How much does a Environmental Specialist make?
Environmental Specialists make an average yearly salary of about $61,318. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and company. Many factors can influence how much a Specialist can earn. For example, someone with more experience will typically make more. Likewise, those who work in larger cities may earn higher salaries than those in smaller towns.
Here are some typical salaries for different levels of experience:
- Entry-level: $30,445
- Mid-level: $57,542
- Senior-level: $102,703
What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Specialist?

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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $90,578
In Sacramento, working as an environmental specialist involves collaborating with the state government on environmental projects. Companies like ARCO Chemicals and Blue Shield of California offer opportunities to impact local sustainability initiatives.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $87,266
Milwaukee boasts several industrial opportunities for environmental specialists. They work with firms like Johnson Controls and Rockwell Automation, focusing on pollution control and environmental compliance.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $84,452
Philadelphia offers a mix of urban and industrial settings for environmental specialists. They might find roles with companies like Comcast and Aramark, where they support environmental policies and practices.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $84,201
Seattle is home to many tech giants and environmental firms. Specialists here can work with companies like Microsoft and Boeing, addressing environmental challenges in a progressive city.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $80,930
Los Angeles provides diverse opportunities for environmental specialists. They can work with large companies like Disney and Mattel, focusing on air quality and waste management initiatives.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $80,644
Lansing offers roles that focus on regulatory compliance and environmental research. Specialists might work with the state government or companies like General Motors, supporting sustainable practices.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $78,064
In Houston, environmental specialists often work in the energy sector. They collaborate with firms like Shell and ExxonMobil, addressing environmental concerns in an oil-rich area.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $76,681
Minneapolis has a growing demand for environmental specialists. They can find roles with companies like 3M and Target, focusing on sustainability and waste reduction initiatives.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $76,409
Buffalo offers a blend of industrial and environmental work. Specialists can work with companies like Moog and Tops Markets, focusing on environmental regulations and sustainability.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $75,141
Louisville provides opportunities in both manufacturing and environmental sectors. Specialists might work with UPS or Brown-Forman, addressing environmental challenges in a vibrant city.
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What are the best companies a Environmental Specialist can work for?

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Stantec
Average Salary: $130,924
Stantec offers rewarding Environmental Specialist positions. They work across the globe in areas like civil, environmental, and geotechnical engineering. Locations include major cities in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
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Marathon Petroleum
Average Salary: $124,350
Marathon Petroleum provides Environmental Specialist roles focused on safety and sustainability. The company operates refineries and related facilities across the United States, especially in Texas and Illinois.
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Kimberly-Clark
Average Salary: $118,180
Kimberly-Clark employs Environmental Specialists who ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They have facilities in various states across the U.S., including Texas and Wisconsin.
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Luster National
Average Salary: $91,818
Luster National hires Environmental Specialists to manage sustainability projects. They work in areas like water treatment and waste management, with projects in the Midwest and Southeast regions of the U.S.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $84,733
AECOM's Environmental Specialists focus on project management and environmental assessments. They work on projects in cities across the United States and internationally.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $75,940
The State of Washington offers Environmental Specialist jobs that involve regulatory compliance and public health protection. Positions are available in major cities like Seattle and Spokane.
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State of Ohio
Average Salary: $73,684
Environmental Specialists in the State of Ohio work on environmental protection and resource management. Positions are available in cities such as Columbus and Cleveland.
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Environmental Conservation, Department of
Average Salary: $72,503
This department hires Environmental Specialists to oversee conservation efforts and natural resource management. They operate in various regions across the U.S.
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State of Alaska
Average Salary: $67,532
The State of Alaska offers Environmental Specialist roles focused on environmental protection and sustainability. Positions are available in cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks.
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State of Minnesota
Average Salary: $66,492
Environmental Specialists in the State of Minnesota focus on environmental assessment and sustainability projects. Opportunities exist in cities such as Minneapolis and St. Paul.
How to earn more as a Environmental Specialist?
Becoming an Environmental Specialist opens many doors, but how can one maximize their earning potential? Increasing earnings starts with enhancing skills and expanding one’s professional experience. Specializing in a niche area, such as water resource management or hazardous waste disposal, can open up higher-paying opportunities. Securing certifications from recognized bodies can also make a candidate more attractive to potential employers.
Networking plays a crucial role in career advancement. Building relationships with colleagues, attending industry conferences, and participating in professional organizations can lead to better job offers and higher salaries. Keeping up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies ensures one remains competitive in the job market. Investing in further education, such as a master's degree or specialized courses, can significantly increase earning potential.
Additionally, gaining experience in project management can help an Environmental Specialist move into higher-paying roles. Working on large-scale projects, managing teams, and delivering successful outcomes can lead to promotions and salary increases. Leveraging these strategies can help Environmental Specialists earn more in their careers.
- Specialize in a niche area
- Obtain relevant certifications
- Network with industry professionals
- Stay updated with industry trends
- Gain project management experience



