Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) is a corporate executive responsible for integrating and managing environmental and social issues into a company's strategy and operations. They lead sustainability efforts, ensuring the organization's long-term environmental and societal impacts align with its business goals.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: 5 years or more
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: -8.2% (negative growth)
Annual job openings: 22,200
Direct AI exposure: 6% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 72% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $214K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $76K per year | $130K per year | $214K per year | $356K per year | $508K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $163K above the national average. | ||||
CSOs typically work in an office setting within a corporate environment. They frequently collaborate with other executives, departments, external stakeholders, and may travel to different company sites or for stakeholder meetings.
A Chief Sustainability Officer plays a crucial role in shaping a company's environmental and social footprint. They are responsible for developing strategies that balance profitability with sustainable practices, ensuring the company's activities positively impact the planet and society. This involves staying abreast of environmental regulations, identifying opportunities for sustainable growth, and mitigating risks related to sustainability.
The role extends beyond environmental concerns, encompassing social and governance aspects as well. CSOs work towards building a responsible corporate culture, engaging with communities, and promoting ethical business practices. They also play a key role in communication, both internally to foster a culture of sustainability, and externally to enhance the company's reputation and stakeholder relations.
The position demands strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to drive change within the organization. A CSO must be adept at navigating complex regulatory landscapes, understanding market trends, and engaging diverse stakeholder groups. Their work is integral to building a sustainable future for the business and its broader community.
A minimum of a bachelor's degree is usually required, often in environmental science, business, or related fields. Many CSOs also hold a master's degree or higher.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
