We used the latest data and insights to identify the Highest Paying Environmental Jobs so that you can learn and earn more.
Whether you want to work outdoors or in an office, there is an environmental career for you. Identifying a career path that appeals to your specific skills, talents, and desires is the hardest part. But once you know what you want to do, go out and do it.
We compiled this article using data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and other top sources.
Here are the top 10 environmental jobs you should consider.
Here is a video summary based on this article
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Table of Contents
#10. Environmental Conservation Scientist
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $41,000 per year
- High Range: $78,000 per year
- Median Pay: $53,452 per year
What do they do?
Environmental conservation scientists are responsible for studying ecosystems to make informed decisions about how to protect them. They use their knowledge of ecology, biology, and botany to study how humans affect the environment.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
You need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or biology. But most employers will likely go for candidates with a master’s degree for advanced roles. Earning a Ph.D. can give you more chances of bagging high-paying jobs.
You should also possess a strong understanding of mathematics and statistics as a prerequisite to analyzing data.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Conservation scientists can work in government agencies like the US Fish and Wildlife Service. They can also find work in nonprofit organizations. Research institutions also hire these scientists.
What’s the best way to get this job?
Getting this job can be tricky because it is highly competitive. Many people who want to work as environmental conservation scientists do not meet all of the requirements needed for the job. So make sure that you have all of your ducks in a row before applying.
What’s it like to be an environmental conservation scientist?
#9. Climbing Arborist
How much do they get paid?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $32,000 per year
- High Range: $87,000 per year
- Median Pay: $ 55,808 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Climbing arborists are specialists in the maintenance, care, and treatment of trees. These professionals oversee the health of trees by performing tasks like:
- Pruning branches.
- Fertilizing trees.
- Â Removing deadwood.
They also plant new trees and transplant the existing ones.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
To be a climbing arborist, you must have a degree or diploma in horticulture, forestry, or agronomy. You must also have the correct expertise with chainsaws and other power tools. Knowing how to use safety equipment such as harnesses is a plus for anyone in this field.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Climbing arborists work for tree companies and other landscaping companies.
What’s the best way to get this job?
If you’re interested in becoming a climbing arborist, follow these two steps to get started:
- Join a college with good programs for arboriculture.
- Once you’ve graduated, check with your network to get opportunities for people with your expertise.
What’s it like to be a climbing arborist?
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#8. Soil and Plant Scientist
How much do they get paid?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $20,000 per year
- High Range: $124,500Â per year
- Median Pay: $56,954 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Soil and plant scientists study the biology of soil and plants. These scientists have the exciting job of looking at how plants grow in different soils. They also examine how different soils affect plant growth.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
A soil and plant scientist should have a bachelor’s degree in biology or equivalent experience. The knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics, and other sciences is important in this field.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
They can be employed by state or federal agencies, universities, or private companies. Soil and plant scientists may also work in agricultural research centers.
What’s the best way to get this job?
You can become a soil and plant scientist by getting a soil science or botany degree. Afterwhich, you may get some experience working for a state or federal agency researching plants and soil.
What’s it like to be a soil scientist?
#7. Urban Planners
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $44,000 per year
- High Range: $88,000 per year
- Median Pay: $58,927 per year
What do they do?
Urban planners are the people who make sure that cities and towns grow sustainably. They:Â
- Study how people live and work together.
- Identify needs.
- Make recommendations to improve quality of life.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
These planners need degrees in urban planning or related subjects like public policy or environmental science. You should also have:
- Creativity.
- Strong communication skills.
- Problem-solving skills.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Urban planners can work for:
- Local governments.
- Nonprofit organizations.
- Urban development company.
- Private developers.
What’s the best way to get this job?
The fastest way to get this job is by going to school for an urban planning degree. Then apply for internships at local governments or nonprofits after graduation.
What’s it like to be an urban planner?
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#6. Environmental Engineer
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $52,000 per year
- High Range: $101,000 per year
- Median Pay: $67,000 per year
What do they do?
Environmental engineers are a unique breed. They’re the only ones who can simultaneously save the world and make it more beautiful.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Environmental engineers typically have undergraduate degrees in environmental engineering or another related field. You can also get into this field by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree in environmental science. Then take additional postgraduate courses.
You need excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work well with other people to attract high-paying jobs.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
They work for:
- Chemical manufacturing companies.
- Local governments.
- Think Tanks such as World Resources Institute.
- Private businesses.
- Government agencies.
- Non-profit organizations.
- Universities and learning institutions.
What’s the best way to get this job?
Once you’ve earned your degree from an accredited university, start looking for internships or entry-level positions in this field.
Should you become an environmental engineer?
#5. Agriculture Engineer
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Salary com
- Low Range: $44,824 per year
- High Range: $105,406 per year
- Median Pay: $72,478 per year
What do they do?
Agricultural engineers design, develop and manage agricultural production systems. They work in fields such as:
- Soil science.
- Crop physiology.
- Irrigation engineering.
- Livestock management.
- Power equipment design.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Agricultural engineers have bachelor’s degrees in agricultural engineering from an accredited program. Also important is your experience in agriculture and knowledge of how to use technology to improve crops or processes.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Agricultural engineers may work for private companies and consult with farmers on best practices for growing crops or raising livestock. They also might work for government agencies that regulate farming practices or environmental policy.
What’s the best way to get this job?
You can get an agricultural engineer job through internships or apprenticeships at large companies. These companies have strong connections with local universities. They’re able to hire recent graduates directly into full-time positions every year.
Should you become an agriculture engineer?
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#4. Environmental Health Officer
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $26,000 per year
- High Range: $222,000 per year
- Median Pay: $75,393 per year
What do they do?
Environmental health officers (EHO) are the people who make sure that your water is clean and your food is safe to eat. They make sure that the air you breathe is clean, too. These health officers:
- Enforce environmental regulations.
- Monitor pollution levels.
- Inspect sites where hazardous materials may be used or stored.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Environmental health officers have degrees in environmental science or public health. This helps them understand how environmental factors affect human health.
Employers prefer candidates with strong data interpretation skills, among other basic skills.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Environmental health officers work for:Â
- Local government agencies.
- Private companies.
- Non-governmental organizations.Â
What’s the best way to get this job?
You can become an environmental health officer by getting an undergraduate degree in environmental science or public health from an accredited university. Then complete an internship with an environmental agency before applying for jobs.
What’s it like to be an environmental health officer?
#3. Energy Managers
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $62,000 per year
- High Range: $129,000 per year
- Median Pay: $88,620 per year
What do they do?
Energy managers are the people who make sure that your power keeps running, no matter what. They’re also the ones who keep your family safe and healthy by ensuring that there’s enough power for you.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Energy managers may have college degrees in electrical engineering or mechanical engineering. Employers will go for candidates with the following abilities:
- Understanding how electricity works.
- Figure out how much energy an appliance uses (or will use).
- Knowing how to fix things when they break.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Energy managers work for:
- Learning institutions.
- Hospitals.
- Factories.Â
- Private consulting firms.
What’s the best way to get this job?
The fastest way to become an energy Manager is through education. You should get an engineering degree at a university first. Then seek out internships before applying for jobs.
Who is a certified energy manager?
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#2. Landscape Architect
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Salary.com
- Low Range: $64,415 per year
- High Range: $121,919 per year
- Median Pay: $94,600
What do they do?
Landscape architects design parks and gardens, from the overall layout of a park to the placement of individual trees. They also work with clients to create custom-made designs, using their expertise in design and their knowledge of local regulations and zoning laws.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Landscape architects often have a degree in landscape architecture or landscape design. Some may have studied environmental science or urban planning. You may need a license to practice in this field.Â
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
These architects work for government agencies or private architectural firms.
What’s the best way to get this job?
You need an undergraduate degree in either landscape architecture, environmental science, or urban planning to become a landscape architect.Â
What’s it like to be a landscape architect?
#1. Environmental Lawyer
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Comparably
- Low Range: $34,720 per year
- High Range: $799,000 per year
- Median Pay: $168,695 per year
What do they do?
Environmental lawyers help clients with environmental concerns, such as:
- Air and water pollution.
- Waste management.
- Waste recycling.Â
These lawyers are the people you call when looking to get a permit for your new construction project.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Environmental lawyers typically have a law degree (J.D.) and a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies or related fields. Some may also have degrees in science or engineering to help them understand scientific concepts related to pollution.
The most important skill an environmental lawyer can have is the ability to explain complex legal issues in ways that anyone can understand.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
They can work for:
- Government agencies.
- Construction firms.
- Manufacturing firms.
- Real estate development companies.
- Private practice law firms.
What’s the best way to get this job?
If you want to become an environmental lawyer, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. You’ll also need to pass the bar exam in your state.
Afterwhich, you contact your network for entry-level opportunities.
What’s it like to be an environmental lawyer?
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Conclusion
We hope this article has given you some insight into what types of environmental gold mines exist for you to discover. These are just a few of the highest-paying environmental jobs.Â
