Introduction
My name is Swapnil Mishra, and I am from India. I am a dedicated Environmental Science and Policy professional with a strong academic foundation and diverse interdisciplinary expertise. My interests span Economics, Urban Planning, Geography, Political Science, and International Relations, all of which shape my approach to sustainable development and energy policy.
I earned my undergraduate degree in Economics and Environmental Studies from Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, in 2017. Following this, I worked as an Associate for Tribune Publishing in Chicago in 2018, where I developed a deep understanding of effective communication and public engagement. To further integrate science with policy, I pursued a master's degree in Environmental Science and Policy at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, completing my degree in 2021. I then gained hands-on technical experience as an Analytical Chemist at Alpha Analytical and later as a Health Physicist for CN Associates at UMass Chan Medical School and DDES LLC at Vertex Pharmaceuticals.
Throughout my career, I have explored the intersection of Environmental Science and Public Policy, recognizing the critical role that evidence-based decision-making plays in driving sustainable solutions.
Currently, I serve as a Solar Energy Specialist at Sunbender LLC, where I leverage my expertise to educate individuals and communities on the environmental and financial benefits of solar energy. My work focuses on advancing the adoption of renewable energy technologies, fostering sustainability, and promoting cost-effective clean energy solutions across the United States.
Environmental Science Fellow
career options
The field of environmental science and policy offers a diverse range of career paths for individuals passionate about sustainability, conservation, and public policy. Whether working to influence regulations, conduct scientific research, or implement sustainability initiatives, professionals in this sector can make a significant impact. Below are some career paths within the industry, along with examples of potential roles in each:
Environmental Science Fellow
skills
What are the main hard skills you use on a daily basis in your current job?
I have experience conducting environmental assessments and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. I developed this skill through hands-on work in health physics and analytical chemistry, where I performed radiological surveys, measured contamination levels, and maintained safety protocols in laboratory and industrial settings.
I have expertise in collecting and analyzing environmental and chemical samples using standardized methods. My experience in analytical chemistry and health physics allowed me to perform wet chemistry analyses, wipe testing, and airborne sampling to detect contaminants in various environments.
Managing and interpreting data is a crucial aspect of environmental science and laboratory work. I have experience reviewing Quality Control (QC) data, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to validate and track sample results.
What are the main soft skills you use on a daily basis in your current job?
Precision is crucial in environmental science and laboratory work. I've developed this skill through roles that require accurate measurements, data analysis, and strict regulatory compliance. Whether inspecting radioactive waste storage areas or ensuring proper labeling, I apply this skill daily to maintain high safety and quality standards.
Working in environmental science often involves identifying risks, troubleshooting issues, and implementing effective solutions. I've honed this skill by assessing contamination risks, conducting radiological surveys, and analyzing environmental data to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Effective communication is essential when working with diverse teams in scientific and regulatory environments. I've strengthened this skill by coordinating with colleagues, writing reports, and explaining technical information to ensure clear understanding and adherence to safety protocols.
Swapnil
’s personal path
Tell us about your personal journey in
Environmental Science Fellow
:
The journey to landing a fulfilling job in environmental science and policy is rarely a straight line. It requires persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to explore different career paths. When I began my job search, I focused on identifying potential employers that aligned with my qualifications and interests. I created a list of organizations across various sectors—civil society, governmental agencies, non-profits, and the private sector—to better understand where I might fit best. Recognizing that environmental science roles typically require in-person work while environmental policy jobs can often be hybrid or remote, I factored this into my decision-making process.
Once I had a targeted list of employers, I researched job openings that matched my expertise, focusing on roles related to environmental monitoring, laboratory analysis, and safety compliance. This step was crucial because environmental science and policy is an interdisciplinary field with diverse career paths requiring different skill sets. While I leaned more toward the scientific side of the field, I remained open to roles that integrated policy, understanding that science plays a critical role in shaping environmental regulations and decision-making.
Beyond just submitting applications, I actively engaged in the process. I reached out to hiring managers via email and LinkedIn, introduced myself, expressed my interest in the role, and inquired about the hiring process. I also took the opportunity to ask about the company culture and what a typical workday looked like. These interactions not only helped me gain deeper insights into the positions I was applying for but also allowed me to build connections with professionals in the field.
Through this process, I learned that securing a job is more than just sending applications—it's about being proactive, networking, and staying flexible. The field of environmental science and policy offers numerous career trajectories, and paths often evolve in unexpected ways. Being open to new opportunities, even if they don't initially align with a "dream job," can lead to rewarding and impactful experiences.
What would you tell your younger you regarding building your current career?
If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I would tell him to be patient with the process. It’s easy to feel frustrated when things don’t fall into place immediately, but every experience—whether it feels like a step forward or sideways—adds value and shapes your understanding of the field.
Environmental science and policy is an interdisciplinary field, offering a variety of career paths that require different skill sets. One of the biggest challenges is finding the right balance between being a generalist and a specialist. Early on, it’s important to build a broad foundation—gaining experience in different areas, developing transferable skills, and understanding the bigger picture of environmental issues. Over time, however, finding a niche or specialization can help you stand out and make a more targeted impact. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Instead of stressing about finding the “perfect” job, focus on gaining experiences that expand your knowledge and skills. Whether you’re working in a lab, analyzing policies, or engaging with communities, every opportunity helps you grow into a well-rounded professional.
Your career will evolve in ways you can’t predict. What may seem like a detour could end up being the foundation for something even better. Be open to new opportunities, even if they don’t align exactly with what you initially envisioned. The most rewarding experiences often come from unexpected places, and the skills you gain along the way will prepare you for challenges you haven’t even encountered yet.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to reach out to people, ask questions, and build relationships. Networking isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about learning from others, discovering new possibilities, and finding mentors who can guide you. The field of environmental science and policy needs passionate, dedicated people who are willing to adapt, innovate, and push for change. Stay curious, stay resilient, and trust that the right path will unfold as you go.
Final thoughts & tips
Environmental science and policy offer a wide range of career paths, each contributing to both scientific research and the development of policies that drive sustainability. Whether working in civil society, governmental agencies, non-profits, or the private sector, professionals in this field help shape the future of the natural environment. From scientific research roles to policy advocacy positions, each sector plays a vital role in addressing environmental challenges.
Balancing technical hard skills with soft skills is key. In my career, skills like environmental monitoring, laboratory analysis, and data management have been essential, but so have soft skills such as attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication. Mastering both will help you thrive in various roles.
Looking back, I would tell my younger self to be patient and open to exploring different career paths. The journey is rarely linear, and each detour adds valuable experience. Reaching out proactively to hiring managers and networking has helped me gain insight and build connections in the field.
Lastly, finding the balance between being a generalist and a specialist is crucial. Early on, focus on gaining broad experience, then specialize as you identify your niche. Stay flexible, keep learning, and embrace unexpected opportunities. The field offers many rewarding paths where you can make a meaningful impact in both science and policy.
Resources to dig in more
Environmental Defense Fund (Civil Society)
The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is an environmental advocacy organization focused on policy, scientific research, and community-driven initiatives. Their careers page offers insights into civil society-focused roles such as policy advocacy, organizing, and environmental campaigns, making it ideal for those interested in environmental sustainability and systemic change.
USAJobs (Governmental Agencies)
USAJobs is the primary job portal for federal employment in the U.S., including positions in environmental science and policy within governmental agencies. It features opportunities for environmental policy analysis, risk assessments, and enforcement of environmental regulations across federal, state, and local government agencies.
Idealist (Non-Profit Organizations)
Idealist is a go-to job portal for finding nonprofit and volunteer opportunities. It features positions focused on environmental conservation, climate action, and sustainability. It’s an excellent resource for students looking to work in non-profit organizations dedicated to protecting natural resources and promoting ecological sustainability.
Trellis (Private Sector)
Trellis offers a job board focusing on careers in corporate sustainability, environmental impact assessments, and green business practices within the private sector. It's an ideal resource for students interested in working with businesses to implement sustainability programs and reduce their ecological footprints.
