

• water quality monitoring and implementation of agricultural best management practices in the Muskrat Lake watershed
• soil testing, weather/climate monitoring and pest/disease surveying for a local vineyard.

Benefit from the opportunity to gain more than 20 certifications in various preferred specialties including provincial certification in water and wastewater operation, electrofishing, and geospatial analysis.

Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability. Students who elect to apply to the non co-op version of the program may not have the opportunity to transfer to the co-op version at a later date.

Upon graduation, you are ready to help meet the current and growing need for skilled entry-level practitioners within the environmental sciences sector. Graduates may find entry-level employment in roles such as:

• remediation technician
• field sampling technician
• geographical information systems (GIS) technician
• contaminated site assessor
• environmental assessor
• water and wastewater facility operator
• environmental consultant

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Seek an active, outdoor, hands-on learning environment.
• Are eager to measure, monitor, protect and improve the environment.
• Want to become familiar with both field and laboratory methods used broadly in the environmental sector.

Careers

Graduates may find entry-level employment in the compliance and promotion sectors, as remediation technicians, in the areas of water and wastewater treatment operations, as contaminated site assessment technicians or working within the consulting industry as environmental practitioners.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Collect representative environmental samples and perform routine tests, using current and relevant tools.
2. Use scientific concepts and models when contributing to the prevention, control and elimination of environmental hazards and remediation of contaminated sites.
3. Assist with analysis of water/soil/air samples and with the resolution of environmental problems through the application of scientific and engineering principles.
4. Follow standard procedures for conducting environmental sampling projects including the use of appropriate equipment and materials.
5. Promote and maintain sustainable practices by applying the elements of ecosystem-based management.
6. Carry out work responsibilities adhering to standards of professional conduct and principles of professional ethics.
7. Complete assigned tasks in adherence to occupational health and safety standards and applicable legislative requirements.
8. Follow established protocols in support of environmental management systems.
9. Provide ongoing support for project management.
10. Communicate technical information accurately and effectively in oral, written, visual and electronic forms.
11. Develop and present strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance performance as an environmental technician.
12. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Program Eligibility

• English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
• Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
• Biology Grade 11 or 12 is strongly recommended
• Chemistry Grade 11 or 12 is strongly recommended.
• Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
• IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20.