8 High-Paying Environmental Jobs You Should Know

In today’s job market, careers in environmental fields are offering high salaries while addressing urgent global challenges. These roles span law, engineering, data analysis, and program management, combining financial rewards with meaningful impact. Here are eight well-paying jobs to consider:

• Environmental Lawyer: Advocate for cleaner resources and help organizations navigate regulations.
• Environmental Engineer: Solve pollution and waste challenges using science and engineering.
• Energy Manager: Develop strategies to reduce energy costs and usage.
• Sustainability Engineer: Design systems and products that reduce waste and emissions.
• Geoscientist: Study Earth’s systems to manage resources responsibly.
• Environmental Manager: Lead corporate programs to minimize environmental impact.
• Climate Change Analyst: Use data to predict and address climate challenges.
• Get Outdoor Jobs (Job Board): A platform to find roles across the environmental sector.

These careers offer competitive salaries, with many roles earning $75,000 to $120,000 annually or more, depending on location, experience, and employer type. The demand for these professionals is growing as industries prioritize sustainability and stricter regulations. Whether you’re interested in legal, technical, or management roles, there’s a path for every skill set.

Top 8 Highest Paying Jobs in Environmental Science // Environmental Science Careers and Salaries

1. Environmental Lawyer

Environmental lawyers combine their legal expertise with a passion for protecting the environment. They represent individuals, businesses, and even the environment itself in cases tied to environmental justice. Their work involves advocating for cleaner air, water, and land while helping organizations navigate complex regulations. Ultimately, they play a crucial role in shaping how companies operate and how communities safeguard natural resources.

Key Responsibilities

Environmental lawyers handle a wide range of legal issues focused on environmental protection. They advise clients on how proposed actions or changes could affect people, wildlife, and ecosystems. A significant part of their role involves investigating environmental incidents - like chemical spills, air quality violations, or habitat destruction - and building cases to hold negligent parties accountable. They also provide guidance on issues such as pollution control, waste management, and recycling practices.

Regulatory compliance is another core aspect of the job. Lawyers in this field help clients secure permits for construction projects, ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local environmental laws. This often involves conducting thorough research and engaging in negotiations with developers, government agencies, and community organizations.

Environmental lawyers may work for government bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the U.S. Department of Justice. Others find opportunities in private law firms or with advocacy groups that focus on environmental issues.

Required Qualifications

Becoming an environmental lawyer requires a specific educational path. Start with a bachelor’s degree in a field like law, political science, business, environmental studies, science, or engineering. A background in science or environmental studies can be particularly helpful for understanding issues like pollution and ecosystem dynamics.

Next, you’ll need to attend law school and earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. While in law school, prioritize courses in environmental law, administrative law, and natural resources to build expertise in this area.

After graduation, passing the state bar exam is essential. If you plan to practice in multiple states, you may need to take additional exams. Gaining work experience is equally important - internships or entry-level roles at private firms or environmental agencies can provide valuable hands-on learning.

Salary Range

Earnings in environmental law vary based on factors like experience, employer type, and location. Lawyers working for federal agencies, large law firms, or major corporations tend to earn higher salaries compared to those employed by nonprofit organizations. Additionally, professionals in urban areas or regions with strict environmental regulations often receive higher compensation.

Up next, we’ll explore a technical career that complements the legal efforts to protect our environment.

2. Environmental Engineer

Environmental engineers tackle some of the most urgent challenges we face today by applying engineering and scientific principles to craft practical solutions. Whether it’s cleaning up contaminated sites or designing systems to curb pollution, these professionals work at the crossroads of technical expertise and environmental responsibility. They draw on a mix of disciplines - soil science, biology, chemistry, hydrology, and geology - to directly influence sustainable practices across industries.

This role isn’t just about theory. Environmental engineers actively shape how industries function by advising corporations and government agencies on environmental policies and standards. They help organizations shift toward greener practices while ensuring compliance with regulations that safeguard air, water, and land quality.

Key Responsibilities

Environmental engineers take on a variety of tasks, including:

• Designing and implementing strategies to manage environmental hazards.
• Developing sustainable solutions for recycling, waste disposal, public health, and pollution control.
• Evaluating the environmental impact of land use projects.
• Providing technical expertise for remediation efforts, such as designing systems to clean up polluted areas and restore them to safe conditions.
• Inspecting industrial facilities and municipal programs to ensure they comply with environmental regulations and recommending cleanup procedures when necessary.
• Creating and managing programs to conserve natural resources, which might include designing water treatment systems, reducing emissions, or overseeing pollution-control installations.

Required Qualifications

To start, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in engineering. For those aiming for specialized or leadership positions, a master’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field like chemical or civil engineering can unlock advanced opportunities and higher salaries. Alongside academic credentials, strong problem-solving skills and the ability to collaborate effectively are crucial. Environmental engineers often work closely with government regulators, corporate leaders, and community stakeholders.

Salary Range

The field of environmental engineering offers competitive pay that reflects the high level of expertise required. As of May 2024, the median annual salary was $104,170. That said, earnings can vary significantly. By March 2025, average salaries ranged from $75,718 to $108,000, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting $100,090, Glassdoor listing $108,000, and Zippia indicating $75,718.

Location is a big factor in salary differences. States like California, Texas, Louisiana, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Alaska, and West Virginia offer some of the highest wages for environmental engineers. In cities like Houston and New York, demand is robust, with many positions in Houston offering over $80,000 annually. Education, experience, and professional certifications also play a role in determining compensation.

Next, let’s look at how energy management roles help organizations maximize resource efficiency.

3. Energy Manager

Energy managers focus on making energy usage smarter and more efficient. Their goal? To reduce costs, improve energy efficiency, and minimize the impact on the environment. These professionals create and execute energy management strategies tailored for buildings and industrial facilities. You’ll find them working at well-known organizations like Meta, Pfizer, General Motors, EDF Trading, California State University, and even the City of New York.

Next, let’s look at how sustainability engineers ensure environmental responsibility is built into processes from the ground up.

4. Sustainability Engineer

Sustainability engineers focus on creating products and systems that are efficient, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly. They work closely with engineering teams to develop methods that reduce waste and limit pollutants, ensuring their designs are both practical and eco-conscious.

Key Responsibilities

Sustainability engineers play a critical role in designing products and systems that align with environmental goals. They collaborate with teams to find ways to cut down on waste and emissions, whether in manufacturing processes or product development. Their ultimate aim is to deliver solutions that are not only efficient but also built to endure over time.

Required Qualifications

To become a sustainability engineer, you'll need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, civil, or agricultural engineering. This education equips you with the technical expertise to tackle complex challenges and create sustainable designs. Many employers also value professional certifications, such as the Certified Sustainable Development Professional credential from the Association of Energy Engineers. Such certifications highlight your dedication to sustainability and your specialized knowledge in the field.

Salary Range

Salaries for sustainability engineers are competitive, reflecting the specialized nature of the role. In the U.S., earnings typically range from $92,369 to $120,000 annually. Factors like experience, location, and employer can influence pay. For example, Indeed reports an average salary of $109,054, Glassdoor lists $120,000, and Salary.com shows $92,369. States offering the highest pay include California, Texas, New York, Florida, Colorado, and Washington. Leading companies hiring in this field include Lockheed Martin, AspenAerogels, AAMU RISE-Foundation, North American Hoganas, and Purolite.

Job Growth Potential

The demand for sustainability engineers is on the rise. Between 2022 and 2032, job growth in this field is expected to outpace the average for all occupations, following a similar trend seen in environmental engineering roles. As businesses increasingly focus on sustainability and environmental accountability, professionals skilled in designing eco-friendly systems are becoming essential. This makes it an ideal time to pursue a career in sustainability engineering or make a transition into this expanding field.

Next, discover how geoscientists use Earth sciences to manage environmental challenges.

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5. Geoscientist

Geoscientists delve into the complexities of Earth's systems, using their knowledge to better understand our planet and guide the responsible use of its resources. Their work often involves a mix of outdoor fieldwork and detailed laboratory analysis, making them essential contributors to efforts aimed at safeguarding the environment. Here's a closer look at what their role entails.

Key Responsibilities

• Study Earth's composition and processes to support effective resource management.
• Leverage geological history to shape strategies for environmental preservation.
• Collect and analyze soil, rock, and water samples in laboratory settings.
• Investigate climate change impacts and contribute to environmental protection research.
• Create geological maps, identify natural resources like minerals, oil, and water, and assess environmental risks.

6. Environmental Manager / Sustainability Program Manager

Environmental Managers and Sustainability Program Managers play a crucial role in steering companies toward sustainability. They design and implement programs that minimize environmental impact while ensuring compliance with regulations. This position blends strategic planning with practical execution, making it a great fit for those looking to drive real change within organizations. It also serves as a stepping stone to more specialized roles in the environmental sector.

Key Responsibilities

These professionals are tasked with creating and managing sustainability initiatives, conducting audits, and promoting eco-friendly practices across various departments. Their primary responsibilities include:

• Identifying ways to reduce waste, cut emissions, and improve resource efficiency.
• Preparing reports for regulatory bodies like the EPA and maintaining documentation to ensure compliance.
• Keeping up with changes in environmental laws to help companies stay ahead of regulatory requirements.
• Developing sustainability strategies aligned with corporate objectives, such as reducing carbon footprints, increasing recycling efforts, and conserving resources.
• Leading training programs to raise environmental awareness among employees and engage stakeholders in sustainability goals.

Required Qualifications

To qualify for this role, candidates usually need a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, environmental science, sustainability, or a related discipline, along with 2–4 years of experience in environmental or sustainability-focused roles. Strong project management and communication skills are vital, as the job involves working closely with executives, employees, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders. Familiarity with environmental management systems, sustainability reporting, and data analysis is also important. While certifications aren’t always necessary for entry-level positions, many professionals pursue them later to highlight their expertise.

Salary Range

In the United States, Environmental Managers and Sustainability Program Managers can expect salaries ranging from $67,747 to $102,000, as of March 2025. Glassdoor reports an average salary of $102,000, Indeed lists $94,650, and Zippia indicates $67,747. Compensation varies significantly by location, with states like California, Arizona, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas offering some of the highest pay for these roles.

Other factors, including education, years of experience, job responsibilities, performance, and tenure, also influence salary levels.

Job Growth Potential

The demand for Environmental Managers and Sustainability Program Managers is on the rise, with job growth projected at 6% from 2022 to 2032 - a rate faster than the average for most professions. As companies across various industries ramp up their sustainability efforts to meet environmental challenges and comply with regulations, the need for skilled professionals in this field will continue to grow. This makes it a promising career choice for individuals committed to environmental stewardship.

7. Climate Change Analyst

As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, the role of Climate Change Analysts has become increasingly vital. These professionals analyze climate data and models to predict future scenarios and craft strategies to address challenges like rising sea levels and food security concerns. Their work plays a critical role in environmental protection while offering a chance to earn a competitive salary.

Key Responsibilities

Climate Change Analysts blend research, data analysis, and policy development to address environmental challenges. They study climate data to identify trends and assess impacts on ecosystems and communities. Their findings guide decisions on adapting to and mitigating climate-related issues. Analysts also help develop strategies to meet greenhouse gas reduction targets and evaluate the success of existing policies. Their expertise often extends to tackling complex issues such as improving coastal defenses and ensuring food security.

These tasks require a mix of technical and analytical skills, making this role both challenging and impactful.

Required Qualifications

A strong educational background is essential for this role. Most positions require a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field, such as meteorology, ecology, or statistics. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree. Beyond formal education, practical experience in data collection, research, and report writing is highly valued. Analysts need strong analytical skills to interpret statistical models and effective communication abilities to present their findings and policy recommendations. Internships or volunteer work in related fields can also provide valuable hands-on experience and enhance job market competitiveness.

Salary Range

Climate Change Analysts earn salaries that reflect the specialized nature of their work. In the U.S., salaries typically range from $77,387 to $109,000, according to March 2025 data from Glassdoor, Indeed, and Zippia. For instance, Glassdoor cites a high of $109,000, Zippia reports $77,387, and Salary.com lists $78,260. For comparison, Environmental Scientists and Specialists, a broader job category, had a median annual wage of $80,060 in May 2024. Within this group, the lowest 10% earned less than $50,130, while the top 10% earned over $134,830. Geographic factors also influence salaries, with states like California, New York, and Massachusetts offering higher pay. Federal government roles are particularly lucrative, with a median annual wage of $113,980 as of May 2024.

Job Growth Potential

The demand for Climate Change Analysts is on the rise. Job growth is projected at 5% from 2022 to 2032, outpacing the average for all occupations. As climate change continues to affect communities worldwide, the need for experts who can analyze trends, predict future conditions, and develop effective solutions is expected to grow steadily. This makes it an exciting and meaningful career path for those passionate about addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time.

8. Get Outdoor Jobs (Job Board)

Finding quality opportunities is essential for building a successful career in environmental fields. Get Outdoor Jobs simplifies this process by bringing together thousands of environmental and outdoor positions across the U.S. in one place. Instead of scouring multiple websites, this platform saves time by curating roles that align with the high-paying opportunities mentioned earlier.

The job board covers a wide range of positions, including Environmental Lawyers, Engineers, and Analysts. It also features roles like Conservation Scientists, Solar Energy Consultants, Environmental Health Officers, and Sustainable Supply Chain Managers, catering to diverse career interests within the environmental sector.

Key Features for Environmental Job Seekers

This platform is designed to make your job search as efficient as possible. It updates daily, ensuring you have access to the latest opportunities. With advanced search filters, you can refine your results by location, salary range, job type, and experience level.

Whether you prefer remote, hybrid, or on-site roles, the platform accommodates various work preferences. This flexibility is particularly valuable for those balancing fieldwork with remote tasks. You can also set up email alerts tailored to your criteria, so you're notified when new positions matching your interests become available.

Some of the most lucrative markets to focus on include California, Texas, and the District of Columbia. For example, Houston offers strong demand for environmental engineers and specialists, with many roles paying upwards of $80,000 annually due to the region's efforts to incorporate green initiatives into the oil and gas industry.

Salary Transparency and Career Planning

The platform’s salary filters allow you to focus on roles ranging from $80,000 to $160,000 or more. It also provides insights into career progression, helping you plan your trajectory. For instance, you might start as an Environmental Scientist earning between $60,208 and $85,000, advance to an Environmental Manager with a salary of $67,747 to $102,000, and eventually reach a Sustainability Director role earning $120,000 to $180,000. These tools help you identify the skills and experience needed to move forward in your career.

Access Options

The platform offers a free plan, which allows access to the 10 most recent job listings. For those seeking more, a premium plan unlocks unlimited access, advanced filters, daily updates, and customized email alerts.

Beyond Job Listings

Get Outdoor Jobs goes beyond just listing positions. It provides career development resources, including salary data and compensation benchmarks, helping you understand market rates based on your experience and location. These tools save time and energy, enabling you to craft strong applications that stand out.

For those seeking employers that share their values, specialized environmental job boards are ideal. Companies using these platforms are genuinely committed to sustainability and environmental impact, often leading to better alignment with employee values and higher job satisfaction.

Conclusion

Careers in the environmental sector uniquely combine financial stability with the opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s Environmental Lawyers with their high earning potential or Energy Managers steering corporate sustainability efforts, these roles prove that you don’t have to choose between impact and income.

Each position in this field brings together technical skills and the drive to address environmental challenges. Environmental Engineers focus on creating systems that protect public health, Geoscientists help manage natural resources, and Climate Change Analysts turn complex data into actionable solutions. The diversity of these opportunities ensures there’s a path for various interests and expertise.

What makes these careers even more appealing is their strong growth potential. The shift toward renewable energy, stricter environmental regulations, and increasing corporate focus on sustainability are fueling demand for skilled professionals. Companies are searching for individuals who can bridge the gap between environmental science and business strategy - skills that not only enhance job security but also open doors to competitive salaries.

If you’re drawn to influencing policy and navigating legal systems, environmental law could be your path. For those who enjoy solving practical challenges, roles in engineering or energy management might be a better fit. Meanwhile, analytical thinkers might excel as Climate Change Analysts or Geoscientists. To stand out, it’s important to align your qualifications with the specific demands of these roles. Leveraging job platforms that specialize in environmental positions can help you connect with employers who prioritize sustainability and innovation.

The environmental field is in urgent need of talented professionals, whether you’re just starting out or considering a career change. These jobs not only offer competitive compensation but also allow you to contribute to a sustainable future. By identifying the skills you need, gaining relevant experience, and targeting the right opportunities, you can position yourself for success in this rewarding and impactful sector.

FAQs

What education and skills do you need for a high-paying job in the environmental field?

Most well-paying careers in environmental fields typically require a bachelor's degree in areas such as environmental science, biology, geology, or other related natural sciences. For more advanced positions, a master's degree or specific certifications might be necessary, depending on the job's requirements.

To excel in these roles, you'll need a mix of key skills. Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities are essential, along with proficiency in tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Solid communication skills are equally important, as many positions involve teamwork or presenting research and findings to stakeholders. Aligning your education and skillset with the role you're aiming for can make a huge difference in landing the job you want.

What is the job outlook for environmental careers across different regions in the United States?

The future looks bright for careers focused on the environment in the U.S., with many industries tied to sustainability showing consistent growth. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs like wind turbine technicians and solar photovoltaic installers rank among the fastest-growing professions across the country. Even better, many of these roles come with salaries that exceed the national median.

Regional demand for these positions can differ significantly. Cities such as San Francisco, Houston, and New York City are hotspots for environmental jobs, thanks to their mix of thriving local industries, ambitious sustainability programs, and dense populations that drive the need for greener solutions.

How can I transition into a high-paying environmental career if I’m coming from a different industry?

Transitioning into a well-paying career in environmental fields is entirely possible with the right strategy. Roles like Environmental Scientist or Environmental Engineer often require a bachelor’s degree in areas such as natural sciences or engineering. If your background doesn’t align with these fields, pursuing further education or obtaining certifications can help you gain the skills needed to make the switch.

Practical experience is another key factor. Internships, volunteering, or freelance work on environmental projects can provide hands-on knowledge and help build your resume. Networking with industry professionals and keeping up with the latest trends can also lead to valuable opportunities. For instance, Environmental Engineers have a median annual salary of approximately $96,530, while Environmental Scientists earn around $80,060, according to recent data. With persistence and the right qualifications, you can carve out a path in this meaningful and financially rewarding industry.