We might be in the midst of a recession, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t jobs out there to be found. Recent college graduates have the most unfortunate timing in recent years to enter the job market, but some are finding employment opportunities in the green market. We are living in an age where younger people are becoming more and more conscious of reducing their carbon footprint and doing what they can to live a greener lifestyle.

Alissa Wilson, co-author of Practical Idealists: Changing the World and Getting Paid, says that graduates considering applying to jobs in the green field must first do their research. Eco-friendly jobs are no longer limited to working in recycling factories or alternative energy manufacturers. In fact, the industry is expanding, with an estimated $60 billion to be spent on cost-efficient and eco-friendly buildings by 2010. It takes professionals from all fields to come together in the development of green buildings, including drafters, engineers, construction managers, welders, plumbers, and electricians.

Jobs within the environmentally conscious building industry can be found at The Green Building Council’s website. Here, graduates can find information and resources relating to the field. This is where graduates can read-up about the industry so they have a better idea of what is involved in green building, before they start sending out their resumes.

Of course, the building sector is not the only industry where green job opportunities are growing. Eco-friendly jobs are available in other fields, too. Some may require students to have studied within a specific field, while others require general know how.

Wilson’s ultimate recommendation for recent graduates is to be prepared to take on any opportunity that may arise. “I hope that new graduates will be flexible in terms of starting out in non-sexy entry-level positions, fellowships or apprenticeships.”