1

Environmental Protection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Environmental Protection information

See salary details

$41.5K

$91.4K

$138K

How much do environmental protection jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental protection in the United States is $91,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Environmental Protection roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Environmental Protection often encounter challenges such as balancing regulatory compliance with organizational goals, staying updated on evolving environmental laws, and effectively communicating complex scientific information to non-experts. To address these challenges, it’s important to engage in ongoing professional development, collaborate closely with legal and technical teams, and develop strong communication skills. Building networks within the industry and participating in relevant workshops can also help professionals stay informed and adaptable in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Environmental Protection vs Environmental Compliance?

AspectEnvironmental ProtectionEnvironmental Compliance
Primary FocusPreventing environmental harm through proactive measuresEnsuring adherence to environmental laws and regulations
CertificationsEnvironmental certifications, safety trainingEnvironmental compliance certifications, regulatory training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site inspections, environmental projectsOffice-based, regulatory documentation, audits
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental organizations, industries with environmental impactCorporations, consulting firms, regulatory agencies

Environmental Protection focuses on proactive measures to prevent environmental damage, while Environmental Compliance emphasizes adhering to laws and regulations. Both roles often overlap but serve different strategic purposes within environmental management.

What is environmental protection?

Environmental protection refers to the practices and policies aimed at preserving the natural environment from degradation caused by human activities. This includes regulating pollution, conserving natural resources, restoring damaged ecosystems, and ensuring sustainable development. Professionals working in environmental protection may be involved in monitoring environmental quality, enforcing laws, and promoting public awareness about sustainability. Their goal is to balance human needs with the health of the planet, ensuring clean air, water, and land for present and future generations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Environmental Protection, and why are they important?

To thrive in Environmental Protection, you need a solid background in environmental science, regulatory compliance, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with environmental monitoring tools, GIS software, and reporting systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail help professionals effectively assess risks and engage stakeholders. These skills are essential for ensuring environmental regulations are met and for developing solutions that protect natural resources and public health.

What are the top 12 careers for environmental majors?

Environmental majors can pursue careers such as environmental scientist, environmental engineer, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, sustainability specialist, environmental policy analyst, wildlife biologist, renewable energy analyst, environmental educator, water resource specialist, climate change analyst, and environmental health and safety manager. These roles often require knowledge of environmental regulations, data analysis, and fieldwork, with many positions requiring relevant certifications or advanced degrees.

What skills are needed for EPA jobs?

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) jobs typically require strong analytical skills, knowledge of environmental laws and regulations, and proficiency in data collection and reporting. Technical skills such as environmental sampling, GIS, and familiarity with environmental software are also valuable, along with relevant certifications like environmental technician or scientist credentials.

What is the highest paid environmental job?

The highest paid environmental jobs are often senior roles such as Environmental Directors, Sustainability Managers, or Environmental Engineers with advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically require strong technical skills, certifications, and leadership abilities, and they can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually depending on the industry and location.

What are some careers in environment protection?

Careers in environmental protection include roles such as environmental scientist, conservation officer, environmental engineer, and sustainability specialist. These jobs often require knowledge of environmental laws, data analysis skills, and proficiency with tools like GIS software; certifications such as LEED or environmental degrees can enhance job prospects.
More about Environmental Protection jobs
What cities are hiring for Environmental Protection jobs? Cities with the most Environmental Protection job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Protection jobs? The most popular types of Environmental Protection jobs are:
What states have the most Environmental Protection jobs? States with the most job openings for Environmental Protection jobs include:
Infographic showing various Environmental Protection job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,426 per year, or $44 per hour.

Environmental Protection Specialist

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA • Hybrid

$60K - $92K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

THE POSITION Are you ready for a career where you can help communities strengthen recycling and waste reduction efforts through meaningful environmental work. Join the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as an Environmental Protection Specialist and support programs that encourage responsible waste management. This role allows you to work directly with local officials, review important plans, and contribute to programs that benefit both communities and the environment.

Do not miss this opportunity to enhance your professional skills while contributing to long-term environmental improvements. Apply today to step into a position where your dedication makes a positive difference every day. DESCRIPTION OF WORK This position supports recycling, planning, and waste reduction activities by guiding local officials, reviewing grant materials, and coordinating key programs.

As an Environmental Protection Specialist, you will perform the following duties: Grant Oversight: Review applications, conduct pre-application meetings, prioritize submissions, and coordinate funding recommendations Planning Support: Assist counties and municipalities with developing and updating solid waste management plans Technical Assistance: Provide guidance on recycling, resource recovery, waste minimization, and household hazardous waste programs Program Coordination: Work with regional and central staff to support effective recycling and waste reduction activities Compliance Review: Evaluate plans, registrations, and facility activities to ensure alignment with statutory requirements Record Management: Maintain tracking systems for grants, recycling programs, and municipal waste plan updates Interested in learning more. Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description. Work Schedule and Additional Information: Full-time employment Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.

Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 3 days per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Norristown.

The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview. Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $60,538.00 (before taxes)

You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices. REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: One year of experience as a journey-level specialist in a waste management program; or Two years of experience in environmental protection and a bachelor's degree with major course work in biology, chemistry, or in a field closely related to environmental protection.

A master's degree with major course work in any of the fields closely related to environmental protection may be substituted for one year of the required experience; or Any equivalent combination of experience and training which affords the applicant the required knowledges and abilities. Special Requirement: This position requires possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Other Requirements: You must meet the PA residency requirement.

For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines. You must be able to perform essential job functions. How to Apply: Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position.

Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable

Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted. Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted.

Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information. Veterans: Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S

7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals)

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date. The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania.

The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. EXAMINATION INFORMATION Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position.

No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam). Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions. Your score is valid for this specific posting only.

You must provide complete and accurate information or: your score may be lower than deserved. you may be disqualified. You may only apply/test once for this posting.

Your results will be provided via email.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787