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Environmental engineer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected environmental engineer job growth rate is 4% from 2018-2028.
About 1,800 new jobs for environmental engineers are projected over the next decade.
Environmental engineer salaries have increased 9% for environmental engineers in the last 5 years.
There are over 48,877 environmental engineers currently employed in the United States.
There are 24,787 active environmental engineer job openings in the US.
The average environmental engineer salary is $75,718.
Year![]() ![]() | # Of Jobs![]() ![]() | % Of Population![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|
2021 | 48,877 | 0.01% |
2020 | 54,970 | 0.02% |
2019 | 56,037 | 0.02% |
2018 | 54,524 | 0.02% |
2017 | 54,596 | 0.02% |
Year![]() ![]() | Avg. Salary![]() ![]() | Hourly Rate![]() ![]() | % Change![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|---|
2025 | $75,718 | $36.40 | +3.7% |
2024 | $73,039 | $35.11 | +1.4% |
2023 | $72,019 | $34.62 | +0.9% |
2022 | $71,345 | $34.30 | +2.2% |
2021 | $69,775 | $33.55 | +0.4% |
Rank![]() ![]() | State![]() ![]() | Population![]() ![]() | # of Jobs![]() ![]() | Employment/ 1000ppl ![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 186 | 27% |
2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 968 | 11% |
3 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 86 | 11% |
4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 75 | 10% |
5 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 642 | 9% |
6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 585 | 9% |
7 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 499 | 8% |
8 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 108 | 8% |
9 | Delaware | 961,939 | 80 | 8% |
10 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 398 | 7% |
11 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 380 | 7% |
12 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 275 | 7% |
13 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 234 | 7% |
14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 142 | 7% |
15 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 38 | 7% |
16 | California | 39,536,653 | 2,393 | 6% |
17 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 196 | 6% |
18 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 85 | 6% |
19 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 58 | 6% |
20 | Vermont | 623,657 | 39 | 6% |
Rank![]() ![]() | City![]() ![]() | # of Jobs![]() ![]() | Employment/ 1000ppl ![]() ![]() | Avg. Salary![]() ![]() |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Edison | 5 | 5% | $69,442 |
2 | Denver | 14 | 2% | $59,554 |
3 | Sacramento | 9 | 2% | $89,780 |
4 | Urban Honolulu | 7 | 2% | $79,021 |
5 | Wichita | 6 | 2% | $59,603 |
6 | Phoenix | 10 | 1% | $75,555 |
7 | Boston | 9 | 1% | $66,489 |
8 | Detroit | 8 | 1% | $62,417 |
9 | Indianapolis | 8 | 1% | $52,723 |
10 | Jacksonville | 8 | 1% | $68,276 |
11 | San Diego | 8 | 1% | $86,171 |
12 | Baltimore | 5 | 1% | $75,606 |
13 | Long Beach | 5 | 1% | $86,083 |
14 | San Francisco | 5 | 1% | $90,583 |
15 | New York | 14 | 0% | $69,175 |
16 | Chicago | 11 | 0% | $58,338 |
17 | Los Angeles | 11 | 0% | $86,132 |
18 | Houston | 8 | 0% | $87,836 |
19 | Dallas | 5 | 0% | $84,083 |
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
University of Rhode Island
University of Houston
Bellarmine University
Lawrence University
American University
University of New Hampshire
Washington State University
New Mexico State University
Utah State University
Kent State University
University of South Carolina - Columbia
Drake University
Gonzaga University
Gannon University
Virginia Charter PhD, PE, FSFPE: Our degree allows students to obtain their GSP as well as sit for a number of certification exams, like the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam. Having these credentials may set them apart from others as well as boost their salary potential from the start.
Virginia Charter PhD, PE, FSFPE: Employers are looking for a well-rounded engineer or specialist. They want to see individuals that have the technical area knowledge and also the capability to communicate, work on a team, problem solve, and project manage.
Virginia Charter PhD, PE, FSFPE: The best advice I can give to new graduates is to always be willing to learn. This field is changing constantly with new challenges to protect people, property and the environment. A willingness to learn and soak up everything you can when starting out will set you on a path to success.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Natural Resources Conservation And Research
Stentor Danielson: Remember that if a company is advertising a job, that means they need you (and your skills and energy and talents) as much as you need them, so don't be afraid to ask for what you're worth. Talk to other people in similar roles (at your company and elsewhere) to make sure you're not getting a raw deal.
Stentor Danielson: Technical skills (e.g. GIS) are always important, but I think students often overlook the importance of social skills – joining or leading a team, managing a project, communicating information effectively, community outreach, respecting diversity among coworkers and clients (I'm a big advocate of learning a second language). Good social skills will make your work more effective and open up new opportunities.
Stentor Danielson: Environmental jobs can be some of the most important and rewarding ones out there as our society goes through this crucial moment of transition to a more sustainable future. We need people with all different skill sets and interests to make it happen.
University of Rhode Island
Environmental/Natural Resources Management And Policy
Simona Trandafir: I recommend focusing on sectors and roles where the demand for environmental expertise is growing, such as sustainable energy, environmental consulting, and governmental agencies. Gaining certifications in various fields such as environmental impact assessment, energy management and sustainability reporting can be beneficial. Also, consider roles that involve economic analysis of environmental policies or management of natural resources, as these tend to offer higher compensation due to their specialized nature. Building a strong professional network and pursuing opportunities in larger, economically diverse cities or regions can also lead to higher salary prospects.
Simona Trandafir: In the next few years, there may be a growing emphasis on skills related to data analysis and modeling due to the increasing availability of environmental data. Proficiency in tools for spatial analysis and environmental simulation software will be highly desirable. Additionally, skills in sustainability reporting and green finance will become more prevalent as businesses and governments will focus more on sustainable practices and investments. Also, effective communication skills, particularly in translating complex ecological and economic data to various stakeholders, will remain desirable.
Simona Trandafir: I would advise graduates to leverage the interdisciplinary nature of their studies. Utilize your understanding of both economic theory and environmental science to address complex sustainability issues. It's important to stay informed about current and emerging environmental policies and to develop an adaptive mindset to respond effectively to the dynamic nature of global environmental challenges. Engaging in continuous professional development and participating in industry conferences can also greatly benefit their career growth and networking opportunities.
Scott Rowland: If I knew that... I think collecting images with drones and processing drone data (including Lidar) will become more important. In Hawai‘i, knowledge of hydrology and coastal processes will /remain/ important.
Scott Rowland: Have an idea of what starting salaries are in your area. Don't over-sell yourself. Be realistic about what skills you have and about how long you are willing to commit to the company.
Scott Rowland: (in no particular order) Be willing to learn new skills on the job, and make sure to /not /say you can do something that you actually cannot do. Be willing to take jobs that involve travel or working overtime. Turn reports in on time, better yet before on time. If you know/see that a colleague is having trouble with a task, ask if they would like a hand and if they say no, leave it at that. Listen more than you speak. Get to work (including job sites) on time with all the proper tools, supplies, and PPE. /Wear/ your PPE, even if others aren't.
Dr. Mim Rahimi Ph.D.: To maximize your salary potential, focus on developing specialized skills that are in high demand but low supply within the field, such as expertise in renewable energy systems or advanced waste treatment technologies. Gaining certifications relevant to these areas can also be beneficial. Furthermore, demonstrating your impact through quantifiable achievements and taking initiative in key projects can position you for promotions and higher salary opportunities.
Dr. Mim Rahimi Ph.D.: As you progress with your career in environmental engineering, my primary advice is to embrace continuous learning and adaptability. The field is dynamic, with regulations and technologies evolving rapidly. Stay informed about industry trends, engage in professional development opportunities, and cultivate a network of peers and mentors. This proactive approach enriches your understanding and enhances your ability to contribute effectively to your workplace and community.
Dr. Mim Rahimi Ph.D.: In the next 3-5 years, skills in data analysis and technological proficiency, particularly in areas like GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and environmental modeling software, will become important. Additionally, soft skills such as effective communication and project management will be essential as projects often involve multidisciplinary teams and require the ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively.
Martha Carlson Mazur PhD: Be a contributing member of the communities you occupy. Forming authentic relationships builds the network that will lead to opportunities for advancement.
Martha Carlson Mazur PhD: The art of paying attention is the top emerging skill that students need to acquire before entering the workforce in Environmental Science. We have so many distractions vying for our attention in today’s high-tech world that we need to be mindful of where we choose to direct our thoughts to optimize our productivity. Likewise, paying attention to changes in the environment is of utmost importance in the work that we do, and paying attention to our own needs will keep us going in the hard but rewarding work of changing the world.
Martha Carlson Mazur PhD: Be clear to yourself on what you value and how you want to use your unique skills and knowledge to change your piece of the world. Then, connect with people to find shared values and build relationships to enact your vision while being open to opportunities you might not have considered.
Marcia Bjornerud: Be open to taking short-term jobs for a few years to get a sense of the range of career opportunities in environmental sciences and which match your skills and temperament best. Think creatively about how your interdisciplinary training in environmental sciences can be applied even in fields that are not obviously 'environmental' - e.g. city/regional government, transportation, healthcare, etc. All human activities are embedded within and dependent on the natural environment. Also, the habit of 'systems thinking' that is central to environmental science can be applied to complex human systems.
Marcia Bjornerud: Be a well-rounded scientist, with strong foundations in all the natural and physical sciences. Emphasize the conceptual and technical skills you have gained as a student -- not just the courses you have taken – on your resume. Find a mentor through alumni networks who can help provide an on-ramp into professional life.
Marcia Bjornerud: Capacity to apply concepts from chemistry, biology and geosciences to 'wicked' (complex, entangled) environmental problems. Familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software. Knowledge of statistical methods for analyzing large data sets. Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to the public.
American University
Natural Resources Conservation And Research
Dr. Karen Knee (she/her): Honestly, I don't think most people get into Environmental Science with the goal of maximizing their salary potential. Nor do I think this field is the best choice if that's your top concern. I think it's important to take stock of your financial goals (for example, saving for retirement, buying a house, being able to travel), put together a realistic budget (perhaps with the help of a financial advisor), and see what income you need. Then you can look for jobs in that range. It's important to realize that budgeting, saving, investing and avoiding needless spending are just as important to financial health as maximizing your salary.
Dr. Karen Knee (she/her): Think about your strengths, interests, and goals, and then evaluate the options available to you. No job is going to be perfect, especially right out of college. You want something that will meet your financial needs and provide you with an opportunity to grow and gain experience so you can be competitive for other opportunities down the line that may be an even better fit.
Dr. Karen Knee (she/her): Computer skills (coding, data science, software design) as well as very human skills that can't be replicated by AI.
Dr. James Malley Jr: As you start your Environmental Engineering career, I suggest you go into the office every day, go in early and stay late, talk with, and learn from the senior members of your firm. In addition, work hard on improving what we like to call “the soft skills” such as being a good listener and clearly communicating with your co-workers, supervisors, and clients. Work on your writing skills so that the improve and also align with how your firm typically writes the work products asked of you.
Dr. James Malley Jr: Some of this is market driven by the type of employer (public versus private), the location of the job (major metropolitan area versus a more rural or smaller city), etc. In the foreseeable future due to Environmental Engineering becoming popular around 1970 there are many people approaching retirement age (“the silver tsunami”) so jobs will likely be plentiful which will help. So, to maximize starting salaries you will want to do your homework and study the different employers, regions, etc. to see what salary ranges are realistic. Then pursue the opportunities that have the higher starting salaries if that is your priority (clearly an Environmental Engineer working for a major industry such as gas and oil will have a higher starting salary offer than one working for municipal governments) and also carefully interview the firms when they invite you to interview to find out how they handle things like overtime, bonuses, salary review frequency, etc.
Dr. James Malley Jr: There is general agreement that “Big Data” will continue to be a major emphasis so learning the use of python or similar will be important. No doubt AI/ML will impact the Environmental Engineering field so becoming more familiar with AI/ML, specifically how it is used as well as recognizing when it is being used effectively and when it is being used incorrectly or producing results that are unrealistic and impractical. As your career advances in the next 3-5 years you will also find the soft skills already mentioned as well as developing better management and leadership skills will be important because surely by year 5 others will be working for you and you will be managing them.
Holly Henning: In the next 3-5 years, more students will be involved in quantifying the environmental impacts of agricultural practices in response to new regulations and ongoing producer and consumer interest in environmental practices. Students will continue to need strong communication skills to explain those practices to various stakeholders and engage in innovative partnerships with suppliers, by region and industry.
Holly Henning: My advice to students is keep a beginners' mind as they learn their particular job. I always encourage students to seek out a mentor in their position and to ask questions and say yes when they are asked to volunteer for temporary roles that might help them learn more about their employer and the career paths available to them. I also encourage them to connect to other WSU graduates as Cougs love to help other Cougs.
Holly Henning: To maximize salary potential, an employee needs to first demonstrate a strong work ethic, a desire to learn and the ability to work on diverse teams. Employees that demonstrate their ability to contribute their unique expertise to a multi-disciplinary team are more likely to be involved with other learning opportunities. We encourage employees to continue their education by being involved in associations, working with our extension and research programs and field days and exploring ways to build their network and opportunities. In some careers, the ability to proactively represent an employer on social media and help others to see how great it is to work for their company can help them into higher paying positions.
New Mexico State University
Applied Horticulture And Horticultural Business Services
Geno Picchioni: BE TRAINABLE, OPEN-MINDED, AND APPROACHABLE. REMEMBER WHAT GOT YOU HERE: HARD WORK, PERSEVERANCE, DEDICATION, COLLEGIALITY. HONOR YOUR SUPPORT FAMILY.
Geno Picchioni: DO NOW WAIT FOR GRADUATION. BUILD AN EFFECTIVE RESUME WITH TANGIBLE FEATURES AND EXAMPLES, NOT MERELY LISTS. INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: 1) COMMUNICATION, TECHNICAL, AND PEOPLE SKILLS; 2) JOB EXPERIENCE; 3) CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY; AND 4) DISTINCTION AND RECOGNITION.
Geno Picchioni: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE. CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES. COMMUNITY BUILDING.
Daniella Hirschfeld PhD: People like being environmental designers because they can see the fruits of their work in real world settings. Their visions can come to life and change places in positive ways. On the other hand there are times that the environmental aspect of a design can be overlooked and that can lead to frustrations.
Daniella Hirschfeld PhD: Humanity today faces tremendous environmental challenges - chemicals in our water and air are causing major health problems, climate change is leading to increased disaster events, and biodiversity loss is at an all time high. Being an environmental designer allows people to address these challenges head on. It also gives people a chance to make other people's lives more livable, healthier, and happier.
Daniella Hirschfeld PhD: Environmental designers work at the intersection of natural processes and human systems. One key part of that job is to bring natural systems into cities and neighborhoods. For example, an environmental designer would be the on in charge of street trees for a city. Another key part of environmental design is making sure that natural processes such as flooding does not negatively impact people. This involves understanding how a river flows and what areas are dangerous for development. Enviornmental designers also need to ensure that when people build cities, homes, or infrastructure they do not negatively impact natural areas. This often involves designing stormwater infrastructure. Environmental design is a highly interdisciplinary area of work and requires collaboration with many other professionals. Environmental designers will often work with urban planners, architects, landscape architects, transportation planners, civil engineers, etc. Ultimately they stive to design and implements solutions that enhance the quality of a space for people while having minimal impacts on ecosystems.
Dr. Christopher Post PhD: Start local and get an internship while an undergraduate. Any position with the federal lands agencies (parks, forests, BLM, etc.) are tough to get and you have to work your way in to that federal system. Start local with regional/county/city parks and forests and work up to the federal level. Also keep that balance between the science (the biology and earth science) and the more social science/humanities (ethics, economics, communications) material you’ve learned as undergraduate. These jobs are all about communicating complex scientific/environmental issues with the general public so that context is very important. You have to be nimble and know both areas (the science and the social science) and their overlap.
Dr. Christopher Post PhD: Geographic Information Science—the ability to take field data and make it visual with maps so that you and others can witness and analyze spatial relations is the most important skill set in environmental careers right now and will continue as such. Everything in nature moves—albeit sometimes slowly—and understanding those interactions is key to unfolding humanity’s impacts on the environment, and vice versa.
Dr. Christopher Post PhD: Having field and lab experience as an undergraduate—showing you can put theory to practice via internships or other undergraduate research opportunities should best position a student for maximizing that starting salary.
University of South Carolina - Columbia
Natural Resources Conservation And Research
Bryan Gentry: We've found we get better responses over email than the phone because it gives you some time to think about it.
Bryan Gentry: For students majoring in environmental science-related areas, my colleague Bryan Gentry can possibly connect you with someone in USC’s College of Arts and Sciences.
Bryan Gentry: My colleague Bryan Gentry can possibly connect you with someone in USC’s College of Arts and Sciences.
Drake University
Natural Resources Conservation And Research
Keith Summerville: 1. To anyone getting a start in this field- build your professional network as early as possible- attend volunteer work days, try going to low cost local conferences or meetings (local Audubon Societies, Iowa Prairie Network, Society for Ecological Restoration Midwest Chapter, Ducks Unlimited). The more people in the field you know, the more opportunities you will be exposed to.
Gonzaga University
Natural Resources Conservation And Research
Dr. Greg Gordon Professor/Chair: We find that graphical information systems (GIS) skills are in high demand. Soft skills such as ability to work as a team, develop work plans, collaborate and communicate with diverse stakeholders, communicate technical and scientific information, are, and will be very important in the near and long term future.
Gannon University
Natural Resources Conservation And Research
Liu Cao Ph.D.: For graduates in environmental science embarking on their careers, it's essential to embrace a multidisciplinary approach and remain adaptable to the evolving landscape of environmental challenges. Prioritize gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work to apply your theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, enhancing your employability. Networking is also key; engage with professionals in your field through industry conferences, workshops, and professional associations to expand your opportunities and gain insights into emerging trends. Continuously refine your skills, particularly in data analysis, GIS, and sustainability practices, and consider further education or certifications to specialize in high-demand areas. Finally, stay informed about global environmental issues and technological advancements, as this will enable you to contribute innovatively to your field.
Liu Cao Ph.D.: In the evolving landscape of environmental science, key skills poised to gain prominence over the next 3-5 years, in my opinion, include data analysis and environmental modeling, essential for interpreting complex datasets and predicting trends. Proficiency in GIS and remote sensing will become increasingly vital for monitoring environmental changes and managing resources efficiently. Additionally, a deep understanding of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies will be crucial as professionals seek to address global warming's pressing challenges. These skills, combined with interdisciplinary collaboration and effective communication, will equip environmental scientists to tackle the multifaceted issues facing our planet.
Aaron Haines Ph.D., Certified Wildlife Biologist ®: Having more technical skill sets can help you get entry level positions that can lead to higher pay positions. These include the ability to extract DNA from biological samples and understand the process of DNA sequencing, be familiar with geographical information systems (GIS) software such as ArcPro, ArcGIS, QGIS, be familiar with programming language such as Phyton and R statical programming, and government policies that impact your field of study.
Be a member of a professional organization and attend their conferences. This will allow you the opportunity to learn from others, network, and meet potential future employers.
Aaron Haines Ph.D., Certified Wildlife Biologist ®: Learn to be a team player and be reliable enough to complete tasks by yourself. Make sure your online presence is one of a professional in your field. Potential employers will search you out online. Have these searches lead to the professional you. The ecology and environmental biology fields are competitive. As a growing professional in these fields, you will begin with lower salaries compared to biology majors in other fields such as the medical, pharmaceutical, and research lab professions. Most government organizations that deal with ecology-based issues, such as natural resources or environmental monitoring, have lower budgets compared to other government departments. Also, non-government organizations that work in these fields are mainly non-profit. The best way to get into these competitive fields is via internships and temporary positions. Experience is key. Temporary positions are low pay, but they provide the building blocks of experience to get you more permanent and better pay positions or entry into graduate school with an assistantship. Graduate assistantships provide opportunities for graduate students to get paid, have benefits, and have tuition covered. That is a good deal. Look for jobs in places you would never think to look. Examples of unique employers in these fields include private consulting organizations, research labs doing environmental work, and Department of Defense.
Aaron Haines Ph.D., Certified Wildlife Biologist ®: The current most prevalent skill sets and qualifications for students interested in the ecology and environmental fields include good communication through speaking and writing. It is important to be able to communicate as an effective team member, communicate with private landowners, volunteers, and to the public for education purposes. Writing skills will be important for correctly recording data, completing certifications, helping to write grants (and other fundraising efforts) and completing reports.
Be in good physical condition to complete fieldwork and gather data. Sometimes you will be deep in the field and off-trail. The better shape you are in, the better your ability to deal with hot, cold, or humid weather conditions and bothersome insects. Physical exhaustion leads to increased errors in the field.
When in the field, certain professions prefer combinations of the following skills: Use of GPS units, ability to drive 4-wheel drive vehicles and/or ATVs, boating experience, chainsaw, herbicide and pesticide application, identification of flora and fauna, ability access soil and water quality, and prescribed fire experience.
Have standard IT skills to gather data via phone or tablet and be familiar with standard programs such as WORD, EXCEL, and ACCESS.
Future skills will include the ability to gather data remotely from the field (e.g., Lidar spatial data, acoustic recordings, remote cameras, drone data, eDNA) and onto the Could. It will also be beneficial to speak more than one language and be able to develop a strong web presence for your project and organization.
Carol Boggs PhD: Environmental engineers may be involved in designing or evaluating waste water systems. These can include urban waste water treatment systems, or managing run-off, flooding, coastal sea water incursions, etc. Environmental engineers may also work on landscape restoration projects, designing plans to adjust water flow through an ecosystem. Daily work may include both on-site field evaluations and office work.
Carol Boggs PhD: Human impacts on the environment are continuing to increase. The demand for professionals to mitigate the effects of climate change and land use impacts will continue to increase in response.
Carol Boggs PhD: I actually don't know! But I would guess: People like being able to make a difference and to be able to see the impact of their work on improving ecosystems. People dislike paperwork, which is associated with nearly any job.
Asad Salem Ph.D: In the contemporary engineering sphere, commanding expertise in environmental conservation and global warming mitigation technologies is indispensable. This proficiency spans across clean and low carbon footprint solutions, renewable energy sources, energy storage, new materials, health considerations, water resource management, transportation systems, and innovative manufacturing processes. Simultaneously, a robust mastery of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity is gaining importance. Furthermore, a profound comprehension of sustainable practices and collaborative technologies is anticipated to assume an increasingly pivotal role in the continually evolving field of engineering.