As we rise to meet the challenge of averting climate change and finding more effective ways of sustainable development, we’re continuing to see an investment in creating more high-paying environmental jobs.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has predicted steady job growth for “green” occupations, each with salaries higher than the median for all occupations. LinkedIn’s 2024 Global Green Skills Report states that the global green talent pool needs to at least double by 2050 to keep pace with projected demand.
It’s not just the environmental industry that offers a range of opportunities, there’s a wide range of industries, professions and callings with well-paying environmental jobs available to professionals with different levels of expertise and job experiences. In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the highest-paying careers dedicated to improving environmental health and advancing sustainable development.
A few disclaimers first:
- How much money you make in your career will differ based on your geographic location, your education level, level of experience and other variables.
- Listed salary estimates are from March 2025 and use data from the BLS and top job aggregate sites including Glassdoor, Indeed and Zippia. All job growth projections are sourced from either the BLS or Zippia.
- Different sites present different ranges of “average” salaries, so we’ve collected three references for each position for comparison.
15 Highest Paying Environmental Jobs
Environmental Entrepreneur
Average U.S. Salary:
$70,849 to $141,682
Environmental Lawyer
Average U.S. Salary:
$132,377 to $149,000
Energy Manager
Average U.S. Salary:
$92,294 to $157,000
Hydrologist
Average U.S. Salary:
$88,770 to $125,000
Geoscientist / Geologist
Average U.S. Salary:
$84,030 to $110,629
Environmental Engineer
Average U.S. Salary:
$75,718 to $108,000
Environmental Manager / Sustainability Program Manager
Average U.S. Salary:
$67,747 to $102,000
Sustainability Engineer
Average U.S. Salary:
$92,369 to $120,000
Marine Biologist
Average U.S. Salary:
$59,228 to $111,000
Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Average U.S. Salary:
$60,208 to $85,000
Climate Change Analyst
Average U.S. Salary:
$77,387 to $109,000
Agricultural Engineer
Average U.S. Salary:
$68,433 to $115,000
Environmental Health Officer
Average U.S. Salary:
$54,789 to $101,000
Solar Energy Consultant
Average U.S. Salary:
$69,420 to $150,000
Epidemiologist
Average U.S. Salary:
$59,329 to $108,000
1. Environmental Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs create new businesses and products to support unmet needs. With many consumers interested in sustainable products and services, there’s an incredible opportunity for environmental entrepreneurship focused on sustainable development. Startup businesses and non-profit organizations can introduce new approaches to achieve our common goals for sustainability and environmental regeneration.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 6%
- Highest Paying Locations: New York, District of Columbia, New Jersey, Connecticut and Michigan
- Required Education: Though there’s no specific education requirement to become an entrepreneur, many earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field such as marketing or accounting. Entrepreneurs come from a wide range of career paths including engineering, marketing, communication, sales and project management.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Entrepreneurs aren’t usually hired by other organizations but rather seek to create their own businesses. There are helpful resources for environmental entrepreneurs, such as E2 (Environmental Entrepreneurs), Entrepreneurs’ Organization and the Global Entrepreneurship Network.
2. Environmental Lawyer
Environmental lawyers, also known as environmental attorneys or environmental law attorneys, specialize in legal matters related to environmental issues. They represent the people, businesses or even the earth as a whole in matters relating to environmental protection, environmental justice and sustainability. They can work for the government, such as with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or as part of a private law firm or public interest group that has an environmental division.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- $132,377 — ZipRecruiter
- $149,000 — Glassdoor
- $135,155 — Salary.com
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 10%
- Highest Paying Locations: District of Columbia, California, New Jersey, Alaska, Oregon and Massachusetts
- Required Education: All lawyers are expected to earn their bachelor’s degree in law, political science or business and then continue on to law school to obtain their Juris Doctor degree. The attorney will then need to pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law in their state (and any other states they wish to work in).
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included the Environmental Law & Policy Center, Alchemy Legal, Robert Half, the U.S. Department of Justice, the Central Intelligence Agency and the Environmental Protection Agency.
3. Energy Manager
Energy managers, sometimes known as energy modelers or energy engineers, oversee, assess and optimize energy usage within an organization to increase energy efficiency, reduce costs and minimize environmental impacts. They work in many different industries to implement comprehensive energy management strategies for facilities, buildings and industrial plants.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- $157,000 — Glassdoor
- $119,000 — Salary.com
- $92,294 — ZipRecruiter
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 6%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, Vermont, Connecticut, New Mexico, Arizona and the District of Columbia
- Required Education: An energy manager will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in energy engineering or mechanical engineering, with some higher-level positions requiring a master’s degree. Some positions may require additional certification, such as an Energy Manager In-Training (EMIT) or Certified Energy Manager (CEM) certification.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Meta, Pfizer, General Motors, EDF Trading, California State University and New York City.
4. Hydrologist
Hydrologists study and analyze the interactions between water, the surrounding environment and human activities. They study how precipitation impacts river flows or groundwater levels, and how surface water and groundwater evaporate back into the atmosphere. They collaborate with engineers, ecologists, scientists and policymakers to solve problems concerning water quality and sustainable water use, and address challenges related to water scarcity, pollution and climate change.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Slower than the average for all occupations at 1%
- Highest Paying Locations: Maryland, Texas, California, Colorado and Oklahoma
- Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in a physical science or related field such as geology, environmental science and civil engineering. Some positions, especially higher-level or research positions, will require a master’s degree.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Ecocareers, McLane Environmental LLC, Atlas Civil Design and the Lower Colorado River Authority.
5. Geoscientist / Geologist
While the terms “geologist” and “geoscientist” can be used interchangeably, in modern contexts a geologist’s profession is in the field of geology, while a geoscientist can work in a wide variety of fields involving the study of the Earth’s composition. You can find geoscientists working in oil and gas exploration, environmental protection, climate change research and geophysics as paleontologists, seismologists, volcanologists and environmental geologists.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 5%
- Highest Paying Locations: Texas, Alaska, Idaho and Oklahoma
- Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in geoscience or a related field, such as physical science or natural resources. A master’s or doctoral degree may be required for higher-level or research positions. Some positions may also require a state-issued license.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Companies hiring for this position have included Shell Trading, Montrose Environmental Group, Geokinetics, Sandia National Labs and Pioneer Natural Resources.
6. Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers apply science and engineering principles to address environmental challenges, with a focus on ensuring sustainable societal development while protecting and regenerating natural resources. Their key responsibilities are to develop sustainable solutions for environmental issues, including recycling, waste disposal, public health, water and air pollution control and sustainability. Their interdisciplinary approach employs a broad range of principles from engineering, soil science, biology and chemistry, as well as other fields such as hydrology, geology and waste management.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 6%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, Texas, Louisiana, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Alaska and West Virginia
- Required Education: Environmental engineers will require a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Specialized or leadership positions will require a master’s degree in environmental engineering or related fields, such as chemical engineering or civil engineering. Some positions may also require certification, such as an environmental engineer or environmental systems manager.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Companies hiring for this position have included Mountain Research LLC, Environmental Consultants (ECI), Montrose Environmental Group, SpaceX, Portland General Electric and National Engineering and Consulting (NEC Group).
For a more in-depth look at environmental engineering, see our companion blog post: How to Become an Environmental Engineer.
7. Environmental Manager / Sustainability Program Manager
An environmental manager, also called a sustainability program manager, is responsible for overseeing and implementing environmental policies and practices within an organization to ensure that it complies with regulations, promotes sustainable practices and minimizes any environmental impacts. Aside from private companies, environmental managers can also work for the public by overseeing a community’s physical environment to support the continued health and safety of its residents and the environment.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 6%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, Arizona, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas
- Required Education: Environmental managers will need to have a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies or a related field. While a master’s degree isn’t often required, most positions will ask candidates to show 2–4 years of job experience in related fields.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Nesco Resource LLC, Jobot, Wilson Construction Company, T Bailey Inc., RecycleMax.com and GitHub.
Interested in similar career opportunities in environmental management in urban settings? See our companion blog post: 6 Best Urban Planning Careers.
8. Sustainability Engineer
Distinct from environmental engineers, sustainability engineers focus on the development of sustainable products and systems. They work with a team of other engineers to develop ways to minimize waste and pollutants while creating long-lasting, efficient products or systems.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- $109,054 — Indeed
- $120,000 — Glassdoor
- $92,369 — Salary.com
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations (similar to the job growth for environmental engineers)
- Highest Paying Locations: California, Texas, New York, Florida, Colorado and Washington
- Required Education: A sustainability engineer will need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field such as mechanical engineering, civil engineering or agricultural engineering. Some positions may also require professional certifications, such as Certified Sustainable Development Professional from the Association of Energy Engineers.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Lockheed Martin, AspenAerogels, AAMU RISE-Foundation, North American Hoganas and Purolite.
9. Marine Biologist
Marine biologists study marine organisms and how they interact with their ecosystems and may specialize in focused areas such as microbiology, ichthyology or mammalogy. They also study the human impact on marine environments and species to understand how to protect and preserve these environments and resources.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- $111,000 — Glassdoor
- $88,468 — Salary.com
- $59,228 — Zippia
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: As fast as the average for all occupations at 3%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, New York, Washington, West Virginia, Rhode Island and Alaska
- Required Education: All marine biologist positions will require a bachelor’s degree in marine biology or a related field, such as ecology, biology or environmental science. Many positions may also require a master’s degree.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Saltwater Inc., Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Chenega MIOS SBU, the U.S. Department of the Interior and the State of Idaho.
10. Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Environmental scientists, sometimes classified as environmental specialists, are researchers who gather data and conduct analyses to identify and address environmental problems — whether natural or caused by humans — and to develop science-based solutions. They can work in private industry, in education and research facilities or as part of state, local or federal agencies.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 6%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, Washington, Maryland, Massachusetts, West Virginia and Oregon
- Required Education: An environmental scientist will need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related fields such as biology or geology. Some positions may also require a master’s degree and experience in data collection, research, analysis and writing technical reports.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included PG&E Corporation, MNA Environmental, BB&E Inc, the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe and the city of Philadelphia.
For a more in-depth look at the environmental scientist position, see our companion blog post: What Is an Environmental Scientist?
11. Climate Change Analyst
Also known as climatologists, climate change analysts evaluate statistical models and weather dynamics to identify patterns and forecast future climate. Using their findings, they develop strategies and provide policy suggestions to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce emissions and meet greenhouse gas reduction targets.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- $109,000 — Glassdoor
- $77,387 — Zippia
- $78,260 — Salary.com
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 5%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, New York, Alaska, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Nevada and the District of Columbia
- Required Education: A climate change analyst will need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related fields, such as ecology, meteorology or statistics. Most positions will also require a master’s degree and experience in data collection, research, analysis and writing technical reports.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Influencemap, LSA consulting, Emerson Collective, World Resources Institute and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.
For a more in-depth look at the climate change analyst position, see our companion blog post: How to Become a Climate Change Analyst?
12. Agricultural Engineer
Agricultural engineers design, develop and improve systems and equipment to enhance efficiency, sustainability and productivity in agriculture. Their goal is to modernize and improve production and processing while limiting pollution in farming, aquaculture, forestry and food processing. They also research to develop more sustainable agriculture practices, improve safety and reliability of equipment and innovate new uses for crops such as alternative energies and biofuels.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 6%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, Illinois, Delaware, Oregon, Ohio, Nevada, Maryland and West Virginia
- Required Education: Agricultural engineers will need a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering or related fields such as agricultural operations and science or bioengineering. Some positions may require a master’s degree or certification as a professional engineer.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Oxbo International, Iowa State University, Rain for Rent, Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Morning Star Company.
13. Environmental Health Officer
Environmental health officers, also known as environmental health practitioners or specialists, are responsible for protecting public health by addressing environmental factors that can affect well-being. They can work for government agencies, public health organizations or private companies to monitor and regulate various aspects of the environment to prevent and control health hazards. Their goal is to promote a safe and healthy environment for employees and communities.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at around 5–6%
- Highest Paying Locations: Alaska, Washington, Nevada, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Utah, Delaware, New Jersey and Oregon
- Required Education: Environmental health officers need a bachelor’s degree in public health or related fields such as biology or environmental science. Some positions may prefer candidates who have a master’s degree or specific health specialist certifications.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Safety Partners Inc., Vermont State University, NEO Corporation, Sabre Industries, Bonnell Aluminum, Platypus Marine Inc., and Cloverdale Foods Company.
14. Solar Energy Consultant
Solar energy consultants sell products for solar energy companies. They engage with clients through in-person or remote consultations to determine their power needs, estimate costs and discuss solar product options tailored to the size of their homes or office buildings. They can work with residential customers or sell to commercial buildings or larger industrial facilities.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 4%
- Highest Paying Locations: California, Connecticut, Alaska, Vermont, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Ohio
- Required Education: A solar energy consultant will either need a bachelor’s degree in an area like sustainability, engineering or renewable energy management, or extensive experience in solar energy sales, consulting or related roles. Some positions may also require relevant certifications.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Yellowstone Local, Omniya LLC, Dunbar Construction, Bright Home Solutions and Momentum Solar.
15. Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists are public health workers who investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury to find preventable and treatable options. They can work for state or local governments, for universities and research facilities or private industries. They communicate their findings to health practitioners and policymakers to provide warnings, suggest best courses of action and promote effective treatments.
- Average U.S. Salary:
- Projected Job Growth from 2022 to 2032: Faster than the average for all occupations at 27%
- Highest Paying Locations: District of Columbia, Delaware, Maine, California and New Jersey
- Required Education: A bachelor’s degree in public health is required and many positions will also require a master’s degree in public health or a related field such as ecology, epidemiology or biology. A doctorate or medical degree will be necessary to direct research projects.
- What types of companies hire for this role? Organizations hiring for this position have included Emory Healthcare, the Center for Disease Control, Bristol Myers Squibb, Humana and the states of Maryland and Pennsylvania.
Interested in similar career opportunities in public health? See our companion post: 16 Top Career Paths With a Community Health Degree.
Environmental Jobs FAQs
What is the highest-paid environmental job?
The highest-paid environmental jobs include environmental attorney, environmental engineer, energy manager and geoscientist. You can also achieve a high-paying environmental job as an entrepreneur or upper-level manager.
What is the highest salary for environmental science?
While all environmental jobs work with the environment, not all of them are necessarily focused on sustainability. Similarly, while many jobs in sustainability are concerned with the environment, others are focused on economic development, social justice, public health or other interconnected areas. See our overview of the Top 12 Sustainability Careers for more information.
Are there environmental jobs that are sustainable?
While all environmental jobs work with the environment, not all of them are necessarily focused on sustainability. Similarly, while many jobs in sustainability are concerned with the environment, others are focused on economic development, social justice, public health or other interconnected areas. See our overview of the Top 12 Sustainability Careers for more information.
Environmental Jobs and MESH
Not only do we see that green and environmental jobs pay well, but their demand is expected to continue to grow over the coming decades. And that’s not only for these listed occupations but in other related areas such as urban planning, public transportation, ecotourism, environmental policy, eco-design and more.
If you’re looking to advance in a career to promote the causes of sustainability, environmental justice and global health and wellness, then we invite you to explore the University of San Diego’s Master of Science in Engineering, Sustainability and Health (MESH) to learn, work and collaborate with other like-minded professionals
MESH is a supportive and innovative space for students from any discipline who are passionate about co-developing new technologies and programs that will meet the pressing global challenges of inequity, poverty, natural disasters and climate change.
