Carbon Accounting Specialist
SOC 13-1199.04 · ESCO 2133 · OSCA 234131
Role snapshot
Overview
Measures and tracks an organisation's greenhouse gas emissions across all scopes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with reporting frameworks. Collects data from operations, calculates footprints, and identifies reduction opportunities. This role is crucial for corporate sustainability efforts, regulatory compliance, and driving decarbonisation strategies.
Enables organisations to accurately understand their environmental footprint, meet regulatory requirements, and develop credible strategies for emissions reduction, contributing directly to global climate goals.
On the job
- Collect and validate emissions data from various operational sources (energy consumption, supply chain, waste, transportation).
- Apply established methodologies (e.g., GHG Protocol) to calculate Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
- Prepare comprehensive carbon footprint reports for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring compliance with standards like TCFD, CSRD, or CDP.
- Identify and recommend opportunities for emissions reduction and efficiency improvements across the organisation.
- Stay updated on evolving climate regulations, reporting standards, and carbon accounting best practices.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, sustainability, or a related field. Relevant certifications in carbon accounting or GHG reporting are highly valued.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Carbon Accounting Specialist
Chemical & Process Engineering
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
enterprising · ECI
People who are enterprising in driving sustainability initiatives, meticulous in data analysis and reporting, and investigative in understanding complex environmental regulations and methodologies, will find this role engaging.
Personality characteristics
Detail-oriented
Highly precise and systematic in collecting, analyzing, and reporting complex emissions data to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Analytical
Enjoys investigating complex data sets, identifying trends, and applying scientific methodologies to calculate carbon footprints.
Conscientious
Dedicated to adhering to strict reporting standards and ensuring the integrity of environmental data.
Calm under pressure
Maintains composure when facing reporting deadlines or scrutinized data, ensuring accuracy without succumbing to stress.
Collaborative
Works effectively with various internal departments to gather necessary data and communicate findings.
Best for
- Individuals passionate about environmental sustainability and climate action, with a strong aptitude for data and compliance.
- Professionals who thrive on systematic analysis, problem-solving, and ensuring accuracy in complex reporting frameworks.
- Those who enjoy translating technical data into actionable insights for corporate decision-making.
Watch out for
- May involve navigating ambiguous or incomplete data from various sources.
- Requires continuous learning and adaptation to evolving regulations and reporting standards.
- Less emphasis on direct people management or highly creative tasks.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Carbon Accounting Specialist — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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