Environmental management has gained more prominence as a corporate issue for all sectors. As issues of climate change, pollution, and scarcity of resources continue to raise concerns, there is a need for proper environmental management as well as sustainability practices. It is here that the EMS and the auditors of an environmental management system have a significant role.
EMS is a systematic process that provides organizations with the tools to track, control and reduce their environmental impact. It presents a structured approach to allow organizations set environmental targets, design plans for achieving these goals and evaluate the progress made. There are significant benefits for environmental professionals in building a career as a certified EMS Auditor, here are some mentioned below:
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A high demand for skilled EMS auditors.
However, with the worldwide acceptance of ISO 14001 and other EMS standard in use globally, there is a high demand for competent EMS auditors who can audit these systems well. According to a 2021 ISO survey, there has been more than 12% growth in ISO Certifications since the previous year. This growth is predicted to persist in the near future because more organizations will see value in implementing EMS.
If companies want to get ISO 14001 or other EMS Certification, they need certified auditors that can verify the compliance of their systems. These kinds of audits are usually performed by EMS auditors hired from several consulting firms and certification bodies. Establishing competency and reputation as an EMS auditor can present a plethora of career opportunities in this fast-growing industry.
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Salary and remuneration
EMS auditors, especially those certified for ISO 14001 audits, can earn a lucrative pay package from organizations. On average, an EMS auditor in the United States earns around $72,000 annually. With some years of experience, this can go up significantly. EMS auditing skills are niche and in high demand. Certified auditors often get to choose their auditing assignments and charge premium rates for their auditing services from companies. Many experienced EMS auditors earn well over six-figure incomes by working as freelance auditors.
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Global travel opportunities
A career as an EMS auditor offers opportunities for frequent travel to diverse global locations. EMS auditors are required to perform onsite audits at the organization’s facilities. These audits may require traveling to different cities or countries, depending on client locations. By working with different companies, EMS auditors can travel to exotic locations to conduct their audits. Many auditors consider this one of the major perks of their profession.
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Continuous Professional Development
A career as an EMS auditor requires continuous learning and skill development. Auditors need to constantly keep themselves updated with the latest version of ISO 14001 and other EMS standards published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). They need to develop expertise in new environmental management tools and techniques. Attending training courses, seminars, and conferences is critical for the professional development of an auditor. For many auditors, this learning is an enjoyable part of their work. It helps them expand their knowledge domain and grow their career.
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Flexible Work-Life Balance
Most EMS auditors enjoy flexibility in their work schedule. They can choose to work as a full-time auditor with an organization or consulting firm. Many auditors also work as freelance auditors and take on assignments based on their schedule and availability. Such flexibility in work arrangements is advantageous for auditors who want to maintain a harmonious work-life balance, especially when they have personal or family commitments. Maintaining this balance is vital for managing stress and delivering consistent, high-quality audits.
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Networking Opportunities
EMS auditing involves interfacing with professionals across multiple functions in an organization, such as EHS managers, operations heads, top management, etc. It provides an opportunity for auditors to build relationships with industry veterans and expand their professional network. Many auditors leverage these networks to build credibility and secure more rewarding career opportunities. Networking is an enjoyable aspect of the job for outgoing auditors who appreciate connecting with diverse professionals.
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Employability Across Sectors
The skills and competencies gained by EMS auditors are valued across multiple industries. An experienced EMS auditor can find job opportunities in manufacturing, oil and gas, the food industry, construction, healthcare, hospitality, or any sector implementing EMS as per ISO 14001. For professionals who get bored working in the same industry, EMS auditing offers variety by enabling them to shift sectors using their transferable auditing skills. This versatility adds to their career stability and earning potential.
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Opportunity to Contribute to Sustainability
For environmentally conscious professionals, an EMS auditor career provides the opportunity to directly contribute to environmental sustainability. By auditing EMS as per ISO 14001, they help organizations improve their environmental performance and reduce adverse impacts. Many auditors find this focus on sustainability fulfilling at a personal level. Through their work, they assist organizations in embedding environmentally responsible business practices. This moral incentive can be satisfying for many individuals who value environmental conservation.
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Development of multidisciplinary skills
A competent EMS auditor needs to have a diverse set of both hard and soft skills. Technical skills like understanding environmental aspects and knowledge of tools like life cycle assessment are needed. Auditors also need communication, teamwork, analytical thinking, and diplomacy skills. Mastering this comprehensive range of skills required for EMS auditing helps in the holistic development of an auditor. It expands their skillset and prepares them for advanced career opportunities beyond just EMS auditing.
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Opportunity to Lead and Mentor Teams
During an audit assignment, senior EMS auditors are usually tasked with leading teams. They have chance to organize audits, distribute roles within the team and control work of its members. This develops leadership, delegation as well as conflict resolution abilities. Senior auditors also get chances to train and guide young auditors and trainees. Through training others, auditors not only improve their knowledge and skills but also receive satisfaction in aiding the professional growth of team members.
Conclusion
The career as an EMS auditor has multiple advantages. It offers high-paying jobs in a fast-growing area with huge need for qualified auditors. EMS auditors have opportunities to travel, remain dynamic in their development and participate actively in sustainability. They also acquire a flexible multidisciplinary skill set that is applicable in various industries. For environmental professionals, becoming a certified EMS auditor from a reputed organization like INTERCERT can be a rewarding long-term career choice offering personal and professional enrichment.