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Assistant Environmental Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

PROtect LLC

Environmental Engineer

Whiting, IN · On-site

$75K/yr

Environmental Engineer Also Known As: Environmental Compliance Engineer, Air Quality Engineer ... and client stakeholders * Assist with implementation of new environmental regulations and ...

langan

Environmental Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$65K - $84K/yr

Job Responsibilities * Assist with the planning and execution of field investigations by logging ... Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering; * 0-2 years of work-related experience; * EIT ...

langan

Environmental Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Job Responsibilities * Assist with the planning and execution of field investigations by logging ... Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering; * 0-2 years of work-related experience; * EIT ...

WSP

Senior Civil/Environmental Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

We're seeking an engineer with a diverse environmental background to assist in the planning, permitting, execution, and delivery of environmental investigations, remedial design and construction ...

WSP

Senior Civil/Environmental Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

We're seeking an engineer with a diverse environmental background to assist in the planning, permitting, execution, and delivery of environmental investigations, remedial design and construction ...

CRH

Senior Environmental Specialist

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$110K - $115K/yr

We're a trusted and strategic partner to engineers, contractors, distributors, specifiers ... Obtain and assist with maintenance of all environmental permits required for company plants, sites ...

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All JobsEnvironmental Engineer JobsAssistant Environmental Engineer JobsAssistant Environmental Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Environmental Engineer information

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How much do assistant environmental engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant environmental engineer in Chicago, IL is $22.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant environmental engineer?

To thrive as an Assistant Environmental Engineer, you need a solid background in environmental engineering principles, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, GIS software, and regulatory compliance systems—along with certifications such as EIT (Engineer-in-Training)—are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively support projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring environmental projects are completed accurately, safely, and in compliance with regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant environmental engineers in their daily work?

Assistant Environmental Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines, ensuring compliance with complex environmental regulations, and adapting to evolving technologies or field conditions. They may also need to communicate technical information clearly to clients and team members from different backgrounds. Successfully navigating these situations requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Assistant Environmental Engineer vs Environmental Technician?

AspectAssistant Environmental EngineerEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental engineering or related field; some roles may require engineering licensureAssociate's degree or technical certification in environmental science or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and project management; often involved in report writing and analysisFieldwork, sampling, data collection, and site inspections
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, government agencies, consulting companiesEnvironmental service companies, government agencies, research labs

Assistant Environmental Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on planning and analysis, while Environmental Technicians usually have technical certifications and conduct field sampling and data collection. Both roles support environmental projects but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

How much does an assistant environmental engineer make?

In New York City, assistant environmental engineers typically earn between $55,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. The role often involves fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental compliance tasks.

What does an assistant environmental engineer do?

An assistant environmental engineer supports environmental projects by collecting data, conducting research, and assisting with the design and implementation of solutions to environmental issues. They often use tools like GIS and environmental modeling software and may perform site inspections or help prepare reports under the supervision of senior engineers. This role typically requires a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field and may involve fieldwork and data analysis tasks.

Will assistant environmental engineers be in demand?

Assistant environmental engineers are expected to have steady demand due to ongoing environmental protection efforts and infrastructure projects. Employment growth is driven by regulations requiring environmental assessments and sustainable development, and the role often requires knowledge of environmental laws and data analysis tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Environmental Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Assistant Environmental Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Environmental Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,252 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Environmental Engineer

PROtect LLC

Whiting, IN • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Environmental Engineer
Also Known As:
Environmental Compliance Engineer, Air Quality Engineer, Environmental Consultant, Emissions Engineer
Build a Career Protecting the Environment
PROtect is seeking an Environmental Engineer to support environmental compliance programs at large industrial facilities including refineries, chemical plants, and oil & gas operations. This role focuses on helping clients maintain compliance with environmental regulations while developing practical solutions that improve operational performance.
The Environmental Engineer will support programs involving VOC leak detection and repair (LDAR), greenhouse gas emissions tracking, benzene waste operations (BWON), and broader Clean Air Act compliance initiatives. Working alongside experienced environmental professionals, you will gain hands-on experience with industrial operations, environmental regulations, emissions monitoring, and compliance management.
New graduates and early-career engineers will receive extensive training through hands-on field and compliance experience. This role is designed for individuals who are eager to learn, willing to take on new challenges, and motivated to build technical expertise. During the initial training period, employees may spend time working alongside field teams to gain a strong understanding of industrial equipment, emissions monitoring programs, and regulatory requirements. As knowledge and competencies grow, responsibilities will expand to include database management, regulatory compliance support, quality assurance activities, emissions calculations, and environmental program development.
This position is well-suited for recent engineering graduates or early-career professionals seeking to build a career in environmental compliance and industrial operations.
Why PROtect?
At PROtect, you'll work alongside experienced environmental professionals supporting some of the nation's largest industrial facilities. We invest heavily in employee development and provide a clear path for growth within environmental consulting and compliance management.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Professional development and career advancement opportunities
  • Industry-leading training and mentorship
  • Exposure to complex environmental compliance programs

What You'll Do
  • Develop, implement, and improve environmental compliance processes supporting refinery and industrial operations
  • Interpret and apply environmental permits, regulations, and compliance requirements
  • Perform emissions calculations supporting permits, regulatory reporting, and risk assessments
  • Maintain environmental records and compliance documentation
  • Support communication and coordination with regulatory agencies, contractors, and client stakeholders
  • Assist with implementation of new environmental regulations and compliance programs
  • Participate in regulatory inspections, audits, and compliance reviews
  • Identify opportunities for environmental performance improvements
  • Monitor emerging environmental regulations and evaluate potential business impacts
  • Support compliance assurance activities and environmental problem-solving initiatives
  • Manage multiple projects and priorities with varying timelines
  • Develop technical expertise across a broad range of environmental compliance programs

What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering required
  • Chemical, Environmental, Mechanical, or related engineering discipline preferred
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to interpret technical and regulatory documents
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
  • Willingness to work in industrial environments and field settings
  • Active TWIC card or ability to obtain a TWIC card

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering or related field
  • Internship, co-op, or industrial experience
  • Knowledge of environmental regulations, emissions programs, or refinery operations
  • Experience with technical writing, reporting, or data analysis

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This position combines office and field responsibilities within industrial facilities.
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, kneel, and work in industrial environments
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to work at heights up to 300 feet when required
  • Ability to use computers and standard office equipment throughout the workday
  • Ability to communicate effectively with clients, coworkers, and regulatory personnel
  • Travel less than 25% during the first six months of employment

Who Succeeds in This Role?
Successful Environmental Engineers are curious, detail-oriented, and motivated to learn. They enjoy solving technical problems, working with a variety of stakeholders, and developing practical solutions that help facilities maintain compliance while operating safely and efficiently.
If you're looking for an opportunity to launch or accelerate your environmental engineering career while working on meaningful projects that support environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and begin building your career with PROtect.

Apply