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Environment Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Safety & Environmental Engineer provides technical safety and environmental expertise for renewable energy construction projects including solar and battery energy storage ...

The Safety & Environmental Engineer partners closely with project managers, field leadership, subcontractors, and corporate safety teams to implement safety programs, conduct field oversight, and ...

Position Summary The Safety & Environmental Engineer provides technical safety and environmental expertise for renewable energy construction projects including solar and battery energy storage ...

Safety Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Position Summary The Safety & Environmental Engineer provides technical safety and environmental expertise for renewable energy construction projects including solar and battery energy storage ...

Civil Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Our team works with local communities on a wide range of civil, municipal, and environmental projects. We are looking for a Professional Engineer or Engineer in Training who would work with CAD ...

Staff Engineer

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Fehr Graham is a fast-growing Midwest engineering environmental firm looking for a motivated Staff Engineer, who is eager to learn and work on everything from municipal engineering to environmental ...

Staff Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Fehr Graham is a fast-growing Midwest engineering environmental firm looking for a motivated Staff Engineer, who is eager to learn and work on everything from municipal engineering to environmental ...

Showing results 41-60

Environment Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$93.9K

$137K

How much do environment engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for environment engineer in Chicago, IL is $93,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $111,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an environment engineer?

Environmental Engineers are professionals who use principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems. They work to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control. Environmental Engineers often design systems for water treatment, waste management, and pollution reduction to protect human health and the environment. They may also help organizations comply with environmental regulations and conduct environmental impact assessments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environment engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Engineer, you need a solid background in environmental science, engineering principles, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in environmental, civil, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, GIS software, and adherence to EPA regulations or certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing sustainable solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance, and effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

What exactly do environment engineers do?

Environmental engineers develop solutions to environmental problems by designing systems for waste management, pollution control, and water treatment. They analyze environmental data, ensure compliance with regulations, and often use tools like GIS and modeling software to assess environmental impact. Their work supports sustainable development and public health efforts.

What is the difference between Environment Engineer vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEnvironment EngineerEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental engineering or related field; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field; certifications like EPA Lead Renovator are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning solutions, managing projects, and conducting assessments in offices, labs, or field sitesCollecting samples, conducting tests, and assisting in field investigations
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, government agencies, industrial companiesEnvironmental service companies, government agencies, research labs

Environment Engineers focus on designing and implementing environmental solutions, often requiring higher education and licensing. Environmental Technicians support fieldwork and data collection, typically with less formal education. Both roles are vital in environmental projects but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are some common challenges environment engineers face when balancing regulatory compliance with project goals?

Environment Engineers often navigate the complexities of meeting regulatory standards while ensuring projects remain efficient and cost-effective. Balancing environmental protection goals with the practical needs of construction, manufacturing, or municipal projects requires careful planning and ongoing communication with both regulatory agencies and project stakeholders. Staying updated on evolving environmental laws and translating them into actionable project requirements can be challenging but is crucial for project success. Proactively addressing these challenges helps build trust and ensures smoother project delivery.
Infographic showing various Environment Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,940 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Environmental Engineering Section Manager - Environmental Services (Multiple Locations)

Burns & McDonnell

Chicago, IL • On-site

$110K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

Description
The Environmental Engineering Section Manager is responsible for the managerial direction and leadership of the section and resources within a global practice or regional office. This includes supporting and executing business strategy, developing high performance teams, and promoting the Burns & McDonnell culture, values and mission. The Section Manager will lead the section in a dynamic and profitable manner based on Burns & McDonnell's core values of client satisfaction, commitment, dedication, integrity, safety and overall outstanding service.
  • Provide leadership to the team; direct and coordinate work assignments and review performance to ensure the efficient, cost-effective utilization of staff.
  • Responsible for profitable growth of the section; ensuring staff levels, staff loading, and staff assignments meet project requirements while maintaining billable goals.
  • Implement, apply and support company, global practice and/or regional office programs and initiatives; successfully navigating and managing change within the section.
  • Provide expert level technical, design guidance and support.
  • Achieve stated targets and standards for financial performance.
  • Manage department budget and expenditure of funds.
  • Prepare and present workload and monthly financial reports to global practice or regional management and applicable project managers.
  • Responsible for collaborating with business development managers, business line leads, project managers, and proposal production staff on proposals to secure work for staff.
  • Responsible for the recruitment, development, training, and retention of staff.
  • Responsible for conducting performance evaluations for department staff.
  • Provide leadership, guidance, and instruction to the department.
  • Responsible for interpreting the organization's policies, purposes, and goals to staff.
  • Responsible for overall QA/QC process adherence.
  • Enforce compliance with company and site safety policies.
  • Responsible for diversity initiatives.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, construction or related degree from accredited program and 5 years related professional experience in design and/or project management.
  • Previous leadership and/or management experience is preferable.
  • Must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to clearly and effectively present complex information to all levels of employees, management, and clients.
  • Position requires the ability to thoughtfully and positively influence, lead, and manage change.
  • Must possess strong project management skills and a strategic perspective.
  • Must be proficient in the use of computer software (i.e., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Compensation
$110,000.00-300,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Environmental Engineering
Primary Location US-IL-Downers Grove
Other Locations US-MI-Detroit, US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time
Req ID: 260234
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-GS #ENS N/A

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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