How much does a Environmental Protection Specialist make?
Environmental Protection Specialists play a key role in safeguarding our environment. They work to ensure that businesses and organizations follow environmental laws and regulations. This important job comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for an Environmental Protection Specialist is around $81,524. This means that, on average, these professionals earn a good living.
The salary for Environmental Protection Specialists can vary based on experience and location. Those just starting out may earn closer to $38,000 per year. With more experience, salaries can rise significantly. The top earners in this field can make over $146,000 annually. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth and advancement in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Protection Specialist?

-
Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $118,865
In Rochester, professionals can find rewarding roles with a focus on clean water and air. Companies like Mayo Clinic and IBM work on sustainability projects. The community values environmental health, making it a great place to make a difference.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Rochester, MN
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $116,455
Seattle offers exciting opportunities in environmental protection. With tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, the city leads in green initiatives. Working here means being part of a forward-thinking community committed to sustainability.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $113,521
In Washington, DC, environmental specialists play a key role in policy and regulation. The government and organizations like the EPA offer many chances to impact environmental laws. The city's focus on green policies makes it ideal for those passionate about protecting the planet.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Washington, DC
-
Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $96,838
Anchorage provides unique challenges and rewards for environmental experts. The city's focus on preserving its natural beauty offers many opportunities. Companies like BP and ConocoPhillips work on environmental projects. The outdoors-focused lifestyle makes it a great place for nature lovers.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Anchorage, AK
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $94,849
Los Angeles offers diverse roles in environmental protection. With companies like Tesla and various government agencies, there are many ways to contribute. The city's commitment to reducing pollution and promoting green energy creates a dynamic work environment.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $91,747
Boston provides a rich environment for environmental specialists. The city's focus on education and research offers many opportunities. Working with institutions like Harvard and MIT can lead to innovative projects. The community's dedication to sustainability makes it a rewarding place to work.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Boston, MA
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $91,158
In Chicago, environmental specialists find many roles in urban planning and conservation. Companies like Exelon and the city's environmental department offer diverse projects. The city's commitment to green initiatives provides a dynamic and impactful work setting.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $83,613
Denver offers a vibrant environment for environmental protection. The city's focus on outdoor activities and conservation creates many opportunities. Working with companies like Xcel Energy and the state government can lead to impactful projects. The natural beauty of the area makes it a great place to live and work.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Denver, CO
-
Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $82,503
Atlanta provides a growing field for environmental specialists. The city's focus on urban development and green spaces offers many roles. Companies like Coca-Cola and the state government work on sustainability projects. The community's dedication to environmental health makes it a rewarding place to work.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Atlanta, GA
-
Springfield, IL
Average Salary: $75,395
Springfield offers a supportive environment for environmental protection. The city focuses on clean energy and conservation. Working with local government and companies like Ameren Illinois can lead to impactful projects. The community's commitment to sustainability makes it a great place for those passionate about the environment.
Find Environmental Protection Specialist jobs in Springfield, IL
What are the best companies a Environmental Protection Specialist can work for?

-
Moffatt & Nichol
Average Salary: $143,500
Moffatt & Nichol offers Environmental Protection Specialist jobs with a focus on sustainability and environmental consulting. They operate across the United States, with major offices in California, New York, and Washington.
-
U.S. Marine Corps
Average Salary: $105,544
The U.S. Marine Corps provides Environmental Protection Specialist roles that focus on environmental compliance and conservation. They have bases all over the world, including the United States, Japan, and Germany.
-
State of Illinois
Average Salary: $88,829
The State of Illinois offers Environmental Protection Specialist jobs that focus on state-level environmental regulations and compliance. They operate throughout the state of Illinois, with offices in Chicago and Springfield.
-
State of Colorado
Average Salary: $80,147
The State of Colorado provides Environmental Protection Specialist roles that focus on environmental protection and sustainability. They operate throughout the state of Colorado, with offices in Denver and Boulder.
-
Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
Average Salary: $76,957
The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts offers Environmental Protection Specialist jobs that focus on environmental compliance and reporting. They operate throughout the state of Texas, with offices in Austin and Houston.
-
Ledcor
Average Salary: $65,973
Ledcor provides Environmental Protection Specialist jobs that focus on environmental compliance and sustainability in construction projects. They operate throughout the United States, with major offices in California, Oregon, and Washington.
-
State of Tennessee
Average Salary: $62,379
The State of Tennessee offers Environmental Protection Specialist roles that focus on environmental regulations and compliance. They operate throughout the state of Tennessee, with offices in Nashville and Memphis.
-
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Average Salary: $52,750
The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides Environmental Protection Specialist jobs that focus on environmental response and disaster management. They operate throughout the United States, with major offices in Washington, D.C., and California.
-
Opal Foods
Average Salary: $39,385
Opal Foods offers Environmental Protection Specialist jobs that focus on food safety and sustainability. They operate throughout the United States, with major offices in California and Washington.
How to earn more as a Environmental Protection Specialist?
Environmental Protection Specialists can find several ways to increase their earnings. Gaining more experience and expertise in the field often leads to higher salaries. Specialization in areas like air quality, water management, or hazardous waste can also open up higher-paying positions. Networking with other professionals and staying informed about industry trends can lead to better job opportunities. Pursuing advanced certifications or degrees can also boost earning potential. Finally, seeking roles in larger cities or regions with higher living costs can result in higher salaries.
Here are some key factors to consider for increasing earnings as an Environmental Protection Specialist:
- Experience and Expertise: More years in the field and specialized skills can lead to higher pay.
- Specialization: Focusing on specific areas like air quality or water management can open up higher-paying roles.
- Networking: Building connections with other professionals can lead to better job opportunities and salary increases.
- Advanced Education: Pursuing advanced certifications or degrees can boost earning potential.
- Location: Working in larger cities or regions with higher living costs can result in higher salaries.