How much does a Environmental Specialist make?
Environmental Specialists play a vital role in protecting our planet. Their work involves ensuring that companies follow environmental laws and regulations. They earn a respectable salary, reflecting the importance of their work.
The average yearly salary for an Environmental Specialist is $62,467. This figure varies based on experience and location. Most Environmental Specialists earn between $30,445 and $127,830 per year. A small percentage of top earners make even more. Below is a detailed breakdown of the salary range:
- Bottom 10% earn about $30,445 annually.
- Top 10% earn about $127,830 or more annually.
- The majority, around 25%, earn between $48,151 and $74,711 each year.
- About 50% of Environmental Specialists make between $39,298 and $92,417 annually.
What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Specialist?

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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $97,692
In Sacramento, you can help shape the state's policies. Companies like PG&E and the California Environmental Protection Agency often seek experts. The city values sustainability and clean energy.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $88,905
Seattle is a hub for green technology. Working with firms like Microsoft and Boeing, you can make a real impact. The city's focus on innovation drives demand for environmental specialists.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $88,275
Milwaukee offers a mix of industry and nature. Firms like Johnson Controls and the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District need experts. The city's commitment to clean water is strong.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $84,224
Philadelphia has a rich history in environmental stewardship. Companies like Suez and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection need skilled professionals. The city values sustainability and community.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $81,595
Lansing is a key player in the automotive industry. Firms like General Motors and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy look for experts. The city focuses on pollution control and conservation.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $80,870
In Los Angeles, you can work with major companies like Chevron and the EPA. The city's focus on clean air and reducing emissions creates many opportunities. Environmental issues like wildfires and droughts drive the demand for specialists.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $79,702
Houston offers a dynamic environment with companies like ExxonMobil and LyondellBasell. The city faces challenges like air quality and water management. Your work can help address these issues.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $79,417
Minneapolis values sustainability and clean energy. Companies like Xcel Energy and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency need experts. The city's focus on green spaces and renewable energy offers many opportunities.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $78,596
Denver is known for its natural beauty and clean air. Companies like Black & Veatch and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment need specialists. The city's focus on outdoor recreation and conservation drives demand.
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Fort Myers, FL
Average Salary: $77,606
In Fort Myers, you can work to protect the environment with companies like Lee County and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The city's focus on protecting natural resources and wildlife creates many opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Environmental Specialist can work for?

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Kimberly-Clark
Average Salary: $118,180
Kimberly-Clark offers Environmental Specialist jobs with a focus on sustainable practices. The company operates globally and has many locations where Environmental Specialists work on projects to reduce environmental impact.
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Olsson
Average Salary: $110,000
Olsson provides Environmental Specialist jobs that emphasize innovative solutions for environmental challenges. With offices in the U.S., Olsson works on projects to enhance environmental quality and compliance.
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Luster National
Average Salary: $91,818
Luster National offers Environmental Specialist jobs with a commitment to environmental stewardship. This company operates in the U.S. and focuses on projects that protect natural resources and ecosystems.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $84,733
AECOM provides Environmental Specialist jobs with a strong focus on consulting and engineering services. This company operates worldwide and works on projects that aim to improve environmental health and safety.
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U.S. Compliance
Average Salary: $81,458
U.S. Compliance offers Environmental Specialist jobs that focus on regulatory compliance and environmental management. This company operates in the U.S. and assists clients in meeting environmental standards and regulations.
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State of Ohio
Average Salary: $74,674
The State of Ohio provides Environmental Specialist jobs with a focus on public service. These professionals work on projects to protect and preserve the state's natural resources and environments.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $73,777
The State of Washington offers Environmental Specialist jobs that aim to protect and improve the environment. These roles focus on projects that enhance sustainability and environmental health.
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State of Alaska
Average Salary: $66,112
The State of Alaska provides Environmental Specialist jobs with a focus on managing and protecting the state's unique ecosystems. These roles involve projects that ensure environmental compliance and sustainability.
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State of Maine
Average Salary: $64,115
The State of Maine offers Environmental Specialist jobs that focus on environmental protection and conservation. These roles work on projects to preserve natural resources and maintain environmental quality.
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Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC
Average Salary: $60,000
Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC provides Environmental Specialist jobs with a focus on tree care and environmental management. This company operates in the U.S. and works on projects to promote healthy urban forests and ecosystems.
How to earn more as a Environmental Specialist?
Environmental Specialists play a key role in helping companies and governments manage their environmental impact. This important work can also lead to a rewarding career with the potential for good pay. Here are some strategies to help Environmental Specialists earn more.
Experience matters a lot in this field. As Environmental Specialists gain more experience, they can take on more complex projects. They can also move into higher-paying roles. Working on diverse projects allows them to develop a wide range of skills. This skill set becomes very valuable to employers.
Gaining specialized certifications can significantly boost earning potential. Certifications in areas like hazardous waste management or environmental compliance show expertise. This expertise can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. These certifications also demonstrate a commitment to the field.
- Get More Experience: Work on various projects to build a broad skill set.
- Earn Specialized Certifications: Certifications in niche areas can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Pursue Advanced Degrees: A master's degree can open doors to higher-level positions.
- Network with Professionals: Building connections can lead to job opportunities that pay more.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Taking on management responsibilities can lead to higher salaries.



