How to Start a Career in Environmental Science or Public Health – Even Without Experience
Pest Control, Crop Science, Turf & Ornamental, and Hygiene aren’t always top of mind when people think about their next career move - but they should be.
These sectors are essential to global health, safety, and sustainability, and they offer meaningful, varied, and future-focused work. Whether you’re a student, a career changer, or even a military veteran transitioning to civilian life, there are clear ways to get started and grow - here’s how.
Why these sectors matter
These industries often operate behind the scenes, but without them, cities, farms, food supply chains, and public spaces to name just a few, would quickly fall apart.
Pest Control protects homes, hospitals, and businesses from infestation and disease. Turf professionals shape the green spaces that support sport, tourism, and biodiversity. Crop Science drives food security through innovation and smarter agriculture. Hygiene underpins public safety in every high-risk environment, from operating rooms to school cafeterias and far beyond.
In short, these are industries that matter. They continue to grow year on year, all around the world and they need new talent.
There’s a place for you, even without industry experience
These sectors are filled with individuals who have successfully transitioned from diverse backgrounds. From hospitality professionals to landscapers, graduates from various disciplines, and field workers, many have embraced new roles within these sectors. Their journeys highlight the accessibility and versatility of these industries.
What matters isn’t where you start. It’s your mindset. Employers look for people who are dependable, practical, willing to learn, and take pride in doing the job right. If that sounds like you, you’re already well on your way.
Many companies offer structured training or provide the support to build knowledge and achieve the relevant qualifications. Trade associations can also be a good avenue to explore for great up-to-date industry information, as well as offering access to accredited courses and certifications.
These jobs are accessible, and you’re not expected to know it all on day one.
These roles aren’t “entry-level”, they’re essential
There’s a common misconception that field or technician roles are a starting point before moving on, but that’s not how the industry sees them.
Technicians are the backbone of industry, across sectors. They work independently, solve real problems daily, and usually have more face-to-face contact with clients than anyone else in the business. In fact, many senior managers and directors began in technician roles and worked their way up.
They’re respected, valuable, and critical to the success of the industry. These are skilled roles, not stepping stones.
That said, not everyone enters the industry through fieldwork. Many start in sales, marketing, HR, customer service, logistics, manufacturing, or finance, then discover a desire to work more hands-on or directly solve problems. There are many ways in and many paths forward.
There’s room to grow and move across sectors
Once you’re in, your options can open up. Career paths can move in different directions, whether technical, operational, commercial, or strategic.
A pest control or hygiene technician might progress into specialist roles like field biologist, environmental auditor, or technical trainer. Others choose a broader operational path, moving into team leadership, service management, or regional operations. Some professionals diversify into commercial roles, starting in sales or business development, then advancing to national/key accounts and sales management.
In turf care, you could begin by maintaining local authority parks, school grounds, or amateur sports fields. With experience and further training, this can lead to senior grounds roles at elite venues, such as Premier League clubs, golf resorts, or international stadiums. Some professionals go on to specialise in turf consultancy, machinery operations, or turf innovation, working with turf seed or surface technology companies.
In crop science, you might start in a field support role, working with growers or assisting agronomists during crop trials. From there, you could move into technical advisory positions, research and development, product formulation, or agronomy certification. Others take a commercial route, managing territories for suppliers, biotech firms, or agri-tech platforms. Many go on to regional or global roles with large multinationals.
There’s also plenty of crossover between sectors. It’s common for professionals to move between hygiene and pest control, especially within companies that operate across both. Many manufacturers, service providers, and distributors work in multiple areas, making skills highly transferable. Employers often value this broader experience and industry knowledge.
Veterans find a strong fit in these sectors
Across the UK, US, and globally, veterans are increasingly being welcomed into our industry.
In the UK, the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) signed the Armed Forces Covenant earlier in 2025, committing to support service leavers and reservists entering the industry. Companies like Cleankill followed suit, with close to 10% of their workforce now veterans. Their leadership highlights how military traits like reliability, adaptability, and a calm mindset in high-pressure situations are an asset in field operations.
In the US, long-running programs via the NPMA, such as PestVets and DoD SkillBridge, help connect veterans to pest control roles. Companies such as All-American Pest and Thrasher actively support these transitions, offering on-the-job training and veteran-specific career pathways.
So why do veterans thrive here?
- The skills translate. Situational awareness, discipline, problem-solving, and teamwork are built into both military and environmental roles.
- The mission matters. Whether it’s protecting food supply chains, maintaining safe environments, or preventing disease outbreaks, there’s purpose and pride in the work.
- The work is structured. Clear goals, standard operating procedures, and field-based autonomy offer a familiar rhythm for those leaving service life.
As more companies publicly commit to veteran recruitment, more opportunities are opening up. The industry isn’t offering just a job, it’s offering a career that values what veterans bring.
It’s an innovative, tech-driven, fast-moving industry
Think this industry is boring and old-school? Think again. Smart technologies and innovative solutions are transforming how work gets done.
In crop science, companies are using drones, AI, and big data to manage crop health and yield forecasting. Solar-powered robots roam fields detecting weeds and pests using AI. New bio-stimulants made from seaweed and beneficial microbes are being used to boost plant health and resilience, reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals.
Pest control is also evolving fast and in some fascinating ways. From real-time reporting platforms and smart monitoring traps/sensors, to the rise of biological and non-toxic solutions that protect health without harming the environment. Hawks, falcons and lasers are used to deter nuisance birds at airports and stadiums. K9 detection dogs sniff out termites with precision. ‘COVID-style’ antigen swab tests are now being used for early detection of bed bug infestations.
Turf managers at major sports venues use hybrid grasses, moisture sensors, and precision mowing systems. In broader green-space roles, new rail-mounted weed systems use AI and camera tech to detect and treat weeds only where needed. This reduces herbicide use and keeps railway tracks clear, essential for visibility, drainage, and safety.
Hygiene professionals in healthcare are adopting surface contamination sensors and digital compliance logging tools. Electrostatic sprayers are now being used, allowing disinfectants to wrap around surfaces more completely, improving safety and reducing waste.
This is just the tip of the innovation iceberg and there’s nothing outdated about these sectors. Innovation is constant and the industry needs people ready to learn, adapt, and grow with it.
You’re not alone, there’s a global network of support
Across sectors, there are hundreds of professional associations worldwide helping people start and grow their careers.
Whether you're just exploring the industry or already working in it, these organisations offer:
- Industry-recognised training and qualifications
- Advice on mentorship, apprenticeships, and early-career programmes
- Networking events and trade shows that connect you with employers and peers
- Insight into legislation, innovation, and best practice
- Resources tailored to local markets and global trends
There are many trade events, from smaller regional meetings to large international expos, and these can be a great way to learn more about the industry. It’s worth exploring what’s happening near you and seeing how to register.
Making the effort to attend, even just once, can help you understand the sector, meet potential employers, and build confidence in taking the next step.
These organisations aren’t just for experts, they’re for anyone serious about building a meaningful career in the industry. They have a genuine passion for supporting new talent and encouraging fresh interest in the sector. Whether you're just starting out or exploring a career change, they can be a valuable resource.
You’ll find many of the key associations and trade events listed on the EnviroHub page, so you can explore what's available in your region and sector.
Specialist talent platforms and recruitment agencies focused on these industries can also make a big difference. They’re a simple way to see jobs already being advertised, but they also bring something extra – insider knowledge, career advice, and established networks with employers. They understand the skills employers value and can help match you with companies and roles that align with your strengths and ambitions.
Why now is the right time
These sectors are growing globally. They face talent shortages, an ageing workforce, and a rising need for skilled professionals. That means more opportunity, faster career progression, and job security.
You’ll find work with real-world impact. You’ll build skills that stay relevant. You’ll join a sector that genuinely values the people doing the work. And the work is tangible – you see the impact of what you do every day.
Ready to take the first step?
EnviroCareer helps people build rewarding careers across Public Health and Environmental Science. Whether you're exploring your first role or planning your next move, we’ll help you find the right opportunity.
Visit www.envirocareer.com to explore current job posts, learn more about the sectors, and take your first step.