The type of qualifications required to workThe ESG trackbasically depends on which ESG area you want to work in. Certain areas obviously require specialist knowledge and/or diplomas and experience. To break it down into some of the key areas, this is a basic guide to some of the expectations employers will have of those starting outcareer within ESG.
Technology-based roles
One of these specialist areas, ESG jobs such as Project Engineer or Graduate Engineer in ESG and Sustainability, typically expects a tertiary qualification in engineering, environmental management, sustainability or something related. Some organizations may also want you to have some experience with mining and resources industry projects and experience reporting on sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions.
Hiring managers are also likely to be looking for candidates who have experience with risk and compliance management and possibly ESG software, and who have experience using Excel and PowerBI for data modeling and dashboarding.
Banking and financial functions
Working in ESG and sustainability roles within the financial sector really requires that you have relevant sector experience and a degree or equivalent qualification to back this up. Qualifications in finance, accounting, economics, commerce or banking are most common in this field.
Analysts roll
Candidates must have completed training from ESG analyst onwards in subjects such as sustainability, environmental science or real estate. These roles require people who are skilled in project management and who feel comfortable talking to people across the company. Strong communication skills are something that is common to all ESG jobs across the board. ESG analysts must also demonstrate strong research and analytical skills, good attention to detail and an understanding of sustainability indices and reporting protocols. Knowledge of Excel and other data management software is also helpful.
Senior analyst positions
In addition to the more experienced ESG analyst jobs, candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of hands-on experience in ESG, whether they have worked for the big four, a specialist ESG firm or another large corporate organization. In these capacities, an individual will have been exposed to ESG strategy, frameworks and policies, and had the opportunity to hone these project management and people skills. Senior ESG analysts must be able to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, as well as with senior members of the board and board of directors.
Advisory roles
ESG consulting jobs can fall into a variety of disciplines, from business management to mining and manufacturing. Experience and knowledge in the sector is therefore something that hiring managers will be looking for. One of the expectations of individuals working in these roles is that they have a thorough understanding of the specific ESG challenges facing the organization and the dynamics of the ESG and sustainability teams and the business. Employers will certainly expect a solid track record in ESG and sustainability advice, alongside strong commercial acumen, business development and project management skills. Stakeholder management is another key skill requirement, in addition to proven risk awareness and excellent communication. In terms of education, most employers will be looking for a university-level qualification in environmental and social management, sustainability, finance, law, economics or a related discipline.
Research-based roles
ESG Research Manager jobs are best suited to those who have five or more years of hands-on industry experience. Mathematics-based courses such as business and finance will provide a good foundation, as work in ESG Research requires good skills in detailed assessment and analysis of large amounts of data. Law, social sciences and business are other popular fields of study that can lead to a career in ESG research, with some organizations and positions also requiring postgraduate certifications including Masters in Finance or Economics, MBA or CFA.
The key qualifications covering a range of ESG and sustainability jobs are Masters in Environmental Management, MBA in Sustainability and Masters in Sustainability. There are also a number of niche courses, such as a certificate in ESG Investing, or similar certification courses in Climate Change and Decarbonization. Look at the programs offered at your local universities to see where the best course offerings are for you.
