How much does a Environmental Scientist make?
An Environmental Scientist typically earns an average of $69,476 per year. This field offers a range of salaries depending on experience, location, and specific industry. For those just starting, the salary may be on the lower end, around $44,240. As experience grows, so does the salary, with seasoned professionals often earning upwards of $119,282 annually.
The salary range reflects the diverse opportunities available in environmental science. Environmental Scientists work in various sectors, such as government agencies, consulting firms, and private companies. This diversity contributes to differences in compensation. The job involves analyzing environmental data, developing solutions for environmental issues, and advising on policies. Because of the critical nature of the work, salaries generally provide a good reward for the expertise and responsibility involved.
What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Scientist?
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $106,536
In San Francisco, professionals in this field help create sustainable solutions for a tech-driven city. Companies like Google and Tesla offer exciting opportunities to innovate in environmental science.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $97,410
Seattle's green culture makes it a great place for those who care about the environment. Work with leaders like Amazon and Starbucks to protect natural resources in this vibrant city.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $92,870
Los Angeles offers diverse opportunities for environmental scientists. Tackle air quality and water conservation projects with major firms like Disney and the City of Los Angeles.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $88,821
Anchorage provides unique challenges and rewards for environmental scientists. Companies such as BP and ConocoPhillips focus on sustainable practices in the Arctic environment.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $84,549
Chicago offers a mix of urban and natural environments to study. Organizations like the EPA and local government agencies look for skilled professionals to improve city sustainability.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $81,788
In Washington, DC, you can work with government agencies and non-profits to shape environmental policy. Companies like the World Bank seek experts to address global environmental issues.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $81,550
Boston's rich academic scene offers many paths for environmental scientists. Work with universities and companies like Biogen to advance research and sustainability projects.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $81,498
Providence's focus on urban green spaces provides diverse opportunities. Companies like CVS Health and local government agencies work to improve city sustainability.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $80,728
Baltimore offers many projects to enhance urban environments. Work with companies like Under Armour and local government to tackle air and water quality issues.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $78,969
Las Vegas provides a unique setting for environmental science. Companies like MGM Resorts and local government agencies work on sustainability and conservation in desert landscapes.
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What are the best companies a Environmental Scientist can work for?
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King County, WA
Average Salary: $108,377
King County, located in Washington, offers dynamic Environmental Scientist roles focused on urban environmental challenges. The company is dedicated to sustainability and innovation in Seattle and surrounding areas.
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Freeport-McMoRan
Average Salary: $101,030
Freeport-McMoRan is a leading mining company with a strong focus on environmental stewardship. Environmental Scientist roles involve ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and promoting sustainable practices across multiple U.S. states.
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Burns & McDonnell
Average Salary: $95,714
Burns & McDonnell provides a variety of opportunities for Environmental Scientists. They work on diverse projects in engineering, architecture, and consulting, focusing on environmental impact assessments and solutions across the nation.
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Anchor QEA
Average Salary: $94,478
Anchor QEA offers Environmental Scientist positions that involve expert analysis and consulting services. They work on projects that improve environmental management and sustainability, with offices located in several key U.S. cities.
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Langan Engineering and Environmental Services
Average Salary: $85,625
Langan provides Environmental Scientist roles that focus on environmental engineering and consulting. They work on projects that aim to protect and enhance the natural environment, with locations across the United States.
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State of Nevada
Average Salary: $83,451
The State of Nevada offers rewarding Environmental Scientist positions that focus on protecting and enhancing the state's natural resources. Roles are available in various locations within Nevada.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $82,595
Stantec offers Environmental Scientist roles that focus on sustainable design and development. They work on projects that aim to protect and restore the environment, with offices across North America.
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Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $78,460
Geosyntec provides Environmental Scientist positions that involve environmental consulting and remediation services. They work on projects to manage and mitigate environmental impacts, with offices located in multiple U.S. states.
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Tighe & Bond
Average Salary: $78,308
Tighe & Bond offers Environmental Scientist roles that focus on environmental engineering and consulting. They work on projects to manage environmental risks and promote sustainability, with offices in several key U.S. cities.
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State of Utah
Average Salary: $78,162
The State of Utah offers Environmental Scientist positions that focus on environmental protection and resource management. Roles are available in various locations within Utah.
How to earn more as a Environmental Scientist?
Environmental scientists can take several steps to increase their earnings. Focusing on specialization can lead to higher pay. Specializing in areas like air quality assessment or hazardous waste management often commands higher salaries. Continuing education also plays a key role. Advanced degrees or certifications in environmental science can open doors to better-paying positions.
Experience is another crucial factor. Those with more years in the field usually earn more. Gaining a broad range of experiences and projects can also help. Networking within the industry can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Lastly, seeking positions with companies known for competitive salaries can make a difference. Researching and applying to companies with strong financial backing can lead to better pay.
Consider these factors for earning more as an environmental scientist:
- Specialization in high-demand areas
- Continuous education and certifications
- Experience and diverse project involvement
- Building a strong professional network
- Targeting companies with competitive salaries
