How much does a Environmental Specialist make?
Environmental Specialists play a key role in protecting the planet. They work to ensure that companies follow environmental laws and regulations. This job can be both rewarding and financially stable. The average yearly salary for an Environmental Specialist is $61,396. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
The salary range for Environmental Specialists can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn around $31,000 per year. The top 10% earn more than $125,000 annually. Most specialists fall somewhere in the middle. For example, those in the 25th percentile earn about $39,545, while those in the 75th percentile earn around $90,818. This wide range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field. With experience and additional qualifications, Environmental Specialists can see their salaries increase significantly.
What are the highest paying cities for a Environmental Specialist?

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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $88,837
In Sacramento, professionals in environmental roles work with state agencies and local companies. They focus on water quality and air pollution. Companies like the California Department of Water Resources offer many opportunities.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $87,156
Philadelphia offers a mix of government and private sector jobs. Environmental specialists here often work on urban sustainability projects. The city's focus on green initiatives makes it a great place for those passionate about environmental policy.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $79,962
Los Angeles provides diverse opportunities in environmental consulting and government. Specialists here often work on projects related to air quality and waste management. Companies like AECOM and Jacobs Engineering are prominent in the area.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $79,736
Lansing offers a stable environment for environmental specialists. They work on state-level projects focusing on water resources and pollution control. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is a key employer.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $79,232
Seattle is known for its tech-driven environmental solutions. Specialists here often work on renewable energy projects. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft offer innovative roles in sustainability.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $76,908
Minneapolis provides a mix of urban and natural environments. Specialists work on projects related to water conservation and green building. The city's focus on sustainability makes it an attractive place for environmental professionals.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $76,361
Denver offers a dynamic environment for environmental specialists. They work on projects related to air quality and natural resource management. The city's outdoor focus provides many opportunities in conservation.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $75,573
Houston offers diverse opportunities in environmental consulting and energy sectors. Specialists work on projects related to air quality and waste management. Companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron are prominent in the area.
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Fort Myers, FL
Average Salary: $75,214
Fort Myers provides a unique blend of coastal and urban environmental challenges. Specialists work on projects related to water quality and habitat conservation. The city's focus on tourism makes it a great place for environmental roles.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $75,141
Louisville offers a mix of industrial and natural environments. Specialists work on projects related to water quality and pollution control. The city's focus on urban development provides many opportunities in environmental management.
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What are the best companies a Environmental Specialist can work for?

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Stantec
Average Salary: $136,329
Stantec offers exciting opportunities for Environmental Specialists. They work on projects across the globe, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Stantec focuses on sustainable development and environmental protection.
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Marathon Petroleum
Average Salary: $124,650
Marathon Petroleum provides a competitive salary for Environmental Specialists. They operate in the United States and Canada. The company emphasizes safety and environmental stewardship in its operations.
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Kimberly-Clark
Average Salary: $118,180
Kimberly-Clark offers rewarding Environmental Specialist roles. They have facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia. The company is committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $77,620
The State of Washington offers Environmental Specialist positions with a focus on environmental protection and conservation. They operate throughout the state. The role involves working with local communities and government agencies.
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State of Ohio
Average Salary: $72,531
The State of Ohio provides Environmental Specialist jobs with a focus on environmental regulation and compliance. They operate across the state. The role involves working with various state agencies and local governments.
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Fisher Associates
Average Salary: $72,215
Fisher Associates offers Environmental Specialist roles with a focus on environmental consulting. They work in various locations across the United States. The company provides opportunities for professional growth and development.
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Environmental Conservation, Department of
Average Salary: $70,954
The Department of Environmental Conservation offers Environmental Specialist positions with a focus on protecting natural resources. They operate throughout the state. The role involves working with local communities and government agencies.
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State of Minnesota
Average Salary: $70,249
The State of Minnesota provides Environmental Specialist jobs with a focus on environmental protection and conservation. They operate across the state. The role involves working with local communities and government agencies.
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State of Alaska
Average Salary: $66,492
The State of Alaska offers Environmental Specialist positions with a focus on environmental regulation and conservation. They operate throughout the state. The role involves working with local communities and government agencies.
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State of Maine
Average Salary: $62,619
The State of Maine provides Environmental Specialist jobs with a focus on environmental protection and conservation. They operate across the state. The role involves working with local communities and government agencies.
How to earn more as a Environmental Specialist?
Environmental specialists can find many ways to increase their earnings. They can focus on gaining more experience, improving their skills, and expanding their professional network. These efforts can lead to higher-paying positions and more opportunities for advancement.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as an environmental specialist:
- Gain More Experience: Working in the field for several years can lead to higher-paying jobs. Experience helps build a strong resume and increases your value to employers.
- Pursue Advanced Degrees: Earning a master’s degree or a Ph.D. can open up higher-level positions. These advanced degrees can lead to roles with greater responsibility and higher pay.
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Focusing on areas like renewable energy, climate change, or hazardous waste management can increase your market value. These specialized skills are in high demand and can lead to better-paying jobs.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Certifications such as LEED accreditation or the Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) designation can boost your credentials. These certifications show employers that you have the skills and knowledge needed for advanced roles.
- Network and Build Relationships: Connecting with other professionals in the industry can lead to job opportunities. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and participate in online forums. Building a strong network can help you learn about new job openings and gain referrals.



