How much does a Environmental Protection Specialist make?
Environmental Protection Specialists often find rewarding careers in this field. They earn a good salary, with the average yearly pay being around $77,285. This range can vary based on experience, location, and specific responsibilities. Professionals in the lower 10 percent earn about $38,000, while those in the top 10 percent can make up to $150,820. This makes it an attractive career for those committed to environmental sustainability.
The salary data shows a clear progression with experience. For instance, those with less than a year of experience earn around $38,000. With a few years under their belt, salaries climb to $48,256. Those in the mid-career range of 10 to 20 years earn between $68,769 and $79,026. Top-tier specialists, often with over 20 years of experience, earn the highest salaries, up to $150,820. This salary range reflects the value placed on expertise and dedication in environmental protection.
What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Protection Specialist?
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $112,262
In Seattle, this role involves monitoring and improving environmental quality. Companies like Amazon and Starbucks look for experts to ensure sustainability practices. The city's focus on green initiatives offers great opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $110,407
Working in Washington, DC means shaping policies that protect the environment. Key employers include the EPA and various non-profits. The city's role in national policy offers significant influence in environmental protection.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $86,860
Atlanta values green spaces and clean air, making it a key city for this job. Companies like Coca-Cola seek professionals to minimize environmental impact. The fast-growing city offers many chances to make a difference.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $86,551
Los Angeles faces unique environmental challenges. Professionals here work to improve air quality and protect natural resources. Major firms like Chevron look for experts to help meet sustainability goals.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $84,481
Denver's love for the outdoors makes it a great place for environmental specialists. Companies such as Xcel Energy need help managing their environmental impact. The city’s commitment to green living creates many job opportunities.
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Springfield, IL
Average Salary: $81,211
Springfield offers a balanced approach to environmental work. Local government and companies like Caterpillar seek experts to ensure compliance with environmental laws. The city values sustainability and offers a supportive work environment.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $78,367
Houston's role in the energy sector means this job focuses on managing environmental impact. Companies such as BP and Shell need professionals to help meet regulatory standards. The city offers diverse opportunities to work on critical environmental issues.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $73,591
Austin’s focus on innovation makes it an exciting place for environmental work. Tech firms like Dell and Apple look for specialists to promote sustainable practices. The city’s vibrant culture adds to the rewarding experience.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $70,609
Nashville values both its natural beauty and economic growth. Companies like Ingram Micro seek experts to ensure environmental standards are met. The city’s dedication to sustainability offers a fulfilling career path.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $68,112
San Antonio’s commitment to environmental health makes it an ideal place for this job. Key employers include CPS Energy and various local firms. The city's focus on green initiatives provides many opportunities for growth and impact.
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What are the best companies a Environmental Protection Specialist can work for?
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Moffatt & Nichol
Average Salary: $143,500
Moffatt & Nichol offers high-paying roles for Environmental Protection Specialists. The company provides sustainable solutions and innovative engineering services across the U.S., including notable operations in California, Texas, and Florida. They focus on projects that emphasize environmental protection, making them an excellent choice for those who care deeply about sustainability.
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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $92,028
The State of Illinois provides competitive salaries for Environmental Protection Specialists. They have multiple locations across the state, including Chicago and Springfield. Specialists work on ensuring the state's environmental health by monitoring and managing pollution, making Illinois a great place for those passionate about public service and environmental protection.
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State of Colorado
Average Salary: $77,097
The State of Colorado offers attractive salaries for Environmental Protection Specialists. With operations in cities like Denver and Boulder, specialists work to protect the environment through regulatory compliance and sustainable practices. Colorado's commitment to clean energy and environmental stewardship makes it a rewarding place to work.
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San Antonio Water System
Average Salary: $65,215
San Antonio Water System provides solid opportunities for Environmental Protection Specialists in San Antonio, Texas. They focus on delivering clean and safe water while protecting the environment. Specialists play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, contributing to the city's sustainability efforts.
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OWL Services
Average Salary: $45,545
OWL Services offers positions for Environmental Protection Specialists with a focus on environmental consulting. They operate in various locations, including Washington D.C., and offer rewarding careers for those looking to make a difference in environmental protection. Their work includes environmental assessments and compliance monitoring.
How to earn more as a Environmental Protection Specialist?
Environmental Protection Specialists have the opportunity to earn more by enhancing their skill set and experience. This can be achieved through various means, including gaining specialized certifications, acquiring advanced degrees, and expanding industry knowledge. Seeking positions with more responsibilities or in higher-paying regions can also lead to increased earnings. Networking with professionals in the field and staying updated with industry trends can open doors to better job opportunities.
Specializations in areas such as air quality management, hazardous waste disposal, or regulatory compliance can make a specialist more valuable. Advanced degrees or certifications in environmental science, law, or public policy can significantly boost earning potential. Increasing experience and taking on leadership roles can lead to higher-paying positions. Engaging with professional organizations and attending conferences can provide networking opportunities and insights into industry developments. Relocating to areas with higher demand for environmental protection specialists can also result in higher salaries.
The following factors can help Environmental Protection Specialists earn more:
- Gain specialized certifications.
- Acquire advanced degrees in relevant fields.
- Seek positions with more responsibilities.
- Expand industry knowledge through networking and training.
- Relocate to areas with higher demand and salaries.
