How To Become a Sustainability Manager: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many aspiring professionals find it challenging to find a clear path toward a career in sustainability management. Despite growing interest in environmental issues, many face hurdles translating academic knowledge into real-world impact—and aligning sustainability goals with business priorities often feels out of reach.

With employment for environmental specialists expected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, the demand for professionals who can turn sustainability into business value is only rising. This article will guide undergraduates and mid-career professionals through the process of becoming a sustainability manager. Developed by career planning experts, it offers actionable insights to help readers move forward with purpose and clarity.

Key Things You Should Know About Being a Sustainability Manager

Role and responsibilities – Sustainability managers lead efforts to reduce environmental impact while ensuring companies stay profitable and compliant.
Educational path – Most start with a bachelor's degree in environmental science, business, or engineering, followed by hands-on experience and, optionally, a graduate degree.
Core skills – Key abilities include strategic planning, systems analysis, data interpretation, communication, and leadership.
Certification value – Credentials like CSMP or CEM® boost your credibility, job readiness, and professional network.
Career outlook – The job market is growing steadily, fueled by global climate goals and the rising demand for sustainable business strategies.

What does a sustainability manager do?
What education do you need to become a sustainability manager?
What skills are needed to succeed in sustainability management?
What certifications help in becoming a sustainability manager?
How long does it take to become a sustainability manager?
What are the top sustainability career paths for 2025?
How much do sustainability managers make for 2025?
What is the job outlook for sustainability managers?
How to transition into sustainability from another field?
What emerging trends are shaping the future of sustainability management?
How do sustainability managers overcome internal resistance to sustainable transformation?
How can sustainability managers drive real business value?
How can affordable academic credentials advance your sustainability career?
How can sustainability managers effectively measure and communicate their impact?
How can sustainability managers stay ahead through continuous learning?
How can sustainability managers leverage technology to drive sustainable innovation?
Other Things You Should Know about Being a Sustainability Manager

What does a sustainability manager do?

A sustainability manager helps organizations reduce their environmental impact while still meeting business goals.

These professionals lead initiatives that align business operations with sustainability principles. This includes conserving energy, reducing waste, cutting emissions, and finding ways to operate more responsibly. Their work ensures a company not only follows environmental laws but also contributes to a healthier planet.

Key Responsibilities of a Sustainability Manager

Develop sustainability strategies: Create and manage long-term plans that promote sustainable practices across departments.
Monitor environmental impact: Evaluate how company operations affect the environment and identify areas for improvement.
Ensure regulatory compliance: Make sure the organization meets all environmental regulations and standards.
Promote innovation: Recommend new technologies and methods to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
Engage stakeholders: Collaborate with executives, employees, and communities to build support for green initiatives.

This role has become essential as more businesses prioritize sustainable development—a concept defined by the UN as meeting today’s needs without harming future generations. Companies now see sustainability as a long-term investment, not just a moral choice. That’s one reason many professionals exploring career growth also ask: is an online MBA worth it? For future sustainability managers, the answer may be yes—especially when it comes to leading strategic change in large organizations.

What education do you need to become a sustainability manager?

To become a sustainability manager, you typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, business, engineering, or a related field.

Most professionals start with an undergraduate degree that gives them a solid foundation in science or management. Popular majors include environmental science, biology, and sustainability studies. Business programs are also common, especially for those who want to focus on corporate sustainability strategies.

Steps to Build a Strong Educational Background

Earn a relevant bachelor’s degree: Fields like environmental science, business, and engineering are common choices.
Pursue hands-on experience: Internships, volunteer work, and entry-level roles help build practical skills and industry knowledge.
Explore certifications and short courses: Many universities and organizations offer online programs in sustainability management, environmental policy, and green business practices.

For professionals who want to advance into senior leadership, a graduate degree can open more doors. Some pursue MBAs with a focus on sustainability or environmental management. If you're looking to move quickly, the fastest MBA programs online can provide flexibility while helping you level up your career credentials.

What skills are needed to succeed in sustainability management?

To succeed in sustainability management, you need a mix of technical knowledge, analytical thinking, communication, and leadership skills.

As demand grows for eco-friendly solutions, job opportunities in sustainability management are rising steadily—projected to grow between 4% and 8% over the next decade. Employers are looking for professionals who can combine data-driven insights with a strong sense of purpose to guide organizations toward greener practices.

Core Skills for Sustainability Managers

Systems and operations analysis: Understand how complex systems work and where improvements can be made.
Personnel and project management: Lead teams, assign roles, and manage change effectively across departments.
Data and math skills: Use numbers to evaluate outcomes, make projections, and measure success.
Strategic decision-making: Balance environmental goals with financial outcomes and business priorities.
Strong communication: Share sustainability goals clearly with leadership, staff, and the public.

Skills Gained Through Education

Research skills for verifying sustainability claims and policies.
A sense of purpose to drive meaningful change.
Data collection and reporting skills to track progress and improve strategies.
Problem-solving abilities for creating innovative, practical solutions.
Leadership skills to motivate teams and manage transitions effectively.

These competencies are at the heart of corporate sustainability management—a holistic approach that integrates environmental, social, and economic factors into a company's core operations. By building the right skill set, aspiring professionals can help businesses create long-term value for stakeholders while addressing global sustainability challenges.

What certifications help in becoming a sustainability manager?

Certifications can strengthen your expertise, boost your credibility, and make you more competitive in the sustainability job market.

As sustainability becomes central to business success, employers increasingly look for professionals with formal credentials. A McKinsey report found that companies integrating sustainability into their strategy can generate up to 60% more value than competitors. Certifications help individuals lead these strategies with confidence, ensuring real-world impact and long-term growth.

Professionals coming from other disciplines—such as those exploring how to become a supply chain manager—often pursue sustainability certifications to expand their influence in environmentally focused operations.

Why get certified?

Prove your expertise: Certifications like the Certified Sustainability Manager Program (CSMP) are based on global standards, helping you demonstrate your knowledge to employers and peers.
Gain real-world skills: Programs go beyond theory. You’ll learn how to conduct impact audits, develop circular business models, and embed sustainability into business planning.
Stand out in the job market: With sustainability now a competitive advantage, employers want professionals trained in ethical, forward-thinking strategies. Degrees in organizational leadership and management can also complement certifications by building the strategic and people skills needed to lead green initiatives at the enterprise level.
Expand your network: Certification programs often include access to forums and coaching, helping you connect with peers and mentors in the field.

Popular Certifications for Sustainability Managers

Certified Energy Manager® (CEM®) – Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Focuses on improving energy efficiency in businesses.
Certified Renewable Energy Professional™ (REP™) – AEE Ideal for those managing renewable energy systems.
Certified Environmental and Safety Compliance Officer® (CESCO) – National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP) Great for entry-level professionals, even without a college degree.
Certified Climate Change Professional® (CC-P®) – Association of Climate Change Officers (ACCO) Prepares mid-to-senior level professionals to lead climate initiatives.
Certified Sustainability Manager Program (CSMP) – A comprehensive program that builds leadership skills, hands-on knowledge, and a strong professional network.

How long does it take to become a sustainability manager?

Becoming a sustainability manager usually takes between 3 to 5 years, depending on your education, experience, and career path.

A Step-by-Step Path

Most professionals start with a bachelor’s degree in a related field like environmental science, sustainability studies, or business. From there, many choose to pursue advanced degrees—such as a Master’s in Environmental Science or an MBA with a sustainability focus—to deepen their knowledge and stand out in the job market.

If you're looking for flexible academic options, consider programs like 1 year PhD programs online no dissertation, which offer accelerated learning paths while allowing professionals to keep working.

Gaining Experience

Before stepping into a management role, hands-on experience is key. This can come from:

Internships or entry-level roles in sustainability or related fields
Volunteering for environmental organizations or eco-initiatives
Roles in CSR, supply chain sustainability, or environmental compliance

This phase helps you build practical skills and form professional connections in the industry.

Career Progression Timeline

Years 0–1: Choose school subjects (science, math, environmental studies)
Years 1–4: Earn a bachelor’s degree
Years 4–6: Gain work experience in sustainability-related roles
Years 5–7+: Get promoted or apply for sustainability manager positions

Some professionals may speed up this timeline by pursuing certifications, building strong networks, or transitioning from related industries.

What are the top sustainability career paths for 2025?

The top sustainability career paths this year focus on roles that support the shift to a greener, low-carbon future. These careers help organizations cut emissions, conserve resources, and meet environmental standards.

As the push for net-zero goals accelerates, we’re seeing the rise of a "green collar" workforce—jobs that combine traditional skills with environmental expertise. In fact, green talent grew by 38.5% between 2015 and 2021, especially in renewable energy and sustainability management. This trend will only continue as more than 300 million new sustainability jobs are expected by 2050.

Here are some key roles to explore:

Bachelor’s-level careers

Environmental Manager – Leads efforts to manage pollution, waste, and compliance with regulations.
Sustainability Coordinator – Oversees projects to help organizations reduce their environmental impact.
Energy Auditor – Inspects homes or buildings to improve energy efficiency.

Master’s-level careers

Environmental Engineer – Designs systems to treat waste and reduce pollution.
Environmental Geologist – Identifies safe sites for landfills and disposal.
Ecologist – Studies how human activity affects ecosystems.

Ph.D.-level careers

Sustainability Director – Manages sustainability programs across an organization.
Chief Sustainability Officer – Leads company-wide environmental strategy.
Environmental Scientist – Analyzes data to solve environmental problems.

Graduate roles often come with added responsibility, which is why many consider advanced degrees. If you're wondering is an MBA hard, it depends on your goals—many MBA programs now include sustainability-focused tracks, making them a good fit for leadership in this space.

How much do sustainability managers make for 2025?

Sustainability managers this year earn an average salary of around $130,720 per year in the United States.

However, actual pay can vary widely depending on your experience, the industry you work in, and where you're based. Recent data from sources like Zippia, Salary.com, Glassdoor, Comparably, and PayScale show that most sustainability managers earn between $67,890 and $132,177 annually.

These professionals play a key role in helping companies meet environmental goals, reduce waste, and build sustainable business practices. Because of the growing demand for eco-friendly strategies, this role is becoming more valuable across many sectors.

If you're aiming for this position, having an advanced degree or certification can help you qualify for higher-paying roles. For those cost-conscious about grad school, there are programs offering an MBA under 10k that can build both business and sustainability skills without breaking the ban

What is the job outlook for sustainability managers?

The job outlook for sustainability managers in 2025 is strong and steadily growing.

As more companies focus on environmental responsibility and long-term climate goals, the demand for sustainability professionals continues to rise. A key driver of this growth is the global push for decarbonization—the shift toward reducing carbon emissions across all sectors. This movement is creating new opportunities in industries like energy, construction, transportation, and corporate governance.

Recent studies show that the proportion of “green talent” in the workforce grew by over 38% between 2015 and 2021. With coordinated climate policies and investment, the global economy could see over 300 million new green jobs by 2050. Sustainability managers will play a major role in this transformation, helping organizations align with evolving regulations and sustainability standards.

It’s a future-focused career path with strong long-term potential—especially for professionals who can combine environmental knowledge with leadership and strategic planning skills.

How to transition into sustainability from another field

You can switch to a sustainability career no matter your current background—as long as you're passionate about making a positive environmental impact. For instance, professionals coming from fields where DBA salary expectations are high may find sustainability roles a rewarding alternative that still offers competitive compensation and leadership opportunities.

The first step is to build a solid understanding of sustainability principles. This means learning about the three key pillars: environmental, social, and economic sustainability. You can do this by taking short courses, online classes, or workshops focused on sustainability fundamentals.

Understanding how sustainability intersects with social factors is important, especially since sociology jobs salary data shows that roles emphasizing social sustainability are increasingly valued and well-compensated.

Gain relevant credentials

Once you’ve covered the basics, consider getting certified in your area of interest. For example:

If you have a business background, you might pursue green business or ESG certifications.
If you're in engineering or construction, look into LEED or energy efficiency credentials.
If you're in policy, environmental law or climate risk training might help.

Apply your past experience

Don’t underestimate the value of your existing skills. Project management, communication, data analysis, and leadership are all transferable to sustainability roles.

You might also explore entry-level roles, internships, or volunteer work in sustainability-related organizations. These stepping stones can help you build experience and prove your commitment to the field.

What emerging trends are shaping the future of sustainability management?

Recent shifts in technology, policy reforms, and global market dynamics are redefining the landscape of sustainability management. Industry leaders are now prioritizing integrated approaches that leverage digital analytics, circular economy principles, and innovative renewable energy solutions to meet both environmental and business objectives. Academic programs are also evolving to support these changes—pursuing an online degree in environmental studies can equip professionals with the latest knowledge in sustainable practices. Staying updated on regulatory changes and emerging green technologies is essential for managers aiming to build adaptable strategies in a rapidly transforming global market.

How do sustainability managers overcome internal resistance to sustainable transformation?

Sustainability managers often face internal challenges when introducing initiatives that redefine operational priorities. Overcoming resistance requires leveraging change management strategies such as fostering transparent communication, actively engaging key internal stakeholders, and building a cross-functional alliance to advocate sustainable practices. Strategic leaders can integrate targeted employee training and incentive programs to facilitate a cultural shift and build shared commitment to long-term environmental goals. Employing data-driven evidence to illustrate the benefits of sustainable initiatives also serves to mitigate skepticism and align teams around measurable outcomes. For professionals looking to deepen their understanding of integrated planning strategies, exploring urban planning online masters can provide valuable insights into harmonizing technical planning with sustainability leadership.

How can sustainability managers drive real business value?

Sustainability managers help companies grow by aligning business goals with environmental and social responsibility. Their work doesn’t just improve brand image—it also opens new doors for funding, investor trust, and long-term success.

Here’s how they drive real value:

They attract investment.

Sustainability is now central to financial decisions. As of 2025, sustainability-focused assets are expected to reach $50 trillion—over a third of the world’s total assets under management. With 85% of asset managers treating sustainable investing as a top priority, companies with clear sustainability strategies are better positioned to secure funding.

They boost financial performance.

A strong sustainability plan often leads to better financial results. In fact, 63% of over 2,000 studies found that sustainability has a positive effect on equity returns. Financial markets are also rewarding sustainability efforts through tools like green bonds and sustainability-linked loans.

They reduce risk and future-proof the business.

As regulations tighten, companies must stay ahead to remain competitive. Sustainability managers ensure compliance, prepare companies for shifts in policy, and avoid reputational or legal issues.

How can affordable academic credentials advance your sustainability career?

Cost-effective educational pathways offer a strategic advantage for professionals aiming to build both technical expertise and leadership skills without prohibitive expenses. Pursuing a cheap environmental engineering online degree can equip candidates with essential environmental and analytical skills that directly support the implementation of sustainable practices. Integrating these competencies with hands-on experience facilitates more agile responses to evolving industry standards and enhances the ability to drive innovation in sustainability management.

Here’s What People Have to Say about Being a Sustainability Manager

Working in sustainability has allowed me to align my career with my values. Every project I lead helps reduce waste, improve efficiency, and contribute to real change in how businesses think about the planet. — Ayesha

Becoming a sustainability manager gave me the chance to bridge science and strategy. It’s rewarding to see how the right policies not only reduce emissions but also save millions in operational costs. — Luca

What I love most about my role is the collaboration. I get to work with diverse teams across departments to embed sustainable thinking into everything we do—it feels like meaningful progress every single day. — Camila

How can sustainability managers effectively measure and communicate their impact?

Sustainability managers must establish clear, data-driven metrics to quantify the success of environmental initiatives. Leveraging industry-standard KPIs—such as reduction in energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improved waste management—enables precise tracking of progress. Effective measurement also involves integrating qualitative feedback from stakeholders to create comprehensive sustainability reports that inform strategic decision-making and build organizational trust. Utilizing advanced data visualization tools further ensures that complex information is communicated clearly across all levels of the business. For those starting out, exploring opportunities like jobs for sustainability majors can provide additional insight into aligning measurement strategies with career growth.

How can sustainability managers stay ahead through continuous learning?

Sustainability managers must prioritize continuous learning to navigate evolving industry standards and technological advancements. Leveraging specialized courses, certifications, and industry conferences can enrich technical and strategic skills while keeping professionals updated on regulatory changes. Integrating cross-disciplinary knowledge—from emerging green technologies to innovative financial instruments—ensures long-term competitive advantage. Moreover, accessing research-based resources, such as insights on how long does it take to be an environmental scientist, can help bridge the gap between academic understanding and practical application. This proactive approach to professional development not only drives informed decision-making but also reinforces sustainable practices across an organization.

How can sustainability managers leverage technology to drive sustainable innovation?

Sustainability managers can integrate advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and promote sustainable practices. By harnessing tools like IoT sensors for real-time resource monitoring, predictive analytics for optimizing energy consumption, and digital platforms for environmental reporting, these professionals can turn data insights into actionable strategies. Furthermore, adopting emerging technologies facilitates transparent performance tracking and supports proactive decision-making, ultimately reinforcing the organization’s commitment to sustainability. For those seeking to strengthen their technical foundation, consider exploring environmental science degrees online accredited programs.

Key Findings

Sustainability managers earn an average salary of $130,720 per year in the United States as of 2025.
67% of sustainability managers hold a bachelor’s degree, while 24% have a graduate degree.
Green talent in the workforce grew by 38.5% between 2015 and 2021.
Over 300 million new sustainability-related jobs are expected to be created globally by 2050.
71% of global business leaders believe sustainability will influence all future investment decisions.

Other Things You Should Know about Being a Sustainability Manager

Do sustainability managers travel a lot for work?

The amount of travel required for sustainability managers varies by organization and role. Some positions may involve frequent site visits, audits, and meetings with stakeholders, leading to regular travel. Conversely, other roles might be more office-based, focusing on policy development and internal coordination, resulting in minimal travel. Ultimately, travel requirements depend on the specific duties and the company's operational scope.

What industries hire the most sustainability managers?

Sustainability managers are employed across various industries, with significant demand in manufacturing, technology, retail, energy, and finance sectors. These industries are increasingly prioritizing sustainable practices to comply with regulations and meet consumer expectations, thereby creating opportunities for sustainability professionals.

Is a background in science or engineering required to work in sustainability management?

While a background in science or engineering can be beneficial for understanding technical aspects of sustainability, it is not strictly required. Sustainability management often involves policy development, project coordination, and stakeholder engagement, which can be effectively handled by individuals with diverse educational backgrounds, including business, environmental studies, or social sciences. Practical experience and relevant certifications can also significantly enhance one's qualifications in this field.

Can I become a sustainability manager without a degree in sustainability?

Yes, it is possible to become a sustainability manager without a specific degree in sustainability. Employers often value practical experience, relevant skills, and a strong commitment to sustainable practices. Pursuing certifications, attending workshops, and gaining experience through related roles can help build the necessary competencies for a career in sustainability management.