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How much does a Environmental Scientist make?

The average salary for a Environmental Scientist is $75,309 per year in the US.

Environmental scientists focus on protecting the environment and improving sustainability. Their work can involve researching pollution, creating new methods to reduce waste, and advising businesses on eco-friendly practices. These professionals earn a good salary for their efforts. The average yearly salary for an environmental scientist is around $75,309. This is above the national average for all jobs.

The salary for environmental scientists varies based on experience and location. Entry-level positions start lower, around $43,841 per year. As experience grows, salaries increase significantly. Those with five to ten years in the field earn between $70,525 and $79,419. More experienced scientists can make upwards of $114,997 annually. Geographic location also affects earnings. For example, states like California and New York offer higher salaries due to the cost of living and demand for environmental scientists.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Scientist?

Seattle, WA, stands out as a top city for environmental scientists, offering an average salary of $96,580. This high pay reflects the demand for skilled professionals in this green-friendly city. Philadelphia, PA, follows closely with an average salary of $95,654, showing a strong job market for environmental experts. Other cities also promise lucrative opportunities, including Anchorage, AK, and Baltimore, MD, with average salaries above $92,000. Los Angeles, CA, and Honolulu, HI, offer average salaries around $88,000, making them competitive choices. Phoenix, AZ, Boston, MA, Providence, RI, and San Antonio, TX, also provide solid compensation for those in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Environmental Scientist jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $96,580 and San Antonio, TX with the lowest at $85,907.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $96,580
    In Seattle, work involves analyzing environmental data and advising on conservation projects. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft often hire environmental experts for their sustainability initiatives.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $95,654
    Philadelphia offers a range of opportunities for those in environmental fields. Here, you may focus on water quality assessments and pollution control. Notable employers include the EPA and local government agencies.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  3. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $92,679
    Anchorage provides a unique environment for professionals to study the effects of climate change on wildlife and ecosystems. Companies such as BP and ConocoPhillips often seek environmental experts.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Anchorage, AK


  4. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $89,447
    Baltimore is a hub for environmental science, with a focus on urban ecosystems and air quality. You may find opportunities with organizations like the Chesapeake Bay Program and local universities.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Baltimore, MD


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $88,872
    In Los Angeles, experts work on air pollution and waste management. Companies like the City of Los Angeles and Caltech often need environmental professionals to help meet sustainability goals.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $88,615
    Honolulu offers a chance to study marine and coastal environments. Here, you can work on projects involving coral reef conservation and water quality, often with state agencies and non-profits.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Honolulu, HI


  7. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $88,558
    Phoenix presents a need for professionals in water resource management and air quality. Opportunities are available with the state government and companies like American Electric Power.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  8. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $88,165
    Boston’s environmental sector emphasizes research and education. You may find roles with institutions like Harvard University and local environmental advocacy groups.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Boston, MA


  9. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $86,104
    Providence offers diverse environmental roles, focusing on urban ecology and renewable energy. Organizations such as the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management often seek skilled professionals.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in Providence, RI


  10. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $85,907
    San Antonio provides opportunities to work on water conservation and land use. Key employers include the city’s environmental departments and private consulting firms.
    Find Environmental Scientist jobs in San Antonio, TX

What are the best companies a Environmental Scientist can work for?

Freeport-McMoRan leads the way as the top-paying company for environmental scientists, offering an average salary of $108,167. Both the Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Department of Cannabis Control provide competitive salaries for those in the field, with averages around $103,418 and $102,797, respectively. Opportunities with Langan Engineering & Environmental Services and the State Water Resources Control Board also offer attractive compensation for skilled professionals.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Environmental Scientist jobs, highlighting Freeport-McMoRan with the highest at $108,167 and Ahtna, Inc. with the lowest at $85,174.
  1. Freeport-McMoRan
    Average Salary: $108,167
    Freeport-McMoRan offers dynamic roles for Environmental Scientists. They work on major mining projects worldwide. Locations include Arizona, Texas, Indonesia, and Peru.


  2. Department of Parks and Wildlife
    Average Salary: $103,418
    The Department of Parks and Wildlife provides valuable opportunities for Environmental Scientists. They focus on conservation projects in various state parks. Locations span across the United States.


  3. Department of Cannabis Control
    Average Salary: $102,797
    The Department of Cannabis Control employs Environmental Scientists to ensure compliance with environmental laws. They focus on sustainable practices. Locations are primarily in California.


  4. Langan Engineering & Environmental Services
    Average Salary: $94,691
    Langan Engineering & Environmental Services hires Environmental Scientists for various projects. They offer roles focusing on environmental consulting. Locations are across the U.S.


  5. State Water Resources Control Board
    Average Salary: $94,378
    The State Water Resources Control Board provides opportunities for Environmental Scientists in water quality management. They work on statewide water projects. Locations are in California.


  6. Ninyo & Moore Geotechnical and Environmental Sciences Consultants
    Average Salary: $91,250
    Ninyo & Moore employs Environmental Scientists in geotechnical and environmental consulting. They focus on site assessments and remediation. Locations include California, New York, and Texas.


  7. GPI / Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.
    Average Salary: $90,308
    GPI / Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. offers roles for Environmental Scientists in environmental engineering. They work on infrastructure projects. Locations are across the U.S.


  8. HDR
    Average Salary: $87,007
    HDR hires Environmental Scientists for environmental consulting and design services. They work on infrastructure and sustainability projects. Locations are globally spread.


  9. STATE OF NEW MEXICO-ALTSD
    Average Salary: $86,834
    The STATE OF NEW MEXICO-ALTSD employs Environmental Scientists for air and waste management. They focus on public health and environmental protection. Locations are in New Mexico.


  10. Ahtna, Inc.
    Average Salary: $85,174
    Ahtna, Inc. offers Environmental Scientist roles focused on environmental impact assessments. They work on projects in Alaska. Locations are primarily in Alaska.

How to earn more as a Environmental Scientist?

A career in environmental science offers numerous opportunities for growth and higher earnings. Pursuing a higher education degree can significantly increase earning potential. Specialized certifications can also open up higher-paying positions. Gaining experience in the field through internships or entry-level roles will build your skill set and make you more competitive in the job market. Networking with professionals in the industry can lead to job opportunities that may not be publicly advertised. Staying updated on the latest environmental regulations and technologies can make a professional more valuable to employers.

Environmental scientists can enhance their career prospects by specializing in a niche area such as climate change, water quality, or conservation. Positions in research and development often come with higher salaries. Working for the government, consulting firms, or large corporations tends to pay more than non-profit organizations or smaller firms. Relocation to areas with high demand for environmental scientists can also lead to higher salaries. Continuous education and professional development can keep skills sharp and lead to promotions.

Maximizing earnings as an environmental scientist involves a combination of education, experience, and professional development. These factors create a solid foundation for career growth and higher pay.

  • Higher Education Degrees
  • Specialized Certifications
  • Gaining Experience
  • Networking
  • Specialization in Niche Areas

Currently 273 Environmental Scientist job openings, nationwide.

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

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