1

Environmental Justice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Today, SEAS brings together internationally recognized faculty and practitioners who work across a range of areas, including environmental justice, environmental policy and planning, ecosystem ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Environmental Justice information

See Michigan salary details

$32.2K

$58.5K

$85K

How much do environmental justice jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental justice in Michigan is $58,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $69,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is environmental justice?

Environmental justice refers to the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. It aims to ensure that no group of people bears a disproportionate share of negative environmental consequences. Environmental justice professionals work to address and prevent environmental inequalities and advocate for policies that protect vulnerable communities.

What are careers in environmental justice?

Environmental justice, or EJ, is a movement that started in the United States in the 1980s, based on studies that showed environmental hazards disproportionately impacted poor and minority neighborhoods. For example, factories and landfills were shown to be more likely to be built in a low-income community. Federal legislation requires government agencies to enforce protections for all communities against these environmental hazards and help create and maintain a healthy environment to live and work. Careers in this field include non-profit groups who work to clean up affected areas and provide clean water and green space for residents, attorneys who litigate EJ cases, lobbyists who push for new EJ legislation or enforcement of current law, and teaching positions in post-secondary institutions and other environmental organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an environmental justice role?

To thrive in an Environmental Justice role, you need a strong background in environmental science, public policy, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree or experience in advocacy. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS mapping systems, and regulatory frameworks such as the EPA’s environmental justice guidelines is typically required. Outstanding communication, cultural competency, and community engagement skills set exceptional professionals apart in this field. These abilities are crucial for effectively addressing environmental inequalities, building trust with diverse communities, and driving impactful policy change.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in environmental justice roles?

Professionals in Environmental Justice often encounter challenges such as balancing the interests of multiple stakeholders, including community members, government agencies, and private organizations. They may face difficulties with limited resources or data when advocating for policy changes or environmental remediation. Additionally, building trust and fostering effective communication with marginalized or historically underserved communities is essential and can be complex. Overcoming these challenges requires strong collaboration skills, cultural competency, and adaptability to shifting regulatory and community priorities.

What can you do with an environmental justice degree?

An environmental justice degree prepares individuals for careers advocating for equitable environmental policies, working with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or community groups. Common roles include environmental advocate, policy analyst, community organizer, or sustainability coordinator, often requiring skills in research, communication, and understanding of environmental laws.

What is environmental justice work?

Environmental justice work involves advocating for fair treatment of all communities regarding environmental policies and practices, often addressing issues like pollution, health disparities, and access to natural resources. Professionals in this field may conduct research, develop policies, or engage with communities to promote equitable environmental outcomes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Justice jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Environmental Justice jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Environmental Justice jobs in Michigan?

For Environmental Justice jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Environmental Justice jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Environmental Justice jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Environmental Justice jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Environmental Justice job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Justice job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,460 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Environmental Justice Organizer

Clean Water Action

East Lansing, MI

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Clean Water Action is a non-profit focusing on campaigns related to water access, water quality, and environmental justice. With over half a million members nationwide and 160,000 members in Michigan, Clean Water Action's impact is far-reaching. We work to empower people to take action to protect America's waters, build healthy communities and to make democracy work for all of us. Our recent victories include passing a drinking water standard for PFAs in Michigan and funding lead pipe replacement across the state. By joining our team, you will be at the forefront of creating a cleaner, healthier future for all.

Job Description

Right now, Michigan is experiencing a surge in proposed data center developments, despite the protests of local residents all across the state - who have good reason to be skeptical. Data centers consistently promise economic development opportunities that don't materialize. While there are temporary job gains during
construction, data centers have historically created only a few low wage jobs in the long term, while communities pay the price in higher energy bills and threats to water quality. A May 2026 poll found that 77% of Michigan residents support regulations requiring more transparency from data center projects. We need to pause this data center frenzy before more damage is done. That's why we're working to pass a moratorium on data center construction across the state.

Responsibilities of this position include:

  • Ensuring communities are aware of our issues and given the tools to achieve solutions by organizing and fundraising with our field canvass team. 

  • Aiding community members in writing letters or otherwise contacting their lawmakers on these issues.

  • Identifying volunteers who will work with us to hold politicians accountable for their votes on environmental and health related issues.

  • Participating in occasional press conferences, lobby days, and other events.

If you're ready to make a difference in the environmental sector while working in a dynamic and supportive environment, apply now and become a part of our motivated team!

Qualifications

We look for candidates who have strong oral and written communication skills, and who possess good attention to detail. Candidates must possess cultural competence and a commitment to racial justice and equity, and should have an interest in non-profit or campaign work, policy, or politics. Ideal candidates enjoy connecting with people as part of their daily work and are motivated to make real change on these issues. Multilingual candidates strongly encouraged to apply. We do provide extensive training on the job responsibilities and on the issues we cover.

Additional Information

The hours for the work are from 2pm to 10:30pm, Monday through Friday. Pay during our 10-day training program is $16 hourly. Post-training pay is $20 hourly with the opportunity for performance bonuses. We are currently looking for candidates interested in full time, long term positions (4-5 days per week with availability at least through Election Day, November 3rd, 2026) starting immediately. We provide a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, and 401k; opportunities for travel within Michigan and throughout the US; and the potential for long term growth within the organization.

These are in person positions. All staff utilizing the office are required to wear masks while together in indoor spaces. N95 or KN95 masks and sanitizer are provided.

Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund values a diverse workplace. People of color and those from economically disadvantaged communities are particularly encouraged to apply. Clean Water Action is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. This policy covers all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotions, terminations, pay, and the work environment.