Air Pollution Control Engineer

Air pollution control engineers research atmospheric emissions and develop responses to air pollution. They evaluate the impact of hazards and design regulations and procedures to prevent or reduce harmful emissions. They further provide technical support for civil, environmental and litigation projects and provide input into and develop air quality policies and strategies.

Air pollution control engineers often collaborate with environmental scientists, urban planners, hazardous waste technicians, engineers from other disciplines and even law and business professionals. They often visit sites of interest returning to office environments to develop plans and reports.

Skills

Air pollution control engineers must have the skills to analyse and understand pollution levels and have a solid understanding of pollution control techniques. They also need extensive knowledge of air quality policies and regulations, coupled with: 

• Ability to apply engineering principles related to air pollution
• Logical analytical and problem-solving ability
• Strong project management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills
  

Tasks

Evaluate and model air pollution sources

Monitor emissions and compliance with applicable regulations

Design and implement air quality procedures and processes

Advise on procedures for the mitigation or remediation of air pollution sites

Studies

B.Sc.Eng. in Civil Engineering at UCT, UKZN and Wits

B.Eng. in Civil Engineering at SU, UJ and UP

Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Civil Engineering at CPUT, CUT, DUT, MUT, TUT, UNISA, VUT and WSU

Employers

National, provincial and local government.

NGOs and private consultancies.

Research institutions.