Green careers on the rise

Amid all the talk of industry downsizings, layoffs and double-digit unemployment, certain industries and professions are on the rise. Most notable is the green economy: the businesses, industries and positions involved in producing greener products, using cleaner processes, improving product sustainability, and minimizing each company's negative impact on the environment.

So, where are the green jobs?

-Caring for the earth (atmospheric and environmental science, ecology, geoscience, biology, hydrology)-Managing natural resources (air, fish and wildlife, forests, land, waste, water)-Developing alternative energy (geothermal, solar, tidal and marine, wind, nuclear, waste)-Rebuilding infrastructure (green building, manufacturing, smart grid, supply and distribution, transportation)-Shaping a "green economy" (law, politics, policy, regulation and compliance, regulatory enforcement)-Providing green products and services (ecotourism, event planning, natural personal care and cleaning)Opportunities are multiplying - for scientists, engineers, conservationists, environmental technicians, foresters, researchers, lab technicians, skilled workers and tradesmen, technologists, regulators, policy enactors, press and PR specialists, business managers, designers, land planners, attorneys, risk-management analysts, investment analysts and scores of other professions.

Can you find your dream green career?

Wendy Enelow is co-author of "Expert Résumés for Military-to-Civilian Transitions" and "Executive Résumé Toolkit." http://www.wendyenelow.com