Due to a combination of the environmentally-conscious consumer and a new way of thinking and doing business, many green jobs and opportunities that were not here before have opened up. Today, more colleges and universities are incorporating "green" degrees or programs with an environmental view. In addition, people are looking for renewable and natural resources that we can depend on for energy, to run our cars and power the electricity and fuel for our homes.

There are several green industries that continue to grow, according to the United States' Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the expansion of green technologies and green industries--partly because of government funding for these projects and issues--comes the opportunity for job growth all around the country.

Environmental Engineer

Engineering jobs in traditional fields has declined due to economic contractions in automobile spending as well as infrastructure. Though these interests have declined, green technology has paved the way for an increase in environmental engineering jobs. Engineers specializing in clean technologies like wind and solar may see job growth near 25% to 30% in the coming years. These types of jobs include titles like the environmental engineer, environmental technician and civil engineer. Someone in this field has the potential to earn anywhere from $54,000 annually to $94,000 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling installers are in the right field to cash in on green profits. Green jobs in this field involve finding and installing the best, money-saving, environmentally-friendly products for consumers and homeowners. Products include solar water heaters, solar panels and any other energy-efficient appliance that could save money over the long run. A 28% increase in growth is expected in this field over the next decade.

Energy Efficient Builders

One of the areas in which green jobs are expected to rise is that of energy-efficient builders. Not only do buildings in the U.S. account for nearly 50% energy use in the country, but also many of these buildings are considered older, out-of-date and needing of energy retrofits. Retrofitting involves issues like improving the thermal resistance of drafty homes through the installation of storm windows and foam insulation. In addition, new buildings must be designed with environmentally friendly technology already installed. Builders and contractors with this expertise are expected to flourish in the coming decade.

Conservation Biologist

One of the best green jobs that involve directly with taking care of the environment is that of the conservation biologist. A conservation biologist is concerned with preserving ecosystems and finding ways to decrease environmental degradation. Subfields and careers within conservation biology include the botanist, forester, ecologist and hydrobiologist. With these types of jobs, you may be working as a researcher in a government agency or private organization, follow a path in academia or find a position with another conservation-related organization.

Other green jobs you'll see more of in the coming years include sustainability developers, urban planners, recycling technicians, organic farmers and wind turbine fabricators. Opportunities in these fields provide jobs not only for the business-minded, but also for the worker. In fact, approximately 770,000 jobs in 2007 occurred in the clean energy industry. With increasing interest in green technology and environmental issues, more jobs are sure to come.