1

Environmental Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Provide engineering and consulting services for a broad array of environmental projects and clients. This may include performing and/or leading environmental site investigations, engineering analysis ...

Provide engineering and consulting services for a broad array of environmental projects and clients. This may include performing and/or leading environmental site investigations, engineering analysis ...

Environmental Engineer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$65K - $84K/yr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems ...

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Environmental Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$94K

$137.1K

How much do environmental engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental engineer in Chicago, IL is $94,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $111,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an environmental 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 control of water and air pollution. Environmental engineers often design systems for water and air purification, manage hazardous waste, and ensure organizations comply with environmental regulations. Their work helps protect the environment and human health by minimizing the impact of human activities.

What do environmental engineers do?

Environmental engineers research and develop systems and solutions to environmental problems. They have backgrounds in soil science, chemistry, biology, and engineering, which they apply to the production of architectural systems that address air pollution, water conservation, recycling, sustainability, and public health.

What are some common challenges environmental engineers face when working on large-scale remediation projects?

Environmental Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, navigating complex regulatory requirements, and managing unexpected site conditions during large-scale remediation projects. Effective communication with project managers, government agencies, and local communities is essential to ensure compliance and address concerns promptly. Additionally, adapting technical solutions to evolving site data and balancing project timelines with environmental protection goals are frequent aspects of the role.

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

To thrive as an Environmental Engineer, you need a solid background in environmental science, engineering principles, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in environmental, civil, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with modeling software (such as AutoCAD and GIS), environmental impact assessment tools, and professional certifications like the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) or Professional Engineer (PE) license is valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure engineers can design solutions that protect public health and the environment while meeting regulatory and project requirements.

What is the difference between Environmental Engineer vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectEnvironmental EngineerEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in environmental engineering or related field; often licensed as Professional Engineer (PE)Bachelor's or master's in environmental science or related field; no licensing required
Work EnvironmentDesigning solutions, working on projects, often in field and lab settingsResearch and data analysis, primarily in labs or offices
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, government agencies, manufacturing industriesResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consulting

Environmental Engineers focus on designing and implementing solutions to environmental problems, often working on projects that require engineering design and compliance. Environmental Scientists primarily conduct research, analyze data, and assess environmental conditions. While both roles require a background in environmental studies, Engineers typically need engineering credentials and licensing, whereas Scientists focus on research and data analysis. Both roles are vital in environmental protection but serve different functions within the industry.

Is there a high demand for environmental engineers?

Environmental engineers are in high demand due to increasing environmental regulations and the need for sustainable solutions. Job growth is expected to be faster than average, with opportunities in consulting, government agencies, and private industry, often requiring knowledge of environmental laws and engineering tools.

What kinds of jobs do environmental engineers do?

Environmental engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution control, waste management, water and air quality improvement, and site remediation. They often work in consulting firms, government agencies, or industries, using tools like GIS and modeling software, and may require certifications like the Professional Engineer (PE) license.

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:

What job categories do people searching Environmental Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Environmental Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Environmental Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Environmental Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,014 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Environmental Engineer

Rapid Resource Recruiters

Deerfield, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Company Description
A global leader in nitrogen fertilizer manufacturing and distribution, which owns and operates world-scale nitrogen complexes and serves agricultural and industrial customers through its best-in-class distribution system.
Job Description
This position assumes responsibility for development and maintenance of environmental permits necessary to demonstrate compliance with allowable air, land or water pollution levels; maintaining good working knowledge of Federal, State and Local regulations (including: CAA, CWA, RCRA, DOT-HAZMAT, CERCLA, SARA, Army Corps of Engineers); assessing environmental risks and assisting in development of regulatory documentation of results; performance of recordkeeping; maintenance of databases, preparation of reports; performing hazardous waste site inspections; performing environmental compliance and due diligence audits, and recommending appropriate action to management in compliance with regulations.
This position is responsible for making sure that Distribution Facilities is meeting internal and external environmental, health, and safety requirements in all terminals and warehouses. Expediting corrective action requires extensive communication skills and coordination with the Legal Department, Regional Managers (this position has no direct authority over line management), Terminal and Warehouse Superintendents, Technical Services Personnel and Corporate administrative staff. Works under general supervision and follows established procedures. Work is reviewed for soundness of technical judgment and overall adequacy.
The position is also responsible for assisting in compliance with other EHS-related tasks as assigned.
Qualifications
Essential Responsibilities:
Maintains all permits and appropriate reference files of existing installations with their current status with regard to compliance with federal, state and local environmental regulatory laws
Participates in the instruction of operating personnel concerning the organization's environmental objectives. Provides leadership to less experienced engineers and to Supervisors/Superintendents
Maintains EHS management database of facilities, tracks trends and makes recommendations to management on results
Represents DF at regulatory meetings, legal actions, legislative and trade association meetings. Serves as liaison between the organization and regulatory agencies concerned with environmental issues
Conducts TSDF/Special Waste/Solid Waste site inspections and recommends disposal facilities to management. Assists facilities in arranging and preparing waste characterizations and waste profiles
Assists in the performance of audits of the environmental, general safety, and process safety management programs
Assists in the performance of due-diligence audits
Performs other related duties as assigned by Management. May act as lead person or technical advisor on small projects
Travel Responsibilities:
The position requires travel on an as-needed basis. Typically, trips are domestic and require 1-2 overnight stays. Occasional trips may last one week (5 days). On average, 20% of the position's time is spent away from the Home Office.
Additional Information
Equivalent of undergraduate degree in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Management, Occupational Health & Safety, or related field
3-5 years EHS compliance experience (Certification preferred)
General working knowledge of EHS regulations and the applications
Hazardous material handling experience
Must pass CF HAZMAT physical
Extensive Communication skills
Ability to utilize a PC to review regulations and manipulate databases