How much does a Environmental Safety Specialist make?
Environmental Safety Specialists help ensure workplaces are safe from hazards. They look for problems and find ways to fix them. This important role pays well. The average yearly salary for an Environmental Safety Specialist is $76,205. People in the top 10% earn more than $162,455 a year. Most earn between $62,091 and $87,182. These numbers can change based on experience, education, and location.
Factors like where you work and your level of experience affect your pay. For instance, those working in manufacturing or construction often earn more. Specialists with many years of experience and advanced degrees can also earn higher salaries. This field offers good pay and the chance to make a real difference in safety.
What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Safety Specialist?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $115,443
In Los Angeles, professionals in environmental safety can find roles with diverse companies like Chevron and AECOM. They work on projects that address urban pollution and waste management. The city's emphasis on green initiatives offers many opportunities for impactful work.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $109,477
Chicago is home to many large corporations, including Exelon and Boeing. Environmental safety experts here play a key role in managing industrial emissions and waste. The city's commitment to sustainability makes it a hub for environmental advancement.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $107,246
Seattle has a strong focus on environmental protection with companies like Boeing and Microsoft. Environmental safety specialists in this city tackle issues related to water quality and air pollution. They work in a city that values sustainability, offering many career opportunities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $106,020
Sacramento offers opportunities with state agencies and local firms like PG&E. Specialists here address issues like hazardous waste management and environmental regulations. The city's growing focus on green energy creates a dynamic work environment.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $101,167
Salt Lake City has a mix of government roles and private companies like Kennecott. Environmental safety experts here focus on mining operations and water resource management. The city’s outdoor culture adds to the appeal of the job.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $100,947
In Washington, DC, environmental safety specialists work with federal agencies and companies like Raytheon. They focus on regulatory compliance and environmental impact assessments. The city's political environment provides many opportunities for policy influence.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $98,447
Portland is known for its green lifestyle, with companies like Nike and Portland General Electric. Specialists here focus on sustainable practices and renewable energy. The city’s commitment to the environment makes it an exciting place to work.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $90,302
Cincinnati has a strong industrial base with companies like Procter & Gamble and Kroger. Environmental safety experts here manage industrial emissions and waste. The city’s focus on manufacturing creates a need for skilled environmental professionals.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $89,947
Boston offers opportunities with both academic institutions and companies like General Dynamics. Environmental safety experts here work on urban environmental issues and water quality. The city’s history of innovation provides a unique work setting.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $89,732
San Diego has a mix of military and private sector roles, with companies like Qualcomm and Naval Base San Diego. Specialists here address marine environmental issues and waste management. The city’s coastal location adds a unique aspect to the job.
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What are the best companies a Environmental Safety Specialist can work for?

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State of Connecticut
Average Salary: $89,703
The State of Connecticut offers competitive salaries for Environmental Safety Specialists. These professionals work in various state departments, focusing on ensuring safe and healthy work environments. Locations include Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford. The state values environmental safety and offers numerous opportunities for career growth.
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Kimley-Horn
Average Salary: $88,163
Kimley-Horn provides high-paying jobs for Environmental Safety Specialists. This company works with public and private clients across various sectors, including transportation, energy, and utilities. Specialists in this role work on projects in locations such as Charlotte, Atlanta, and Washington D.C. Kimley-Horn offers a supportive environment and opportunities to gain diverse experience.
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Colorado State University
Average Salary: $62,955
Colorado State University offers rewarding roles for Environmental Safety Specialists. These professionals contribute to campus safety and environmental protection. The university operates in Fort Collins. Environmental Safety Specialists here work in a dynamic setting, supporting educational and research missions.
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State of Florida
Average Salary: $58,093
The State of Florida offers jobs for Environmental Safety Specialists in various departments, focusing on ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Locations include Tallahassee, Miami, and Orlando. The state provides a stable working environment and encourages professional development.
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State of Missouri
Average Salary: $50,303
The State of Missouri offers jobs for Environmental Safety Specialists that focus on public health and safety. Specialists work across multiple cities, including Jefferson City, Springfield, and Kansas City. This role involves ensuring workplaces meet safety standards and regulations.
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HB NEXT
Average Salary: $39,651
HB NEXT provides opportunities for Environmental Safety Specialists in various locations, including Indianapolis and Chicago. These roles involve working on environmental projects and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. HB NEXT offers a supportive and collaborative work environment.
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CMS Environmental Solutions
Average Salary: $39,509
CMS Environmental Solutions offers positions for Environmental Safety Specialists across the country. These roles involve working on a variety of projects related to environmental safety and compliance. Specialists can expect to work in places like Denver and Los Angeles. The company promotes a collaborative and dynamic work environment.
How to earn more as a Environmental Safety Specialist?
An Environmental Safety Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring workplace safety and compliance with environmental regulations. Increasing earning potential in this role often depends on a mix of skills, experiences, and certifications. By focusing on specific areas, professionals can enhance their value and earn more.
Here are several key factors that can help Environmental Safety Specialists earn more:
- Gaining Certifications: Earning recognized certifications such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST) can boost earning potential. These credentials demonstrate a specialist's knowledge and commitment to safety.
- Expanding Experience: More experience in various industries and roles brings greater value. Specialists with a diverse background can tackle complex safety challenges and offer valuable insights to employers.
- Specializing in High-Demand Areas: Focusing on niche areas such as hazardous waste management, industrial hygiene, or process safety management can lead to higher-paying opportunities. These specialized skills are in high demand.
- Enhancing Technical Skills: Proficiency in safety software and technology can make a specialist more efficient and effective. Knowledge of tools like Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and data analysis software can improve job performance.
- Pursuing Higher Education: Obtaining a degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, or a related field can lead to higher salary levels. Advanced degrees often open up more senior-level positions.



