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How much does a Environmental Protection Specialist make?

The average salary for a Environmental Protection Specialist is $70,235 per year in the US.

Environmental Protection Specialists work hard to protect our environment and public health. They examine industrial sites and ensure companies follow the rules. Their efforts can make a big difference. The average yearly salary for this job is $70,235. This means they earn about $33.77 per hour.

Specialists in this field can earn different salaries based on their experience and location. Those just starting out may earn around $37,934. More experienced professionals can earn up to $154,439. Here is a closer look at the salary distribution:

  • 10% earn less than $37,934
  • 25% earn less than $48,525
  • 50% earn less than $69,708
  • 75% earn less than $101,482
  • 90% earn less than $133,256
  • 95% earn less than $143,848

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What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Protection Specialist?

Environmental Protection Specialists can find high-paying jobs in several cities. Washington, DC, leads with an average salary of $112,494, offering excellent opportunities. Seattle, WA, and Springfield, IL, follow closely with salaries around $97,524 and $86,132, respectively. These cities provide competitive wages and strong career prospects. Denver, CO, Nashville, TN, and Los Angeles, CA, also offer above-average salaries, making them attractive places for specialists. Cities like Austin, TX, Houston, TX, and San Antonio, TX, have salaries slightly lower but still offer promising environments for professionals in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Environmental Protection Specialist jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $112,494 and San Antonio, TX with the lowest at $69,571.
  1. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $112,494
    In Washington, DC, a specialist works to enforce environmental laws and regulations. Many opportunities arise from government agencies and non-profits. The role is crucial in protecting the nation's capital.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Washington, DC


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $97,524
    Seattle offers a dynamic role for specialists in environmental protection. The city values sustainability and green energy, with major companies like Amazon and Boeing seeking professionals. They focus on water quality and air pollution reduction.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Springfield, IL
    Average Salary: $86,132
    Springfield provides a balanced career in environmental protection with its mix of government and private sectors. Specialists work to ensure clean air and water, focusing on local regulations and policies. Companies like Caterpillar often need skilled professionals.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Springfield, IL


  4. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $83,156
    Denver's specialists enjoy a vibrant outdoor lifestyle while working to protect the environment. The city’s focus on renewable energy offers many opportunities. Companies like Xcel Energy often seek out talented professionals.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Denver, CO


  5. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $79,827
    Nashville provides a unique blend of urban and natural environments. Specialists here work on projects that protect local wildlife and manage waste. The city's growth offers many opportunities for growth in this field.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Nashville, TN


  6. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $76,101
    In Los Angeles, environmental protection is key to managing pollution and conserving natural resources. Specialists often work with large companies like Tesla. They play a vital role in protecting the city's diverse ecosystems.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  7. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $73,877
    Austin offers a forward-thinking approach to environmental protection. Specialists focus on sustainable practices and renewable energy projects. The city's tech companies, such as Dell, often hire professionals in this field.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Austin, TX


  8. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $73,471
    Houston's specialists work to mitigate environmental risks in the energy sector. They focus on preventing pollution from oil and gas operations. Companies like BP and Shell offer many job opportunities for skilled professionals.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Houston, TX


  9. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $69,571
    San Antonio provides a growing field for environmental protection specialists. They work to improve air and water quality, focusing on the city’s natural resources. The local government and private companies offer many career paths.
    Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in San Antonio, TX

What are the best companies a Environmental Protection Specialist can work for?

The State of Illinois leads the way for Environmental Protection Specialists, offering an average salary of $92,255. Following closely, the State of Colorado provides a competitive average salary of $79,836. San Antonio Water System offers a solid average salary of $69,552 for these professionals. TANKNOLOGY and OWL Services also present good opportunities, with average salaries of $61,000 and $46,917, respectively. Each of these companies provides valuable roles for those committed to environmental protection.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Environmental Protection Specialist jobs, highlighting State of Illinois with the highest at $92,255 and OWL Services with the lowest at $46,917.
  1. State of Illinois
    Average Salary: $92,255
    The State of Illinois offers rewarding Environmental Protection Specialist jobs. These positions focus on protecting and improving the state's natural resources. Opportunities are available in cities like Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria.


  2. State of Colorado
    Average Salary: $79,836
    The State of Colorado provides Environmental Protection Specialist jobs with a competitive salary. These roles involve monitoring air and water quality and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Positions are located in Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins.


  3. San Antonio Water System
    Average Salary: $69,552
    San Antonio Water System hires Environmental Protection Specialists to work on water quality and pollution control. These specialists play a key role in protecting the environment and ensuring public health. Locations include San Antonio and the surrounding areas.


  4. TANKNOLOGY
    Average Salary: $61,000
    TANKNOLOGY offers Environmental Protection Specialist jobs that focus on innovative water management solutions. Employees work on projects to improve water quality and sustainability. The company operates mainly in major cities across the United States.


  5. OWL Services
    Average Salary: $46,917
    OWL Services provides Environmental Protection Specialist positions that emphasize environmental compliance and sustainability. These specialists work on various projects to protect the environment. The company operates in multiple locations across the country.

How to earn more as a Environmental Protection Specialist?

Environmental Protection Specialists have a valuable role in safeguarding our planet. They can take steps to increase their earnings in this field. One approach involves gaining more experience and advanced certifications. Experience brings greater responsibilities and often higher pay. Certifications from recognized bodies enhance credibility and skills. This combination can lead to better job opportunities and salary increases.

Another factor to consider involves specializing in high-demand areas. Focusing on niche markets like renewable energy or hazardous waste management can open doors to higher-paying roles. These areas often face critical issues and need skilled specialists. Companies may offer higher wages to attract and retain top talent. Networking with professionals in these fields can provide insights and job leads. Continuing education and staying updated with industry trends also play a crucial role. This ongoing learning helps specialists remain competitive and attractive to employers.

Location can significantly impact earnings. Specialists in urban areas or regions with strict environmental regulations often find better-paying jobs. Cities with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental protection tend to offer higher salaries. Relocating to these areas can be a strategic move for those looking to boost their income. Additionally, working with government agencies or large corporations can lead to higher wages due to their budgets and priorities. Seeking out these types of employers can make a difference.

Here are some ways to earn more as an Environmental Protection Specialist:

  1. Gain experience and advanced certifications.
  2. Specialize in high-demand areas like renewable energy or hazardous waste management.
  3. Consider working in urban areas or regions with strict environmental regulations.
  4. Network with professionals and stay updated with industry trends.
  5. Work with government agencies or large corporations.

Currently 142 Environmental Protection Specialist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Environmental Protection Specialist in the US?

Learn what a Environmental Protection Specialist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Environmental Protection Specialist today.
Position
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Environmental Protection Specialist
142 Job Openings