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Air Quality Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Type Full-time Description About You You are a principal level air quality scientist or engineer who is a leader with a desire to help grow and direct a national air quality practice. Though you ...

Job Type Full-time Description INTERA is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Air Quality Engineer/Scientist to join our growing Air Quality Services team. This is an exciting opportunity ...

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Air Quality Scientist information

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How much do air quality scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for air quality scientist in the United States is $34.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges air quality scientists face when conducting field measurements?

Air Quality Scientists frequently encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and logistical hurdles when collecting field data. Working in remote or urban environments can also pose safety and access issues. Additionally, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of air sampling methods is crucial, as is adhering to regulatory standards and coordinating data collection with other team members or agencies. These challenges require adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and close collaboration with colleagues to ensure reliable results.

What is the difference between Air Quality Scientist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectAir Quality ScientistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in environmental science, chemistry, or related field; certifications like AAI or AQB are commonBachelor's or Master's in environmental science, ecology, or related field; similar certifications may apply
Work EnvironmentField sampling, laboratory analysis, data interpretation, often in urban or industrial settingsFieldwork, research, policy development, often in diverse environments including urban, rural, and natural areas
Industry UsagePrimarily in air quality monitoring agencies, environmental consulting firms, government agenciesGovernment agencies, research institutions, consulting firms, NGOs

While both roles focus on environmental health, Air Quality Scientists specialize in monitoring and analyzing air pollutants, whereas Environmental Scientists have a broader scope including soil, water, and ecosystems. The roles often overlap, but the Air Quality Scientist's expertise is more specific to air quality issues and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an air quality scientist?

To thrive as an Air Quality Scientist, you need a strong background in environmental science, chemistry, or related fields, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree and relevant work experience. Familiarity with air monitoring instruments, data analysis software like GIS or statistical tools, and certifications such as the Certified Air Quality Professional (CAQP) are commonly required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals interpret data and share findings with stakeholders. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing air pollution, ensuring regulatory compliance, and informing public health initiatives.

What does an air quality scientist do?

An Air Quality Scientist studies the composition and quality of the air to understand pollution levels and their impacts on health and the environment. They collect and analyze air samples, use models to predict pollution trends, and develop strategies to reduce air pollution. Their work often supports government regulations, public health initiatives, and environmental protection policies. They may also communicate their findings to policymakers, industries, and the general public.
More about Air Quality Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Quality Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Air Quality Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Quality Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Air Quality Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Air Quality Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Quality Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Air Quality Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Quality Scientist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Air Quality Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,807 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Air Quality Scientist - Engineer

Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.

Fort Washington, PA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

As an Air Quality Scientist / Engineer for Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC), you will evaluate and present information regarding atmospheric emissions from proposed processes and equipment in support of state and federal permit applications. Job duties will include performing engineering calculations, compiling permit application documents, meeting and coordinating with clients to obtain and understand project information, communicating with agency personnel, and evaluating control technologies for client facilities. 

At CEC, our employees enjoy a flexible/hybrid work schedule. Our comprehensive benefits package includes bonus recognition, based on performance, as well as participation in our employee stock ownership program. Additionally, we conduct mid-year and end-of-year performance reviews and provide goal-setting opportunities.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work for Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) in the U.S. without sponsorship.


  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Meteorology, or related fields
  • 0+ years' consulting, compliance, or industry experience
  • Previous internship preferred
  • Experience with atmospheric emission inventory calculations, air permit application preparation, and pollution control technologies
  • Knowledge of New Source Review procedures
  • Familiarity with air compliance needs for a variety of industries
  • Strong written/verbal communication, problem-solving and organization skills
  • Must have computer literacy, including basic programming, word processing, spreadsheet skills, and knowledge of Microsoft Office software package

We have experts! CEC is consistently ranked as a Top 500 Design Firm and Top 200 Environmental Firm by Engineering News-Record. We are looking for people who enjoy using their education and experience to solve difficult technical problems and work on interesting projects. You can accomplish this while working with a team of professionals who are equally motivated to provide high levels of service to our clients and to teach you along the way.

We have support! We have a variety of Employee Resource Groups, including CEC Community – focused on giving back to the communities in which we work; CEC Ignite – focused on helping professionals early in their careers to develop their pathway; CEC iDEA – focused on inclusion, diversity, equality, and acceptance; and CEC Women – focused on creating internal and external opportunities for women to network and leverage professional experience!


We care about our people! People and Culture are two of the five elements of our strategic plan. When you care about your people, they will want to grow a career with you – that is our goal. CEC offers you a small-firm work environment with large-firm opportunities. Not only will we help you develop professionally, but we will also provide an opportunity to become an owner of the firm and share in its success.

CEC offers a matching 401(k); profit sharing; a performance bonus; company stock; medical, dental, and vision insurance; short and long-term disability; tuition assistance; professional development; and work-life balance.

CEC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or promotion based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis or characteristic prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law.

THIRD PARTY RECRUITERS

If CEC has not expressly requested recruiting services or contractually engaged with you for recruiting services on a specific position, any resumes or candidate profiles sent to CEC shall be considered unsolicited.  Therefore, any such submissions will be considered property of CEC, with no associated fees due to your firm.