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Environmental Compliance Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Compliance Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Environmental Compliance Manager Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid) Compensation: $100,000-$145,000 base + Performance Bonus About the Opportunity We're partnering with a growing environmental and ...

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Environmental Compliance Manager information

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$43K

$93.3K

$149.5K

How much do environmental compliance manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental compliance manager in the United States is $93,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges an environmental compliance manager faces when implementing new regulations across multiple sites?

Environmental Compliance Managers often encounter challenges such as varying local and federal regulations, differences in site infrastructure, and resistance to change from operational teams. Ensuring consistent compliance across all sites requires strong communication and training skills, as well as the ability to interpret and adapt policies for different environments. Building collaborative relationships with site managers and staying updated on regulatory changes are key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What is an environmental compliance manager?

As an environmental compliance manager, your primary responsibilities include managing special waste and conducting ecological inspections. Typically dealing with regulatory agencies, you investigate environmental findings and interpret the impact so that plans can go into action. Other duties entail that you are in charge of regulations, track waste programs to make sure they maintain legal standards, and ensure companies and organizations follow the laws in place to protect the environment. You also plan, support, and direct programs to train employees to be compliant with the required practices.

What does an environmental compliance manager do?

An Environmental Compliance Manager is responsible for ensuring that an organization follows all environmental laws, regulations, and standards. They develop and implement policies to minimize environmental impact, monitor compliance with regulations, and conduct audits or inspections. They also provide training to staff, prepare required reports, and serve as a liaison with regulatory agencies. Their goal is to help organizations operate sustainably while avoiding legal penalties or environmental harm.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental compliance manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Compliance Manager, you need in-depth knowledge of environmental regulations, risk assessment, and compliance auditing, typically supported by a degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with compliance software, environmental management systems (EMS), and certifications such as Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) or ISO 14001 Auditor is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting regulations and coordinating with diverse stakeholders. These abilities ensure regulatory adherence, minimize environmental risks, and help organizations maintain sustainable and lawful operations.

What is the difference between Environmental Compliance Manager vs Environmental Specialist?

AspectEnvironmental Compliance ManagerEnvironmental Specialist
CertificationsEnvironmental Management Systems (EMS), ISO 14001, OSHAEnvironmental Certifications, such as Certified Environmental Specialist
Work EnvironmentOversees compliance programs, manages teams, interacts with regulatory agenciesConducts site assessments, data collection, and environmental monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageIndustries with strict environmental regulations, manufacturing, energyEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sites

The Environmental Compliance Manager focuses on developing and overseeing compliance programs, ensuring organizations meet environmental regulations. In contrast, the Environmental Specialist primarily conducts assessments, collects data, and supports compliance efforts. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but the Compliance Manager has a broader managerial and strategic focus.

What cities are hiring for Environmental Compliance Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Environmental Compliance Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Compliance jobs?

The most popular types of Environmental Compliance jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Environmental Compliance Manager jobs?

The top employers for Environmental Compliance Manager jobs are:

What states have the most Environmental Compliance Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Environmental Compliance Manager jobs include:

Infographic showing various Environmental Compliance Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,255 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Environmental Compliance Manager

Workspire

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Environmental Compliance Manager

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)

Compensation: $100,000–$145,000 base + Performance Bonus


About the Opportunity

We’re partnering with a growing environmental and engineering consultancy seeking a senior environmental leader to drive environmental due diligence and EHS compliance initiatives across industrial, commercial, and real estate projects.


This role blends technical depth with business strategy and would be ideal for someone who is entrepreneurial, client-facing, and experienced in managing complex environmental assessments across multiple sites and transaction types. You’ll lead Phase I ESAs, conduct environmental compliance audits, support regulatory programs, and advise clients on environmental risk, legacy liabilities, and remediation pathways.


If you’re energized by high-impact work that blends technical expertise with business development and client leadership, this position offers meaningful influence and growth potential.


You’ll Do

  • Lead environmental due diligence initiatives including Phase I ESAs and multi-site portfolio assessments
  • Conduct EHS compliance audits, health and safety reviews, and regulatory evaluations
  • Identify environmental risks, liabilities, and compliance gaps, providing strategic findings and recommendations
  • Support real estate transactions, mergers, acquisitions, and redevelopment efforts
  • Oversee permitting, monitoring, and reporting across air, wastewater, stormwater, and hazardous materials programs
  • Provide environmental consultation to industrial and commercial clients, translating technical issues into business decisions
  • Manage proposals, scopes, budgets, and schedules from pursuit through delivery
  • Build and maintain client relationships; identify and secure new opportunities
  • Lead, mentor, and support project teams across offices and service lines
  • Participate in industry conferences and continuing education
  • Travel up to 20%


What We’re Looking For

  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, health, or related field (Master’s preferred)
  • 10+ years of experience in environmental due diligence, compliance, or regulatory programs
  • Experience in regulatory closure and remediation preferred
  • Strong understanding of federal and state environmental regulations (air, wastewater, stormwater, hazardous waste, SWPPP/SPCC, EPCRA, TRI, etc.)
  • Proven ability to assess diverse property, industry, and transaction types
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to present findings to clients, regulators, and stakeholders
  • Demonstrated success in business development and client growth
  • Strong multitasking, prioritization, and project coordination skills
  • 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER preferred


Why This Role Stands Out

  • High-visibility leadership role impacting due diligence and compliance service lines
  • Strategic business development opportunities across public and private sectors
  • Opportunity to influence client strategy and environmental risk decision-making
  • Cross-disciplinary collaboration across engineering, remediation, and design teams
  • Strong benefits including medical, HSA contribution, 401(k) match, PTO, and professional development


Workspire Insight

At Workspire, we partner exclusively with organizations that prioritize people, purpose, and long-term growth. Every role we represent is vetted for leadership quality, advancement potential, and cultural alignment because where you work matters.


EEO Statement

Workspire and our client partners are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.